AWARDS 2024 | Best Large Crewboat – NOS Impresser – Northern Offshore Services
Anyone who has sailed around the north of Scotland can tell you about the often dismal and rough conditions that frequently apply there. As with local fishing boats, any work or passenger boats doomed to operate there must be strong, seaworthy and very seaworthy.
This versatile, Swedish-owned and Danish-flagged aluminium catamaran fast crew/supply vessel is certainly all of that. Impeccably fitted out, its interior is supremely comfortable and its high-tunnelled, fine lined hull design makes her fast, economical and smooth riding.
Built rugged to service offshore wind turbines, the boat is fitted with quad drives that enhance its speed, manoeuvrability and economy. NOS Impresser is certainly very impressive.
"What makes Impresser special is the combination of cutting-edge design, uncompromising performance, and the extensive experience behind every decision we make," David Kristensson, CEO of Northern Offshore Services' parent company the Northern Offshore Group, told Baird Maritime.
"A lot of thought and effort has gone into creating a modern, safe, and comfortable workspace because we believe that a well-designed vessel should serve both the mission and the crew.
"Our experience in the industry allows us to fine-tune every detail, ensuring that Impresser performs at the highest level while also providing a top-tier environment for those who operate it."
Kristensson added that the vessel is built on a future-proof platform, designed to adapt to the evolving demands of the maritime industry. It is ready for conversion to hybrid, fully electric, or renewable and alternative fuel solutions, without the need for major rebuilding.
"That flexibility ensures long-term sustainability without compromising on performance."
Kristensson said that, in designing Impresser, Northern Offshore focused heavily on crew feedback and operational experience, particularly around improving daily workflows and overall well-being on board. Every detail—from layout to systems—was carefully considered to make life onboard more comfortable and more efficient for the crew.
"Another key takeaway was related to the integration of our new propulsion system, which significantly improves energy efficiency. While every commissioning comes with its challenges, Impresser benefited from our experience and close collaboration across teams. The result is a smarter, more sustainable vessel, both in terms of performance and the people who operate it."
In Kristensson's view, one of the most significant trends currently impacting vessel ownership and operations is the growing need to to accelerate the so-called "green transition".
"Governments around the world are increasing their focus on sustainability, and since we operate in a green industry, this opens up major opportunities, but of course, it also brings new challenges," he told Baird Maritime.
"In Europe, for example, the regulatory landscape is becoming increasingly complex. While many of these regulations aim to drive environmental progress, they can also create hurdles, especially when competing with regions that don’t face the same level of oversight."
The rise of protectionist policies adds another layer of complexity, as countries try to balance support for local industries with the need for open, international collaboration.
"Despite these challenges, we remain optimistic. Demand for sustainable solutions and offshore services is growing, and we believe our positioning and experience allow us to meet that demand effectively."
Kristensson believes the Scandinavian workboat industry is entering a phase of great opportunities and driven by innovation and a commitment to sustainability. As environmental regulations evolve, operators will be challenged to think smarter, but these also open the door to innovative solutions like hybrid propulsion, electric propulsion, and alternative fuel vessels.
"In the coming years, I see the industry embracing these changes with enthusiasm, as we push the boundaries of energy efficiency and performance," Kristensson told Baird Maritime.
"It's all about staying ahead, adapting to new technologies, and creating vessels that are not only environmentally responsible but also highly efficient and reliable. The future looks bright, and we’re excited to be part of it, driving the industry toward a greener, more sustainable tomorrow."
For a list of the 2024 "Best Of" award winners, please click here.
