Irish crew transfer vessel (CTV) owner and operator Farra Marine, has expanded its fleet of CTVs with a further seven vessels from Penguin Shipyard International.
The new CTVs, part of the Incat Crowther desiged WindFlex-27 series, will when complete, see Farra Marine boast a fleet of 14 CTVs servicing the UK and European offshore wind industry.
“The result of this collaboration is seven new vessels that are truly tailored to our operations in European waters,” said Martin Rice, CEO, Farra Marine.
“With the addition of our new vessels, we will offer our clients a truly bespoke service and remain ahead of the game here in Europe.”
Special customisation
The new WindFlex-27s have been customised to meet Farra Marine’s special operational requirements, following discussions between Farra Marine CEO Martin Rice, Incat Crowther and Penguin.
They feature a high deadweight capacity (50 tonnes), plush seating for up to 24 pax and Incat Crowther’s Resilient Bow Technology, which ensures safe and efficient operations in up to 2m significant wave height.
For the 2023 series, the WindFlex-27 will be powered by IMO Tier III Volvo Penta D16 main engines, which represents a significant step forward in emissions reduction.
The vessel’s main deck features a spacious passenger lounge, a wet room and ample toilet facilities. There are three large, protected cargo zones in front of the deckhouse. The upper deckhouse features the wheelhouse, a crew mess and pantry and a bathroom. The hull below the main deck is fitted with sleeping quarters for four crew, including two bathrooms.
“With the offshore wind power industry growing in the UK and Europe, the addition of these bespoke and state-of-the-art CTVs to Farra Marine’s fleet means they are perfectly placed to continue to meet the increasing demand for their services,” said Ed Dudson, managing director - Europe, Incat Crowther.
The seven new CTVs are expected to be delivered in 2023 and early 2024.
By early 2024, 13 of the 14 CTVs in Farra Marine’s fleet will be Incat Crowther-designed, Penguin-built vessels.
