Herman Sr turns to Damen for versatile multipurpose vessel

The MPV 4916 the company intends to acquire will be the first in a series of vessels combining the qualities of the Damen Shoalbuster and Multi Cat, providing a high level of flexibility and versatility.

The new vessel will have multiple means of positioning, such as spud poles, four-point mooring and DP2 dynamic positioning, and will be able to beach when required, maintaining position in all circumstances, in shallow and deep water. 

A 16-m beam will ensure the vessel has the stability to accommodate an array of equipment hosted by the vessel’s deck. This includes a movable, hydraulic A-frame and two knuckleboom cranes, the aft crane featuring an active heave-compensated winch. 

The MPV 4916 will provide accommodation for up to 34 people. Safety and comfort of those on board will be assured with the vessel’s SPS code accreditation, and full MLC2006 compliance. The MPV 4916 also has COMF-3 notation thanks to its low levels of noise and vibration. 

The MPV 4916 is designed to undertake a range of work scopes, including transporting cargo and maintenance duties for the offshore energy sectors, along with diving support operations, pipeline work, and cable maintenance and repair. 

The new vessel can also embark a 14-m carousel containing approximately 350 tonnes of cable and undertake cable-laying operations in areas larger vessels cannot operate in. This includes, with its beaching capability, connecting cables to shore. 

The design is also future-proofed. Initially, the MPV 4916 will be powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system with a Damen Marine NOX reduction system to ensure compliance with IMO Tier III requirements. 

The vessel is also prepared for conversion to full electric propulsion in the future and has the necessary space to convert to the use of dual-fuel methanol engines.

Damen Shipyards design and proposal engineer John Krielaart said, “This is a boat that ticks all the boxes. The MPV 4916 allows for the use of a single platform and crew to undertake the widest possible range of workboat operations. The vessel can also be reconfigured for change of use, or for project specific tasks, offering added value.”

Construction of the MPV is due to commence in early 2025 at Albwardy Damen in Sharjah, with delivery anticipated in 2027.