It is important that a windfarm support vessel is able to transport personnel and cargo safely, even in rough seas. Thanks to its low water-plane surface, the Austal Tri Swath, the fourth Austal contracted vessel for the Turbine Transfers fleet, has that ability and is less prone to instability.
“ Being able to transport wind turbine technicians comfortably in the rough sea conditions and over longer distances is the key requirement, and we have produced the solution to that need ,” explained Andrew Bellamy, Austal Chief Executive Officer.
Austal, the Australian shipbuilder, is installing two MTU 10V 2000 M72 engines into the vessel, each with power outputs of 900 kW and facilitating speeds of up to 23 knots. The 27.4 meter trimaran will take up service in November 2012. Between May 2012 and early 2013, a further ten catamarans propelled by MTU Series 2000 engines are to be supplied by the Marketex and South Boats Special Projects shipyards to Offshore Wind Services, Seacat Services and Sure Wind Marine.
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Shipbuilding Tribune Staff, April 9, 2012; Image: mtu