Danish crew transfer vessel operator World Marine Offshore (WMO) has contracted Norwegian shipbuilder Umoe Mandal to build two crew transfer vessels (CTVs), which will be used by Orsted.
In addition WMO has entered into bareboat charter agreements for two similar vessels that are owned by the Umoe Group.
Three of the four vessels will go on contract with Orsted.
Umoe Mandal chief executive Tom Svennevig said: “Our Wavecraft vessels are unique as they are heave compensated and probably the most efficient crew transfer vessels in the world.
“They can transfer personnel in wave heights up to 2.5 metres and are capable of 40-45 knots service speed.
“World Marine Offshore and Orsted are the most experienced users of these air-cushioned catamarans.
“To receive further orders from the companies who are most familiar with this vessel type confirms their confidence in the vessels’ performance and quality.”
WMO has ordered two newbuild, second generation Wavecraft vessels of the Sprinter 28 design from Umoe Mandal.
In addition, WMO has entered into four-year bareboat charter agreements for the two existing Wavecraft vessels Umoe Firmus and Umoe Rapid.
The vessels’ owner, the Umoe Group, is Umoe Mandal’s majority shareholder.
Upon completion, the two newbuild vessels will enter service for Orsted on wind farms located on UK’s east coast.
Both vessels will be delivered from Umoe Mandal in 2023.
Mikkel Windolf, senior product innovation manager at Orsted, said: “Technology is constantly evolving and changing. However, vessel designs have remained relatively stable in the offshore wind business until now.
“The SES (Surface Effect Ships) design is for the specific sites where transit distance and time suits.
“The SES vessel is signalling a change for the offshore market to move towards more specialised product that is aimed at solving unique challenges.”