The first in Windcat’s new series of commissioning service operation vessels (CSOVs) has completed sea trials and is almost ready for delivery.
Windcat Rotterdam (pictured) is the first of Damen’s new Elevation Series of CSOVs, designed to be future-proof offshore wind maintenance and support ships.
The hydrogen-ready CSOVs have been designed in close collaboration with Windcat and CMB Tech.
Damen, Windcat and CMB Tech first announced their intention to develop and build a series of offshore wind farm support vessels together in 2022.
After an initial contract for two ships, Windcat increased the order to six vessels, with the last contract being signed mid-2024.
All six CSOVs in the Elevation Series are being constructed by Damen at Ha Long Shipyard in Vietnam.
With the completion of the sea trials, the Windcat Rotterdam vessel is now entering the final stages before delivery this summer.
A Damen spokesperson said: “After more than a week of rigorous testing at sea, we’ve validated every element of this advanced ecosystem to ensure all systems work in perfect harmony.
“The result? A vessel that sets new standards for onboard comfort, operational performance and future-proof technologies.”
The new CSOV is 87 metres long and 20 metres wide. It can accommodate up to 120 people on board, remaining at its offshore location to provide in-field technical and maintenance support for up to 30 days at a time.
Damen said particular attention has been given to provide offshore personnel with the most comfortable conditions to live and work during their time on board.