Ulstein Verft has started the year by performing the launching and berthing operations of 2 new sister ships, designated yard 322 and 323. These are service and commissioning vessels (CSOVs) intended to support the construction and maintenance of offshore wind farms.
Technical characteristics of the vessels
Both vessels are based on the SX222 designdesign, developed by Ulstein, which incorporates TWIN X-STERN® technology. This system improves fuel efficiency and stabilizes the vessel during offshore operations, crucial aspects for the safety and comfort of crews in demanding environments such as wind farms. They also include features such as:
- Hybrid propulsion system with batteries to reduce emissions during dynamic positioning operations.
- They are “green methanol ready,” meaning their engine can be adapted to use this low-carbon fuel in the future, making the ships more sustainable.
- A motion-compensated gangway that allows the safe transfer of personnel and cargo from the ship to the base of a wind turbine, even in rough seas.
- A lifting tower and 3D crane for lifting heavy loads and components.
- They are intended as flexible base platforms for Operation and Maintenance (O&M) and construction support tasks.
Shipyard’s capacity and long-term vision
With this double launching and docking operation, Ulstein Verft reaffirms its technical and logistical ability to execute complex projects simultaneously. The choice of hybrid systems and the preparation for alternative fuels alternative fuels demonstrate the company’s commitment to marine solutions adapted to the global energy future.
These CSOVs represent not only a breakthrough in marine engineering, but also a clear response to the growing demand for sustainable services in the offshore wind sector.
Source and photo: Ulstein Verft