This week Incat Crowther announced the launch of 'ASP Tyne' and 'ASP Thames', two 18 metre Catamaran Wind Farm Service Craft.

'ASP Tyne' and 'ASP Thames' were constructed by Topaz Marine at their Abu Dhabi yard in the United Arab Emirates, and will be delivered to ASP Holdings in the UK. 'ASP Tyne' and 'ASP Thames' are the latest in a lineage of successful wind farm service craft from Incat Crowther, offering excellent efficiency and seakeeping, combined with practical and rugged operation.

The vessels have dual cargo zones forward and aft, allowing maximum operational flexibility. The aft cargo deck can carry a 10 foot sea container, typically fitted with support equipment for the vessel’s turbine maintenance operations. The forward cargo deck carries supplies and parts to be transferred to the turbines.

A Palfinger PK4501M crane is mounted to the port side of the forward cargo zone to facilitate transfer of this cargo to the turbines. Handrails are also fitted forward, allowing for safe transfer of personnel. The vessels are fitted with a rugged replaceable bow appendage featuring vertical d-shaped fenders.

Substantially stronger than the industry standard, this appendage allows 'ASP Tyne' and 'ASP Thames' to dock against turbines in rough conditions without risk of structural damage. Inside, large suspended seats accommodate 12 personnel, with a galley and mess space opposite. Two wet rooms are provided aft, one with lockers and a bench to allow personnel to change out of wet clothes, whilst the other houses a WC and shower. Overnight accommodation is provided in the hulls for the four crew.

'ASP Tyne' and 'ASP Thames' are fitted with Scania DI16 42M 503kW engines. The vessels are driven by 5-bladed propellers. They have a maximum speed of 26 knots, and a service speed of 23 knots.

'ASP Tyne' and 'ASP Thames' are designed and built to Det Norske Veritas’ new Wind Farm Craft rules, and will enter service under UK’s MCA code.

Additional wind farm specific vessels are currently under construction to Incat Crowther designs at several shipyards and are due to be launched shortly. For shipyards and operators looking to enter this market with reduced technical barriers, Incat Crowther offers wind farm vessels in aluminium kit form.