The most important features of this new variant are a raised forecastle, a higher superstructure and redesigned wheelhouse.

This will afford a significant improvement in seakeeping characteristics and enable the vessels to comply with Bureau Veritas classification for 'Unrestricted' use, Dutch Shipping Inspectorate rules for 200nm from shore and GMDSS Area 3 operation. More powerful Caterpillar 3508B TA engines are to be installed giving a total of 2200bhp at 1600rev/min, with a consequential increase in bollard pull to at least 29 tonnes.

The new wheelhouse design incorporates outward sloping windows giving much improved all round vision. Exhaust uptakes will be restricted in size and positioned to avoid creating visual blind spots. Other improvements incorporated in all three vessels are larger, Effer 12.000-3S, deck cranes of 120 tonnes/metre and twin-drum towing and anchor-handling winches.

All three hulls and major steelwork has been completed in Poland, and the vessels will be towed to Holland for fitting out by Damen Shipyards at Hardinxveld. The tugs for both Dutch owners will be delivered early next year and carry the names of the vessels they replace. Viegers existing Camperduin, a Shoalbuster 2509, will be taken over by Damen Marine Services on delivery of her successor. Tarka, another 2509, has already been sold by Herman Sr BV and is expected to go to buyers in west Africa on completion of existing contracts in October.