Damen announced that Windwave Workboats will be the launching customer of the Twin Axe Fast Crew Supplier (FCS) 2008.
The Twin Axe FCS 2008 is a smaller version of Damen’s successful FCS 2610 which launched in 2011 and has subsequently become the industry standard for the offshore wind market, given its capability of operating further offshore in rougher weather conditions, while ensuring safe and comfortable transfers for those on board.
Based in Penzance, Cornwall, Windwave Workboats has been providing offshore wind farm support and crew transfer services to the renewable energy industry since 2008. This latest addition is the company’s first Damen vessel.
Windwave Workboats Commercial Director, Peter Scriven, comments: “The Damen FCS 2610 was a game changer when it was first introduced and kick started the trend for larger boats and is still the preferred large boat option, as can be seen by their demand in the North Sea. Our clients have had a lot of success in using them; however it is too large for some operations. In response, Damen have now developed the FCS 2008 which makes it the obvious choice for our applications.”
The company wanted to have accommodation on board to overnight in the harbour, so two cabins with three bunks are being installed in the hulls. As well as this, the railing on the foredeck has been changed making the foredeck more spacious. A crane is also being placed on the foredeck. The FCS 2008 can also carry 2 x 10 ft containers, on the stern and bow.
The FCS 2008 will officially launch at Seawork International in June. Being built at Damen Shipyards Den Helder, three more vessels are available from stock, the first from end-April.
Press Release, April 30, 2014; Image: Damen