BMTa leader in naval architecture and marine engineering, has unveiled its latest innovation: a 48-meter Service Operating Vessel (SOV). This design marks a milestone in the maritime industry, strategically positioning itself between crew transfer vessels (CTVs) and traditional SOVs, offering a more cost-efficient alternative to meet operational requirements in the increasingly competitive offshore market.
This new SOV is distinguished by its methanol-ready design, which allows it to operate with an optimized machinery configuration and hull shape. Based on a dynamic diesel-electric platform, the vessel promises not only improved operational efficiency but also a marked decrease in environmental footprint, the designer said.
Optimization and sustainability in SOV design
The vessel incorporates a SWATH (Small Waterplane Area Twin Hull) hull design that facilitates operations in adverse sea conditions, significantly improving maneuverability and operating time. This specific hull design also contributes to minimize noise and vibrations, thus improving the onboard experience.
For the comfort of its crew, the 48-meter SOV has a 30-meter motion-compensated gangway designed to facilitate safe and comfortable access. Accommodating 40 technicians and 16 crew members, the vessel is equipped with individual cabins that include entertainment centers, as well as common areas such as lounges, a gym and sauna, ensuring a high level of comfort during extended stays at sea.
Innovation and the future of “offshore operations”.
Now, in terms of technological capability, the vessel is designed to support autonomous operation, featuring an adaptable remotely operated vehicle (ROV) bay and a dedicated control room for ROV management. It also offers the flexibility to incorporate unmanned surface vessels (USVs) of up to 5 meters and has an allocated space for a secondary vessel of 8.5 meters.
Alex Blake, chief naval architect at BMT, commented on the launch,“In an ever-evolving sector such as offshore marine operations, BMT’s 48-meter SOV demonstrates our unwavering commitment to innovation and leadership in vessel design.” Blake stresses that this vessel not only addresses current market needs but also represents a move into the future of offshore operations, setting new benchmarks in terms of operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
This launch reflects BMT’s proactive approach to the design of advanced maritime solutions, reiterating its position as a pioneer in the development of technologies that respond to both the current demands and future challenges of the maritime and offshore sector. With this SOV design, BMT not only responds to the growing demand for more efficient and sustainable operations but also sets a new standard in the industry, promoting a more responsible approach to marine resource exploration and exploitation.
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