Two and a half years on from the genesis of the FCS 7011 concept in response to extensive feedback from the offshore energy sector, the build of the first of this design has begun at Damen Shipyards Antalya, Turkey. The milestone was marked by a traditional keel-laying ceremony held at the yard.
At 70 meters in length, the newbuild will be the largest monohull vessel to be built in aluminium by Damen. It is scheduled for launch in August 2020, and the builder said a prospective client can realistically look forward to delivery by the end of that year.
According to Damen, the FCS 7011 promises to offer greater efficiencies than ever before through its ability to carry larger numbers of personnel – up to 250 – greater distances – 200 nautical miles and more – at speeds of up to 40 knots. The integration of technologies including stabilizers, active interceptors and marine access systems will ensure that the men and women on board are delivered safe, well rested and ready for immediate work. While the design of the vessel allows it to operate in a wider range of weather conditions than conventional fast crew vessels, its capacity, speed and range means that multiple offshore installations can be served in a single round trip, thereby delivering substantial savings in both time and operational costs, the builder said.
Developed in close cooperation with the offshore energy sector, as the concept becomes reality interest in operating and chartering is building from both the oil and gas and renewables sectors. Momentum for exactly this type of vessel is growing rapidly as the oil majors recognize the benefits to be gained by scaling up crew deliveries in terms of size, serviceability, flexibility and safety. Customer interest is such that Damen expects that within a few years a number of FCS 7011 vessels will be operating on both sides of the Atlantic and elsewhere, the company said.
A builder of high-speed craft in both composites and aluminium, Damen Shipyards Antalya also has experience in larger passenger vessels with recent projects including a 55-meter RoPax fast ferry and a yacht support vessel.