Offshore crew transfer vessel (CTV) operator High Speed Transfers (HST) confirmed on 24th March 2021 that the company will be ordering two BARTech 30 CTVs from BAR Technologies, as well as an additional hybrid Chartwell 24. These vessels will be built at Diverse Marine, on the Isle of Wight, UK.
According to HST, the hybrid Chartwell 24 will come with BAR Technologies’ Foil Optimised Stability System (FOSS) from Chartwell Marine.
CEO of HST, Tom Nevin said:
“Offshore wind owners and operators have shown a real appetite for efficient, low-carbon vessel platforms. It is exciting to work with vessel designers such as BAR Technologies and Chartwell Marine who understand what the industry needs and have the expertise to deliver next-generation designs without overcomplicating the vessels. BAR Technologies’ FOSS is fast becoming a ‘must have’ and we are keen to demonstrate the capabilities of our new vessels to the market.”
As decarbonising the vessel supply chain becomes a key imperative for wind farm owners and operators, BAR Technologies’ CTV is set to provide HST with fuel – and therefore emissions – savings of up to 30%.
Moreover, to ensure that new projects can be safely and efficiently maintained, vessel designers have risen to the challenge to deliver the next wave of innovation in offshore wind’s maritime supply chain – without sacrificing the proven characteristics that have underpinned the sector’s success to date. The two BARTech 30 vessels will offer HST the flexibility to operate year-round, benefiting from a significant reduction in vertical acceleration to ensure optimal performance.
BAR Technologies’ CEO, John Cooper said:
“Offshore wind is about to enter a golden era, but the sector needs to be ready for rapid growth – and this means building out a solid global fleet. We are proud to support forward looking vessel operators such as HST as they tackle the challenges of future offshore wind operations head-on by adopting the latest innovations in vessel design.”
The vessels will all have the same layout of the console, seating and bridge, adhering to HST’s safety specifications and ensuring operational familiarity for crew and passengers. All three vessels will be equipped with Reygar’s BareFLEET technology to give HST a granular view of fuel use and operational efficiency, delivering savings to clients and using data to demonstrate the concrete benefits of the vessel platforms to wind farm operations.
Managing Director of Chartwell Marine, Andy Page said:
“We looked at a broad suite of propulsion options for the vessel before deciding on the configuration that suits HST’s needs best, as we understand how important it is to maintain the core HST identity while continuing to innovate. By opting for a full complement of BARTech 30 and Chartwell 24 CTVs, HST has continued to show leadership in offshore wind by taking the next step in performance.”
Cooper concluded:
“Decarbonisation is the next great challenge for the offshore wind sector as it continues to expand into new markets. A crucial element of net-zero in offshore wind is reducing emissions in its maritime supply chain, using hydrodynamic expertise to deliver vessel platforms designed to reduce energy waste, opening the door to battery-electric drivetrains and cutting the carbon footprint of existing fuels.”
Credit: HST Marine
