Singapore shipbuilder Strategic Marine has delivered two new aluminium catamaran crewboats in a series to UK operator Manor Renewable Energy (MRE). Designed by UK naval architecture firm BMT in compliance to Bureau Veritas-class rules, Manor Vulcan and Manor Victor were developed to meet the increasing demands of the offshore wind industry for enhanced vessel capabilities with a reduced environmental footprint and hybrid drive options.
Each crewboat has an LOA of 27.1 metres, a moulded beam of 8.9 metres, a maximum draught of 1.72 metres, seating for up to 30 technicians, a crew of three, and foreward and aft cargo decks with a total area of 81.7 square metres. The two decks on each crewboat can transport payloads totalling 30 tonnes.
Each vessel can reach a maximum speed of 24 knots courtesy of two Caterpillar C32 engines that each produce 1,081 kW at 2,300 rpm driving fixed-pitch propellers. MRE said the crewboats' propulsion is configured to allow for hybrid operations in the future if requested by clients. A selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system is also fitted to ensure compliance with IMO Tier III standards.
Strategic Marine said the crewboats' hull design maximises waterline length, thereby improving operational efficiency across a wide range of loading conditions and reducing emissions and fuel consumption.
The bridge deck layout on each crewboat has been enhanced to provide improved visibility from the helm, while an ergonomic layout was incorporated to increase the comfort of the entire bridge crew. Using feedback from vessel operators and customers, Strategic Marine optimised the internal arrangements for improved comfort and workflow while ensuring ample storage space, comfortable sleeping areas, and business class seating.
The accommodation spaces on each crewboat include one single cabin and four double cabins. The interiors were furnished to comply with the Infectious Disease Control biosafe notation.
A dynamic positioning system ensures safe crew transfers under mild to moderate sea conditions while a Palfinger Marine knuckle boom crane aids in the loading and unloading of cargo.
| Manor Vulcan & Manor Victor | |
| SPECIFICATIONS | |
| Type of vessel: | Crewboats |
| Classification: | Bureau Veritas |
| Flag: | UK |
| Owner: | Manor Renewable Energy, UK |
| Designer: | BMT, UK |
| Builder: | Strategic Marine, Singapore |
| Hull construction material: | Aluminium |
| Superstructure construction material: | Aluminium |
| Deck construction material: | Aluminium |
| Length overall: | 27.1 metres |
| Beam: | 8.9 metres |
| Draught: | 1.72 metres |
| Deadweight tonnage: | 30 |
| Main engines: | 2 x Caterpillar C32, each 1,081 kW at 2,300 rpm |
| Propulsion: | 2 x fixed-pitch propellers |
| Maximum speed: | 24 knots |
| Crane: | Palfinger Marine |
| Other equipment installed: | Selective catalytic reduction system |
| Accommodation: | Single cabin; 4 x double cabins |
| Crew: | 3 |
| Passengers: | 30 |
| Operational area: | UK |