Damen Shipyard’s Group fast crew supplier (FCS) 2710 has received an approval in principle (AiP) from classification society ABS
To secure approval, Damen modified the design of its standard FCS 2710 to meet US requirements. Waterjets driven by engines that comply with US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations have now been incorporated on the model.
The 19-m long vessel is suited to the operating conditions on the US Atlantic coast, and the company said it expects the vessel’s size will ensure it continues to operate during the winter period, when smaller vessels will need to power down or remain in harbour.
The FCS 2710’s design draws on its predecessor, the FCS 2610, however Damen has increased the size of the design to offer greater flexibility, deck space, tank capacity, increased comfort and additional accommodation.
The FCS 2710 features increased tunnel height above the water, enabling it to operate in waters with over 2 m significant wave height for a considerably increased uptime. The vessel also features Damen’s Sea Axe hull form – here in ‘Twin Axe’ formation – to deliver safety and comfort in rough waters. The Sea Axe reduces vertical accelerations by enabling the vessel to glide through the waves.
Damen manager design & licences Mark Honders said, “We are very pleased the FCS 2710 has received this ABS approval in principle. The vessel has performed very well in European operations and has also received orders from Asia. We feel very confident in its suitability for operations in North American projects also. Damen has the goal of becoming the world’s most sustainable shipbuilder and we are very proud to contribute to the production of renewable energy around the world with our products.”
Damen said the AiP is a step towards its next-generation crew transfer vessels being used to support the developing US offshore wind industry.
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