Arklow Marine Services has delivered an offshore wind farm service vessel (WFSV) to Alicat, which intends to operate the vessel across the UK’s offshore wind farms, according to Irish media.
Irish shipbuilder has built the vessel called Gardian 18 in 30 weeks ‒ on schedule and on budget. The vessel, worth EUR 2.3 million, is the third of its type to be delivered from the shipyard to Alicat in the last three years.
“The Gardian 18 is the latest in a series of vessels from Arklow for Alicat and is currently for sale, which is an advantage of not having to fund the vessel whilst under construction and is ready to go straight to work,” said Steve Thacker, Managing Director of Gardline, mother company of Alicat .
When it enters operation by the end of November, the Gardian 18 will mainly be used to transfer service personnel to and from offshore wind farms, as it fulfills the requirements of high specification and unique design of vessels intended for servicing offshore turbines.
Arklow Marine Services Director Billy Tyrell emphasized the significance of the growing offshore wind industry, in which the shipyard is well positioned to grow along. He also expressed hope that Irish offshore projects will develop in a way in which they can create jobs for coastal towns and bring businesses to companies like Arklow.
The Gardian 18 can reach a sprint speed of 30 knots and a service speed of 25 knots. It is capable of accommodating 12 personnel and 2 crews.
Offshore WIND Staff, November 14, 2013; Image: Arklow Marine Services