Dutch outfit Safeway has won a contract from Heerema Marine Contractors to supply a Seagull type motion compensated gangway system for the Normand Baltic vessel for work in the Taiwan offshore wind sector.
The contract is Safeway’s first for Heerema, and it is also the first time the Seagull system with 3D crane function will be deployed to transfer personnel and cargo for an offshore wind farm in Taiwan.
The rental contract for the 28-metre-long walk-to-work gangway will start during the first half 2021 for an initial term of up to 168 days, with an option for a possible extension.
Safeway chief executive Wijnand van Aalst said: “In recent months the Safeway Seagull gangway has undeniably demonstrated its ability to outperform other systems in a series of offshore wind farm projects, during both commissioning and maintenance campaigns.
“We have already reached record transfer speeds for the safe and efficient transfer of people and cargo with this type of gangway, and we are excited to be partnering with Heerema for the very first time and for the opportunity to prove to them our high-quality service.
“Obviously we are honoured that Heerema has opted to make use of Safeway Seagull’s unique features such as roll compensation, height adjustment, zero impact bumpering/hover mode and counterweight, ensuring unrivalled workability throughout the year.
“Not only are we adding a new country to our portfolio, we are also gaining further access to the Asia Pacific region after successful jobs in Australia and Malaysia.
“Walk to work operations are becoming increasingly important in this region and with our Safeway Seagull gangway type we can ensure maximum efficiency of operations for our clients.”
Heerema has a contract for the transport and installation of 111 foundations and the installation of two large offshore substations at a wind farm off Taiwan.