Photos: Groundbreaking Hydrogen-Ready Offshore Wind Support Vessel Launched

Damen Shipyards, Windcat, and CMB.TECH have unveiled the first of six cutting-edge Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs).

The landmark launch, which took place on October 12th at Ha Long Shipyard in Vietnam, marks the debut of Windcat’s innovative ‘Elevation Series’, comprising six ships built by Damen at the Ha Long Shipyard.

Now that this first CSOV is in the water, Damen will proceed with outfitting and commissioning operations to ready the vessel for delivery in Q2 2025.

The 87-meter vessels represent a new benchmark in efficiency, performance, and comfort for wind farm maintenance and support. With the capacity to accommodate up to 120 personnel and remain offshore for 30 days, the CSOVs are set to revolutionize in-field technical support.

The vessels boasts several technological advancements, including a hybrid-electric propulsion system and an efficient power distribution system, eliminating the need for backup diesel generators. Joost van der Weiden, Damen Sales Manager Benelux, highlighted the vessels’ efficiency: “We expect innovations like these to add up to substantial reductions in fuel consumption and, therefore, emissions.”

Perhaps most notably, the entire fleet of six vessels will be equipped with CMB.TECH’s dual fuel hydrogen technology, positioning them at the forefront of the transition to cleaner maritime fuels. This forward-thinking approach aligns with the growing demand for sustainable solutions in the offshore wind sector.

“We have been working with Damen towards this day for some years now and to see the first CSOV glide into the water was truly a special moment. We are excited for this first vessel to hit the water today and look forward to introducing this game-changing vessel to the world next year,” said Willem van der Wel, Windcat Managing Director.

The collaboration between Damen, Windcat, and CMB.TECH, which began in 2022, has already yielded impressive results. Initially contracted for two ships, the order has since expanded to six vessels, with the final contract signed in mid-2024.

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