PREPARING FOR THE SENLAC

Visit by the MV Hengist to test the car ramp

By Derek Longly

Prior to the entry into service of MV Senlac in 1973 the facilities at Newhaven had to be tested to ensure they were suitable, with particular emphasis placed on whether or not the existing car ramp was adequate so that the new ship would fit against this without problem.

To check this aspect Sealink sent the MV Hengist from the short sea routes to Newhaven, since she was a virtually an identical sister ship to the Senlac, to ascertain that all would be well.  It proved to be quite a festive occasion as at the time the Hengist was the largest Channel ship to have been brought into Newhaven and many people watched as she arrived and was brought up against the car ramp.

I was fortunate enough to be present and to be granted permission to climb up onto the car ramp structure from where I was able to obtain a good view as the Hengist was brought astern into the berth.  I also took the opportunity to record the scene from various positions around the harbour and two of my pictures depicting the event are shown below.

I am unable to find a record of the exact date when the Hengist arrived but hopefully someone will be able to provide that detail.

It was 7th June 1972. - Andy, Editor.