Singapore-based shipbuilder Strategic Marine has recently unveiled a series of three new crew transfer vessels that boast a maximum speed of over 53 knots, making them the fastest of their kind in the world. These vessels, powered by four 16-cylinder engines from Rolls-Royce, have been commissioned by an undisclosed national oil company in Africa for passenger transfer to offshore platforms and FPSOs. The 35-meter-long surface effect ships feature air-cushion technology within a catamaran hull form, a design innovation that marks a first in the offshore oil and gas industry.
The unique design of these crew transfer vessels allows for an optimized power-to-weight ratio, utilizing fans to generate an air cushion between the hulls that minimizes hull drag and resistance. This innovative approach enables the vessels to achieve much higher speeds compared to conventional monohulls and catamarans, all while maintaining consistent fuel consumption per hour of operations. Chan Eng Yew, CEO of Strategic Marine, emphasized the success of their goal to minimize water resistance at the hulls and maximize cruising and top speed, with the vessels reaching an impressive 53-knot top speed during sea trials.
By incorporating cutting-edge technology and a focus on efficiency, Strategic Marine has successfully commercialized this advanced technology for offshore crew transfer applications. The company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of vessel design and performance has resulted in the development of these high-speed crew transfer vessels that offer significant advantages in terms of speed and fuel efficiency. With their latest innovation, Strategic Marine continues to demonstrate leadership in the maritime industry and a dedication to meeting the evolving needs of their clients in the oil and gas sector.