Rix launches first windfarm support vessel
Hull based offshore windfarm shipping company, Rix Sea Shuttle, has launched its first vessel which was specifically commissioned to serve the offshore windfarm sector.
The Rix Panther is the first of five vessels commissioned by Rix Sea Shuttle. The aluminium boats will be used to transport maintenance engineers to and from offshore wind turbines in the North Sea. Each of the five vessels, which can carry up to 12 technicians and are capable of reaching up to 25 knots, will be crewed and operated by Rix Sea Shuttle.
James Doyle, director, Rix Shipping, said: “We have been working on sea shuttles project for a number of years now because we believe it is a growth area, so today is the cumulation of a great deal of planning and effort by a number of key individuals in the company who are all very proud to see the finished vessel.
“We are already in advanced discussions regarding the commissioning of this boat and the others that are due to be completed soon with some of the wind farms sector’s biggest players, and securing those contracts could well lead to further investment in the renewables sector.”
The vessels mark the company’s recent £7.5m investment in the UK’s growing renewable industry. The remaining vessels are expected to be delivered in 2013 and 2014.
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