The vessels
Not standard builds
These were not standard builds. Both vessels were developed around an innovative hull form incorporating a new-generation bulb bow, designed to reduce resistance and improve seakeeping in the mixed sea states common in offshore supply and standby operations. The propulsion system was diesel-electric throughout, giving the vessels flexibility in power management and significantly better fuel efficiency compared to conventional mechanical drive arrangements.
Power and propulsion
6,620 kW, diesel-electric
The power management system was state-of-the-art at the time of build, integrating four Bergen C25:33 L6 diesel engines producing a combined 6,620 kW with four ABB generators and two Ulstein Aquamaster Azipull AZP120 azimuth thrusters, each rated at 2,200 kW. The vessels were also fitted with three Kamewa Ulstein thrusters for precision manoeuvring. On sea trials, the ships reached 16.2 knots, against a service speed of approximately 14.8 knots.
Hull and capacity
Built for range and flexibility
At 93.9 metres overall length and 21 metres beam, the vessels offered around 1,085 square metres of deck area with a deadweight of approximately 4,900 tonnes and a deck load capacity of 3,200 tonnes. The tank arrangement was designed for maximum operational flexibility, covering fuel oil, fresh water, ballast water, drill water, ORO, liquid mud, brine, base oil, methanol, and dry bulk, enabling the ships to serve a wide range of offshore supply requirements in a single mobilisation.
Class and positioning
DNV, DP2, NOFOS 2005
Each vessel was classed by DNV and certified for dynamic positioning to DYNPOS AUTR standard, meaning the DP2 system could maintain position under extreme wind and weather conditions without reliance on anchoring. The ships also met NOFOS 2005 requirements for oil recovery operations and carried standby capacity for 250 survivors, supported by two large MOB boats.
Accommodation was arranged for a crew of 25 across single and double cabins, finished to a high standard with attention to comfort during extended offshore rotations.
Combined project value across both hulls.
Combined engine output -- four Bergen C25:33 L6 diesels.
Overall length; 21 m beam; ~1,085 m² deck area.
Deck load capacity; 4,900 t deadweight.
Sea trials top speed against ~14.8 knots service speed.
DP2 certification -- position-keeping in extreme conditions without anchoring.
Programme management
A wide supply chain
The project required close coordination across a wide supply chain spanning propulsion, deck equipment, electronics, firefighting, ventilation, refrigeration, piping, electrical systems, and interior fit-out, with the management team responsible for maintaining schedule, specification compliance, and budget discipline across both builds simultaneously.