Hoist Liftruck's Neptune Series M270 marina forklift.

Marina operator Dean & Reddyhoff has ordered the largest Neptune Series marina forklift ever imported into the UK for the new Portland Marina in Dorset.

The Neptune Series M270 marina forklift, manufactured by US-based Hoist Liftruck and supplied by UK importer Shoreline Storage Solutions, can lift boats weighing 27,000lbs (12 tonnes) over 42 feet (12.8 metres). It can stack boats to 54 feet (16.5 metre) high and with a negative lift to 14 feet (4.3 metres).

The forklift will be used to service a new undercover dry stack storage facility at Portland Marina. The marina is part of the London 2010 Olympic & Paralympic Games sailing event venue. It is also the largest single marina built in the UK in 15 years. The dry stack facility can store around 170 powerboats.

Dean & Reddyhoff operations director James Beaver says the marina operator wanted to ensure Portland's facilities were "first class" because it was a high-profile site.

"When it came to ordering a forklift, we thoroughly researched the market for the best machine for the job. The Hoist M270, with the ability to lift vessels in excess of 12 tonnes, means we will be able to cater for larger boats than any other current UK dry stack provider," he says.

Delivery of the forklift is expected in September 2008. The value of the order was not disclosed.

Dean & Reddyhoff operate three marinas on the south coast of the UK: Haslar Marina, East Cowes Marina and Weymouth Marina. It is currently building a new 600-berth marina in Portland Harbour.

Delivery of the truck is expected in September 2008, in time to be used for winter lift-out and storage ashore at Portland during winter 2008/09.