VESSEL REVIEW | Platform support RIB trio for Saipem’s Saudi Arabia operations

UAE builder Asis Boats has delivered three new rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) in a series to offshore operator Saipem Netherlands for use in the waters off Saudi Arabia.

The RIBs are custom-built to the client’s specification to make them suitable for platform support duties. Each has a length of eight metres, an FRP-reinforced hull, and a specially developed foam tube composed of a combination of closed cells memory foam and air, allowing redundancy and reducing the service requirement in order to increase productivity and minimise downtime.

The craft are certified under category “B” for offshore use with 15 passengers onboard. Navigation is possible even in rough seas.

With the imposed restrictions on boats operating around and nearby offshore oil and gas platforms, the three RIBs have been fitted with diesel engines. Two of the boats are powered by OXE diesel outboards of 111 kW each while the third boat is powered by a Yanmar 4LHA-DTZP diesel engine paired with a Hamilton waterjet.

In addition to the patented hypalon tube, each of the RIBs is fitted with a single-point lifting system installed at the centre of gravity and connected to a Henriksen safety release hook. These allow the boats to be quickly, easily, and safely launched from and recovered aboard offshore platforms. For boarding operations and for personnel transfer, the boats are equipped with boarding steps with handrails at the bow.

The RIBs also feature folding dive ladders with platforms and non-skid ware protective patches on the tubes. The orange tube is also braced with a reflective tape all around to provide light reflection and to make nighttime operations possible. The hypalon tube also has a triple line of protective rubber fenders.

Each boat’s electronics suite includes a Garmin radar fitted atop a stainless steel arch that can be folded prone for easier stowage and transportability.

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