UK offshore support services company Mainprize Offshore has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Singapore shipbuilder Strategic Marine for the construction and delivery of six crewboats in a series. The MOU also covers the optional acquisition of up to six additional vessels.
Each crewboat will have a semi-SWATH catamaran hull design that combines enhanced seakeeping with reduced fuel consumption and emissions. The improved seakeeping ability significantly reduces heave, pitch, and roll, allowing crew transfers to be safely conducted even in wave heights of two metres.
Design work on the two crewboats was provided by UK-based naval architecture firm Walker Marine Design. Secondary duties will include transportation and research support.
Each vessel will also have all-aluminium construction, a length of 26 metres, and capacity for 24 technicians and up to 30 tonnes of cargo on a 110-square-metre deck. The propulsion will deliver a speed of over 30 knots and a bollard push of 25 tonnes.