The design incorporates a hybrid system that offers considerable fuel savings compared to a purely diesel mechanical solution. This is because the available power can be adjusted to meet the various demands of the different operations that this type of vessel will be used for. The savings will be particularly notable when operating at lower power loads.
Multi-functionality is an extremely important feature of this design as the vessels are intended for use in a multitude of different tasks. These are likely to include offshore standby service, emergency towing, oil spill recovery, ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) operations, fire fighting, tanker assistance and surface surveillance.
The vessels will have redundant Dynamical Position system, DP II. The speed of the vessels will be approximately 15.5 knots. The vessels’ length is 65.9 metres and the beam 18 metres. They will comply with the Bureau Veritas (BV) ‘Clean Ship’ notation for pollution prevention.
Wartsila acquired the global ship design group Vik-Sandvik in July 2008. This acquisition was a major step in Wartsila’s strategy to strengthen its position as a total solutions provider and to be the most valued partner for its customers. By combining ship design capability with its existing offering in propulsion systems and automation, Wartsila is able to provide more added value to its customers, with further growth potential in new lifecycle services. Wartsila’s goal is to become the leading provider of ship design services in various segments.