Vessel design and innovation

Vessels are the lifeblood of cost effective and efficient offshore wind farm construction and O&M. As well as coping with a range of challenging environmental conditions at sea, they have to be able handle the increasing demands of an industry that is growing by scale, literally and figuratively.

There are generally three main vessel categories involved in the offshore wind cycle: Survey, Construction/maintenance and O&M service vessels. The Netherlands offers all of the above, being home to some of the most experienced offshore wind vessel designers and manufacturers, as well as having some of the best shipyards in the world.

The most complex requirements perhaps come with the large construction/maintenance barges, often involving the development of new cranes and lifting technology as well as noise mitigation mitigations. However, many Dutch companies offer a versatile fleet of vessels as well as fleet management capabilities. They can ensure the most effective installation spreads that will bring transport and installation activities well within project timelines and budgets.

Innovation in design, using systems such as dynamic positioning and acoustic deterrents, also help minimise environmental impact during the construction phase significantly.