CTruk has launched the second of three 20t payload multi-purpose catamarans ordered by Offshore Turbine Services for use off the east coast of the UK.
With two CTruk vessels now operational, Offshore Turbine Services signed the deal for a third before the second, called ‘Captain P’, hit the water, being thoroughly convinced of the design’s flexibility and fuel economies gained from its lightweight construction. Work has now started on this third vessel at CTruk’s base in Brightlingsea.
Phil Collins, founder of Offshore Turbine Services, explained: "We needed safe, flexible and fuel-efficient vessels that could be used to ferry crew out to the wind turbines. These CTruk 20T MPCs offered us not only that but the additional functionalities possible with the pod system, making them a very sound investment. We are looking forward to getting Captain P to work up at the Lincs offshore wind farm, and to a third 20T joining the OTS fleet later this year."
CTruk’s (patent applied) flexible pod system enables operators to change the vessel’s layout within a few hours and respond to the varying demands of wind farm support work. Additionally, composite construction gives a smoother, more hydrodynamic shape, whilst being light and very tough, meaning the vessels use less fuel than aluminium alternatives.
Offshore Turbine Services’ crew members, who have collective experience of both Windcat and South Boats craft, laud CTruk vessels’ handling and manoeuvrability, as well as their ability to multi-task and quickly adapt to perform numerous functions.
CTruk chairman Andy White said: "We are delighted to continue building for Offshore Turbine Services as our designs continue to prove themselves in the field. Captain P is the eighth vessel that CTruk has launched from Brightlingsea since starting two years ago and I would like to thank the town, suppliers and employees for all their support in achieving such a growth rate. We are looking forward to applying our unique design approach and modular build system to other markets as well as to continued growth in the offshore wind industry."
Building on its success in the offshore wind arena, CTruk is now also focusing on promotion of the numerous applications for similar vessels within the military, super yacht and commercial sectors.
