Bibby Marine Services has signed a contract with Damen Shipyards for Bibby WaveMaster 1, its first Service Operations Vessel (SOV) with walk-to-work access.

Designed to undertake offshore wind project work in the North Sea, the vessel is the first to be purpose-built for the transfer and accommodation of offshore personnel.

Crucially, the vessel is designed to serve wind farms being constructed farther from shore, able to remain at sea for periods up to one month with accommodation for up to 45 turbine maintenance personnel and 15 crew members.

A diesel-electric propulsion system powers twin azimuth thrusters, allowing the vessel to use less installed power than a PSV.

“The development of this vessel has started with a blank sheet of paper, as opposed to being an evolved version of an existing design. It has been tailored specifically to the needs of the offshore wind industry,” says Damen business development manager Peter Robert. “This is the first time that a wind farm operations and maintenance vessel has been designed exclusively for this purpose. Great care has been taken, over 2 years of development, to ensure suitability to the tasks for which it is designed.

“As a result, the vessel will ensure the safety and comfort of all on board for increased workability. This, in combination with other design features aiming at optimal workflow, ensures that the SOV offers a revolutionary performance in terms of cost-efficiency.”