Damen Launches Second Walk-to-Work SOV for Bibby Marine

Photo courtesy Damen Shipyards

Damen has launched the second walk-to-work Service Operations Vessel (SOV), named Bibby WaveMaster Horizon, for Bibby Marine Service.

The vessel was launched during a ceremony held March 29 at Damen Shipyards Galati in Romania where the vessel is under construction.

Damen developed the SOV 9020 vessel following close consultation with the offshore renewable energy industry. The design combines walk-to-work capabilities with DP2 and an innovative hull along with a revolutionary interior and comprehensive features ensuring maximum efficiency of operation.

Upon delivery, the Bibby WaveMaster Horizon will begin maintenance work on two EnBW and Enbridge-owned offshore wind farms in the German North Sea for Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy and EnBW.

Damen began construction of the second SOV on spec at the same time as the first vessel, the Bibby WaveMaster 1. Bibby Marine Services and Siemens Gamesa later confirmed the contract for the vessel at the end of 2017.

“This is one the principal benefits of Damen’s philosophy of standardized shipbuilding,” explains Damen sales manager Arjen van Elk. “Building in series means that we are able to deliver reliable, proven ships in the fastest possible timeframes, at competitive prices.

“This vessel builds on the amazing track record of the sister ship the Bibby WaveMaster 1, said Stephen Bolton, Managing Director at Bibby Marine Services. “Since delivery in September 2017 the Bibby WaveMaster 1 has worked continuously in the offshore wind and oil and gas sectors proving her design and Bibby’s management model on a daily basis. We are therefore confident that the Bibby WaveMaster Horizon will perform equally well for our clients Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy and ENBW and set a new benchmark in the offshore wind operations and maintenance sector.”

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