Propulsion package for Gardline’s new WFSV

Having formed a strong working relationship with the Alicat project team from the outset, the MIT team were well briefed on the design requirements of the boat which is the sixth vessel from the builder in just over two years

A team consisting of engineers from MIT, Mekanord and Caterpillar commissioned the complete system, incorporating gearbox, propeller shaft, variable pitch propellers, electronic control system and engines. It is the first time this type of system from Mekanord has gone into a wind farm support vessel and offers versatility and efficiency of the complete propulsion package for its operators.

The 20m aluminium catamaran is capable of carrying 12 passengers and reaching speeds of 28.7 knots. It is fitted with Caterpillar C32 engines and the gearboxes, which were sent to Caterpillar for assembly prior to delivery, ensuring that

everything worked smoothly and saved time on installation.

Alicat Workboats are proven to be a solid, stable and comfortable platform, which makes them well suited for wind farm support but also for a range of other activities such as diving, hydrographical surveying and the transfer of cargo and equipment.

Technical specification

Length: 19.9m

Beam: 6m

Draft: 1.8m

Power: 2 Caterpillar C32

Speed: 28.7 knots