Dutch shipbuilder and ship designer Damen has launched the first ever Renewables Service Vessel (RSV) 3315, a new type of vessel developed in close cooperation with Scottish company Delta Marine.
The first in the new series was officially christened Voe Vanguard at Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld.
A week later, Voe Vanguard was off to her first assignment on DONG Energy’s Walney Extension offshore wind farm in the UK.
The Damen RSV 3315 is said to be able to undertake all duties normally expected of a Multicat but has the addition of a spacious, unobstructed deck, DP2 and dedicated 4-point mooring. The 33-metre vessel has a 42-tonne bollard pull.
“We were particularly interested in having a DP2 capability. This vessel is suitable for offshore wind but also for tidal projects, where she can stay in position using her DP in some pretty strong currents,” David McNaugthan , Delta Marine General Manager, said.
Delta Marine and Damen adapted the traditional Multicat design by moving the wheelhouse forward and leaving the aft deck open. Additionally, it was important to make sure the vessel was under the 500-tonne mark to keep the costs down, Damen said.
“The vessel is diesel electric, and has four azimuths, with a large stern thruster. She is also very flexible, with a shallow draught of only 2.6 m. The two aft azimuths can swing up into the hull and we can easily switch from DP1 to DP2 mode,” McNaugthan said.
In addition, Voe Vanguard has two cranes, one of which has a capacity of 15 tonnes with an outreach of 20 metres. She can also accommodate crews of up to 18.
Voe Vanguard went off to work straight away for the Walney Extension wind farm and then she will be exhibited at the Seawork in Southampton. After that it is straight back up the coast for another project.
“We already have work into August and beyond,” McNaugthan said.
Jos van Woerkum, Managing Director of Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld said: “We have been working on this vessel together since 2013. Delta Marine gave us a sketch and outlined their requirements and I think Damen has built exactly what they wanted. I think the Renewables Service Vessel 3315 has the potential to be the next success for Damen once she proves herself in the market.”
Photos: Damen