Southern Contracts provided and installed the appliances at the Cammell Laird Shipyard in Birkenhead, commissioned by Extreme E to transport its freight, including the all-electric SUVs named ODYSSEY 21, around the world. Southern Contracts’ work was part of the multi-million euro renovation, which saw a comprehensive mechanical overhaul and full refurbishment of the interior, including the galley and laundry, as well as fresh livery and branding for the new owners.

St. Helena was the last Royal Mail Ship bringing post and freight from the UK to the island of St Helena in the South Pacific. She was only decommissioned as a mail ship following the installation of an airstrip on the island, meaning that freight no longer has to be transported by sea.

Adam Elphinstone, MD of Southern Contracts said: “Extreme E is the brainchild of Founder and CEO Alejandro Agag, to highlight to the world the devasting effects of climate change and human activity on the planet, through world-class sport. We have a long and happy relationship with Cammell Laird so when they approached us to work on this latest project, we were absolutely delighted to be a part of something so unique.”

The relaunch of the St. Helena was marked by Alejandro Agag, who sprayed a celebratory personalised bottle of Moët champagne over the ship’s hull to toast the start of her new life.

Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E said: “I feel extremely proud. The departure of the St. Helena marks the start of her new voyage: Extreme E’s first season is now officially underway! My dream is that St. Helena becomes the Calypso of the 21st century.”

He added, “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the crew who have worked so hard on the St. Helena to prepare her for her new journey, and all the team at Cammell Laird port here in Liverpool – we wouldn’t be at this point without all their efforts.”

 

The St. Helena arrived in Saudi Arabia for the Desert X Prix - the amazing inaugural Extreme E event – and is now en route to Senegal, before going to Greenland, then down to the Amazon and then further south to the final destination of the season in Tierra del Fuego, Argentine Patagonia.

For more information about Southern Contracts’ products and services on offer, contact its expert team of technical staff to provide guidance and advice through every aspect of your purchase and ongoing commitment to service, please telephone 03301 222888 or visit www.southerncontracts.co.uk.