Singapore's Sam Pan Marine has ordered the first hybrid crew transfer vessels (CTVs) to be built in Asia outside China.
Shipbuilder Strategic Marine said six firm contracts have been signed for its Strat Cat 27 (SC27) vessels, with options attached for six more.
Sam Pan Marine has also appointed the yard group as the exclusive commercial manager of the new fleet, including marketing the vessels for bareboat charter or sale.
The ships will be delivered from the first quarter of 2022.
They will be a combination of hybrid and hybrid-ready battery-powered units. The new design is aimed specifically at the offshore wind farm market, building on the company's Strat Cat 26 vessels.
"We are justifiably proud of our SC27, and this order for six vessels and another six to follow is a clear endorsement of the vessel's enhanced capabilities, its reduced environmental footprint and market-leading hybrid drive options," said Strategic Marine chief executive Chan Eng Yew.
Speeds exceeding 30 knots
"These new orders will further add to Strategic Marine's established track record of 25 units successfully delivered since 2010, with two units currently under construction in Singapore."
Strategic has been working with designer BMT on the ships, for which no price has been given.
The hybrid systems will reduce main engine hours and maintenance, cut noise and vibration and, depending on the vessel's operational profile and charging facilities, may reduce the carbon footprint, the yard believes.
The CTV can be fitted with various engine and propulsion options and can reach speeds of more than 30 knots.
Greg Daniel, technical manager of Strategic Marine, said the new ships have "an improved super-efficient" hull design that maximises the waterline length, delivering an increase of up to 2.5% in efficiency compared with the SC26.
Sam Pan Marine has been headquartered in Singapore since 2018. It is an investment holding and marine leasing company with a focus on renewables.
Strategic Marine has delivered more than 600 vessels made of aluminium and steel for clients in the maritime, offshore and naval defence sectors.
