Windcat, a leading European offshore personnel transfer company and a part of CMB.TECH, has placed an order for six Elevation Series Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) in collaboration with Damen Shipyards.
To ensure the technical and crewing management of these vessels, Windcat has chosen Anglo-Eastern as its partner.
Strengthening the Anglo-Eastern and CMB.TECH Relationship
Windcat had previously entrusted Anglo-Eastern Technical Services (AETS), Anglo-Eastern’s technical consulting division, with overseeing the construction of these six advanced CSOVs back in October 2021.
These vessels will now come under Anglo-Eastern’s management upon delivery, solidifying the relationship between Anglo-Eastern and the CMB.TECH group, particularly with Windcat.
The ship management agreement for the first vessel was officially signed on July 19, 2024, in Hong Kong.
This partnership marks a significant stride in Anglo-Eastern’s strategy to expand its technical consulting and fleet management services within the offshore renewable energy sector.
CSOVs: Specialized Vessels for Offshore Wind Farms
CSOVs are purpose-built vessels designed to remain in offshore wind farms for extended periods, up to 30 days.
They provide essential maintenance materials and comfortable, hotel-style accommodation for up to 90 technicians.
Windcat’s CSOVs, measuring 87 meters in length and 20 meters in width, will be powered by hydrogen, making them the first vessels of their kind to utilize this clean energy source.
A total of six vessels will be constructed at the Ha Long Shipyard in Vietnam and operated by Windcat, with the first CSOV expected to be operational in 2025.
These vessels feature walk-to-work (W2W) gangways with active motion compensation for improved efficiency.
Cutting-Edge Design and Features
Equipped with four azimuth thrusters (both stern and bow) and a motion-compensated crane, these CSOVs are engineered to adhere to the highest operational and safety standards.
Additionally, they offer modern living quarters for personnel, ensuring comfort and connectivity through STARLINK-supported network systems.
Commitment to Decarbonization
Aligned with CMB.TECH’s dedication to reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry, these vessels will be fitted with dual-fuel hydrogen engines, leading to reduced environmental impact.
This pioneering effort highlights the shared vision of Anglo-Eastern and CMB.TECH in driving the maritime industry towards a sustainable future.
Leadership Quotes
Bjorn Hojgaard, CEO of Anglo-Eastern, expressed his gratitude for Windcat’s trust in Anglo-Eastern, emphasizing the potential of this partnership to pave the way for more environmentally responsible maritime solutions.
Willem Van Der Wel, Managing Director of Windcat, echoed this sentiment, stating that the collaboration with Anglo-Eastern will enable Windcat to expand its horizons and deliver exceptional service and innovation to a new vessel type on a global scale.
Comprehensive Management and Expertise
This collaboration entails the complete management of the CSOVs by Anglo-Eastern, backed by a team of seasoned industry experts with extensive experience in offshore operations and vessel management.
The AETS team contributes valuable expertise in project oversight, technical consulting, and fleet optimization, ensuring the seamless delivery and operation of these cutting-edge, hydrogen-powered vessels.