CTruk Boats formally handed over the first new craft built at its River Colne production facility in Colchester when the latest MPC22 offshore wind farm service vessel (WFSV) was officially named by owner CWind at the Seawork show in Southampton.
Utilising the unique CTruk flexible pod system that allows the vessel’s payload to be reconfigured in a matter of hours, the MPC22 is based on a proven workboat design.
CWind Artimus, named by Jemma Eaton, Commercial Director of CWind, is the first of the two latest boats being built by CTruk for CWind, augmenting a fleet of more than 20 already in service with CWind.
CTruk Chief Executive Officer Andy White explained: “This latest vessel extends our long association with CWind. The MPC22 is a proven workhorse in the offshore wind sector and provides unique operational flexibility through our patented moveable wheelhouse and flexible deck pod system. While other operators need months to refit and reconfigure their vessels, CTruk vessels can achieve this in just eight hours.
“It allows operators to employ the boats in multiple roles which has been a key feature in ensuring that they are in constant demand.”
The MPC22’s versatility can extend from transferring 12 technicians in ultimate comfort or removing its passenger pod to make use of 72m² of deck space for equipment transfer, carrying cranes, transfer systems and amphibious rescue vehicles such as the CTruk Avenger.
The boat comprises a 22m composite twin-hull with 7.6m beam and 1.25m draft. It has a 20 tonne flexible payload capability and the ability to carry 24,000 litres of fuel, an invaluable function in servicing round 3 zones.
The innovative boat also features the Volvo IPS system for optimal bollard pull and service speeds, significantly increasing the already renowned fuel efficiency of CTruk’s composite catamarans.