Marine energy support vessel operator Seacat Services has signed a multi-million pound contract to build a next-generation catamaran for offshore wind.
Seacat Weatherly, designed by Southampton-based naval architect Chartwell Marine, is scheduled for completion in March 2020.
The vessel will be constructed on the UK south coast by Isle of Wight-based companies Diverse Marine and Aluminium Marine Consultants.
The catamaran has been developed by Chartwell Marine with input from Seacat Services, offshore wind farm operators and turbine manufacturers.
The contract includes an option for a further vessel for the Seacat Services fleet.
Seacat Weatherly will be able to accommodate 24 industrial personnel, alongside four crew.
According to Seacat Services, the vessel will have one of the largest foredecks on the market, for carrying more cargo, and has also been optimised for safety, with designated walkways, handrails and safety sliding rails positioned for safe, repeatable crew transfer.
Skippers will benefit from a unique wheelhouse configuration that provides total control and complete visibility during complex logistical and crew transfer operations, said the company.
Seacat Services managing director Ian Baylis said: “Despite ongoing uncertainty in Westminster and Brussels, the offshore wind sector has repeatedly demonstrated its capacity to get on with the job in hand – and, frankly, faced with rising demand for high quality vessel support, this was an order that couldn’t wait.”
Chartwell Marine managing director Andy Page said: “The Chartwell 24 is a vessel design that has been developed by the industry for the industry, with involvement throughout the offshore wind supply chain.”