The first of two service operation vessels being built for the offshore wind industry was launched yesterday at Norway-based Ulstein Verft shipyard. The vessel features a newly developed X-STERN hull line design.
Built for German-based ship manager Bernhard Schulte Offshore, the ship will be working at the Gemini wind farm in the Netherlands for Siemens Wind Power Service.
Both vessels are based on the SX175 design from Ulstein and equipped with X-BOW and X-STERN in order to improve the sea characteristics when the vessels are positioned alongside the wind turbines during transferral of service technicians from the vessel through a heave compensated gangway.
Featuring a length of 88 meters and a breadth of 18 meters, the vessel can reach a maximum speed of 13.5 knots and accommodate 60 people.
The service operation vessel made its first voyage from Poland to Norway in January this year.
Image Courtesy: Ulstein