In response to positive feedback from offshore suppliers, Damen Shipyards Group has decided to build three new vessels of the Fast Crew Supplier (FCS) 2710 Hybrid type on stock at the Damen Antalya yard in Turkey.
The vessels will be available for fast delivery for operators in the quickly emerging offshore renewable energy production. The hybrid propulsion system of these crew transfer vessels (CTVs) enables zero emission operation in wind farms and in harbours. Damen believes that fast and stable crew transfer vessels that are able to operate at rough seas have become a necessity in offshore energy production. In the quickly developing offshore wind industry, vessels for crew and supplies need to be versatile, stable and sturdy, to be able to manoeuvre in between the turbine shafts and to offer safe and fast transfers from and to shore stations.
Damen has developed the twin axe bow FCS 2710 for working at offshore wind farms with ease and comfort. The catamaran design offers stability together with deck space. Both slender hulls have the axe bow design, with a very sharp and deep bow to eliminate slamming in and over waves. The hull design in combination with a two-speed gearbox minimises the vessel motions and maximises thrust, increasing the operability, safety and comfort of crew transfer operations.
Built in aluminium, the vessels with an overall length of 26.8m and 10.5m beam offer passenger capacity of 24 persons for transfer to offshore workplaces and 90m2 of deck space. The FCS 2710 can reach speeds up to 25 knots and maintain high speed in rough seas as the axe bow design significantly reduces slamming and pitching in waves.
Based on a proven design, the FCS 2710 offers possibilities for customisation with cranes, deck equipment, lay-out of deck and interior spaces as well as the number of passengers seats and crew accommodation able to be altered on demand. Damen offers alteration to meet specific operational demands, as well as lifelong service and repair and financing options.
Alongside the three FCS 2710 Hybrid vessels under construction, Damen is working on the development of an all-electric E-FCS 2710 supply vessel, which is expected to be available during 2024.
