EMS Offshore Service has agreed a newbuilding vessel contract wtih Damen shipyards for a new edition in the Shoalbuster line of vessels, the Shoalbuster 2711
The Shoalbuster range are shallow-draught workboats, and Damen announced development of the 2711 model in June 2019.
Shoalbuster 2711 design specifications comply with new MLC regulations stipulating additional accommodation capacity. The width of the existing Shoalbuster 2709 has been increased by 2 m, increasing the accommodation capacity from six to seven crew.
The vessel has a 24-m load line length. The extra beam increases the aft deck allowing space for two 20-ft containers, while enhanced stability increases the lifting ability of the deck crane to 5.5 tonnes at 18.5 m.
Damen claims the new vessel is more buoyant than its predecessor, carries more and heavier equipment on the increased deck space and the extra stability allows it to handle bigger and heavier anchors.
EMS Offshore’s custom adaptations will take place at the build yard, Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld. Damen is also offering after-sales servicing and spare parts support. EMS Offshore will use the vessel primarily for transport, installation and maintenance works in shallow waters such as the Baltic and North Seas.
EMS Offshore managing director Michaela Buscher said “EMS Offshore Service is currently expanding its activities in the Baltic area. Our shareholders’ companies have worked with Damen for many years already. Accordingly, when we were looking for a strong, flexible tug boat for a project with a new customer, Damen’s Shoalbuster 2711 was the right choice for our purposes.”
Damen sales manager for north, west and south Europe Remko Bouma said “We are very pleased EMS Offshore has approached Damen to purchase this Shoalbuster 2711. Our ability to deliver such a versatile vessel at such short notice was a significant factor in their decision and we are confident that its characteristics make it ideal for operations in the North and Baltic Seas.”
The vessel is set to be delivered in January 2020.
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