First of the Endurance class launched and Christened

This innovative stabilised monohull vessel which will sail under the name COS Master will be operated by CoastWise Offshore Services for the transport of personnel and material to and from, among other things, offshore wind farms.

The spacious aluminium ship offers comfortable space for 31 passengers and five crew. This is a significant capacity increase. Until now, it was common practice to carry only 12 to 24 passengers. In addition, a further 22 tons of deck cargo can be transported, such as materials and equipment needed for the construction and maintenance of the wind turbines at sea.

The specially developed hull shape is claimed to offer the properties of a single-hull vessel combined with the user benefits of the double-hull catamaran. The shape of the hull and the weight distribution significantly increase the workability and in addition, a further 20 percent fuel is saved. In addition to saving fuel, this ship emits much less NOX than is required by law. Operating on HVO, the fuel made from 100% vegetable oils, will offer a further CO2 reduction of 90%.

According to Next Generation Shipyards, the employability in marginal weather conditions is considerably higher than comparable ships on the market. Albert Keizer, Managing Director of NG Shipyards said: “Based on the average North Sea conditions over the past 15 years, the NG Endurance can be employed at least 50 to 60 days more per year. This is because the ship can still operate safely at greater wave heights. The greater availability contributes to shortening the construction time of the wind farms.

This can shorten the construction phase of the wind farms, making them more profitable and it is just as important that the impact on nature is also reduced. The good sea behaviour and therefore the great comfort on board offers the workers in the wind farms high-quality work. Over the past week, many stakeholders watched the NG Endurance and showed themselves very excited. We therefore expect a lot from this ship.”

Construction of the second ship for the same client is now in full swing at Next Generation Shipyards.