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Damen Shipyards Group, a Dutch shipbuilding giant, has been tasked with bringing to life a new multi-purpose accommodation support vessel (MP-ASV) for Windcat, a part of CMB.TECH, said to be one of the world’s largest listed, diversified, and future-proof maritime groups, with a fleet of about 250 vessels. An option to build five additional ships of this type is also on the Dutch shipbuilder’s table.
While unveiling Innovation Series, described as a new class of offshore support vessels during the Offshore Energy Exhibition and Conference (OEEC) in Amsterdam, Damen revealed its deal with Windcat for a new MP-ASV that entails the option to construct five more vessels of this type. The shipbuilder plans to begin construction of the first MP-ASV in February 2026, with delivery expected in 2028.
These ships will be built at the Ha Long Shipyard in Vietnam. While the latest vessel order follows the collaboration between the duo during the development of the Elevation Series commissioning services operations vessels (CSOVs), the MP-ASVs are described as a completely new vessel type, built on the success of the previous designs, with increased capabilities and efficiency.
The new ship series will be based on the proven design of the CSOVs, and in many cases, call on the support of the same suppliers. However, the MP-ASVs are larger at 102m x 20m and offer increased deck space of 750 square kilometers, subsea crane capacity of 150 tonnes, and the ability to launch and recover remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
According to the Dutch giant, these ships will combine a large open deck, sporting a subsea crane, with fuel-efficient operations and comfortable, high-quality accommodation for personnel working in the offshore energy sector for extended periods.
Joost van der Weiden , Damen’s Sales Manager, underscored: “Our collaboration with Windcat is a good example of the way that Damen works. Together with clients who share our values and ambitions, we seek to innovate next generation solutions, setting new standards in safety, efficiency and sustainability.