In August 2016, offshore wind service provider Rix Sea Shuttle will mobilise two of its fleet on a 14-month installation support contract at the Dudgeon offshore wind farm. One of these two vessels will be the Rix Lion, a Damen Fast Crew Supplier (FCS) 2610, Damen said in its press release.
The 26-metre long vessel will transport up to 12 wind turbine technicians and their equipment to and from the 402 MW offshore wind farm, which is currently under construction.
With over 40 vessels built since its introduction to the market, the FCS 2610 plays an important role in the on-going expansion of the European offshore wind sector.
Damen has recently implemented the ‘Zero Step’ addition to the FCS 2610 design – available for installation or retrofit on both new and existing vessels. This modification means that wind turbine technicians and crew avoid using any stairs while moving between the vessel’s accommodation area and the wind turbine work zone. Transfer is achieved via a gangway with railings.
The advantages of the ‘Zero Step’ package include safer transfer of personnel; foredeck area increased to approximately 45 m2; foredeck is provided with lashing eyes for cargo.