The new High Speed Offshore Service Craft (HSOSC) draft rules are already having an impact, Andy Page of Alicat Marine Design told MJ.
Firstly, Alicat is adapting no less than five vessels to take advantage of the new regulations: this proposes a new category of ‘industrial personnel’, effectively doubling the previous CTV limit of 12 passengers to 24.
Three CTV capacity upgrades have already been turned around: two Southboat vessels, Seacat Courageous and Enterprise (still under build at the time), were followed by Maritime Services’ Damen Twin Axe, MCS Pampero. The next two vessels are due to be completed during the quieter winter months.
However, compliance is challenging as “everyone has limited understanding” of the new code explained Mr Page, necessitating close and pragmatic cooperation with both Bureau Veritas and the MCA itself. Further, Maritime Services’ upcoming contract also required compliance with German regulations.
Although Pampero was handed over on time, it wasn’t the only job Alicat had to complete by March 31. Another, rather unusual conversion of a CTV to dive support vessel, again prompted by industry shifts, is striking because the documents were only signed at 11pm on February 9. Considering the scope of works – and procurement – this was something of a triumph.
Two tonnes of equipment, including specialised winches, crane, dive support station, CCTV, compression kit, plus a significant design effort, were brought together for a complete 'turnkey' delivery of the DSV Callan (previously Ellida Array).
“This was the perfect project to prove the stability of our engineering, relationships and financial credibility - and that we could achieve it against the clock,” concluded Mr Page.
By Stevie Knight
