UK-based BAR Technologies and Chartwell Marine have secured approval-in-principle (AiP) from class society ABS for the design and construction of the innovative BAR 30-m crew transfer vessel (CTV)
AiP is an important milestone on the route to a class-certified, Jones Act-compliant CTV for the US market. The companies also hope to secure AiP for a version of the design aimed at the offshore oil and gas market.
BAR, with the support of Chartwell, has developed a 30-m CTV using FOSS (foil optimised stability system) technology to enhance seakeeping and manoeuvrability while reducing vertical acceleration by up to 70% in 2.5-m wave heights, compared to conventional vessels.
While offering greater levels of availability in rough seas than a conventional design, the BAR 30-m CTV is also very fuel efficient. The company claims it demonstrates up to a 50% reduction in fuel consumption at 15 knots, compared to a conventional design, keeping emissions low and in line with stringent EPA Tier 4 guidelines.
The initial vessel will be closely followed by a 50-m variant capable of 45 knots maximum speed and 30 knots in a 3-m high sea without exceeding vertical acceleration limits. The 40-passenger boat with a similar hullform and FOSS technology is aimed at the offshore oil and gas industry, where it could be used to replace helicopter transfer for workers in the Gulf of Mexico.
The new design will work in partnership with the proven vessels in the Chartwell 24 range, including a the ‘Right Whale’ variant. Alterations to the hullform of the latter have been made to adhere to the legislation in place that protects the migration route of the Right Whale on the east coast, along with optimised propulsion configurations to meet EPA Tier 4 emissions standards.
Securing AiP assures clients that the designs will be built in-line with specific US requirements. As part of the AiP process, they met stringent criteria in ABS’ Rules for Building and Classing High Speed Craft 2020.
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