Japanese operator welcomes catamaran crewboat to fleet

Japanese operator Tokyo Kisen has taken delivery of the first vessel in a new series of bespoke catamaran crewboats that will service Japan's offshore wind sector.

The NK-classed JCAT Hibiki II and its yet unnamed sister have been developed to comply with strict local regulations. The design of the crewboats has been future-proofed, with each vessel to begin its operational life carrying 12 technicians but with the flexibility to increase its capacity to 24 as Japan’s regulatory framework evolves.

The main deck features a large mess area, two toilets and an internal storage and change area. Technicians are carried in safety and comfort thanks to a resiliently mounted superstructure.

The upper deck features an elevated, spacious wheelhouse, as well as a private mess and pantry. The lower decks contain two twin cabins, a workshop space and a utility room.

The crewboat's operational capabilities are also enhanced by the inclusion of a specialised bow design that reduces impact forces when the vessel is at wind turbine boat landings. A large forward deck meanwhile provides a dedicated space for transporting cargo to offshore wind farms.

Two Yanmar diesel engines drive controllable-pitch propellers to deliver speeds of up to 28 knots.