Dutch shipbuilder Damen has delivered the first of its new class of multi cat (MuC) workboats, the 2309, to the UK-based crew transfer operator High Speed Transfers (HST).
The new mid-range model, named HST Hazel , was built at Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld in the Netherlands and will initially be based out of HST’s home port of Swansea, supporting clients in Wales and southwest England.
Alongside providing crew transfer business, the twin propelled 23.4 metres long vessel will enable HST to offer its clients workboat services such as marine logistics and general contracting, the company said.
The vessel features Volvo Penta engines which are expected to significantly reduce emissions and can be converted for IMO Tier III compliance. The crew cabins are upgraded with satellite television and high-speed interconnectivity with fleet system and VSAT.
Additional equipment upgrades include a five-tonne pull winch and a heavy duty crane with a lifting capacity of 25 tonnes at 5.8 metres outreach. On the aft deck a tugger winch with 12 tonnes of pull has been installed along with an A-frame with a plow for cable laying.
“The acquisition of the HST Hazel is just the beginning of our strategy of extending our services to become a total solutions provider. We are doing this in response to the preference of our offshore renewables customers for a single point of contact for all their offshore support,” said Tom Nevin , Managing Director of HST.