Idled platform support vessels (PSVs) could be converted into specialised vessels for sectors such as aquaculture, shipping and defence, says Damen Shipyards Group, which it says could help ease the number of PSVs currently without employment or in lay-up.
“Our design teams have come up with workable ideas across several industries. For example, we can convert a laid up PSV into a profitable container feeder or, for naval operations, a logistic support vessel,” Remko Hottentot, Damen’s sales manager, said in a release.
“The possibilities are numerous. It will also be possible to transform a PSV into an accommodation and O&M [operation and maintenance] vessel,” Hottentot continued.
The shipyard group has already developed one such proposal for the aquaculture industry, the Damen Live Fish Carrier 8916 (artist’s impression pictured).
“Here, the concept of using the existing PSV platform is ideal, yielding many advantages for live fish carrying situations,” Hottentot explained.
Damen has a network of 15 repair and conversion yards worldwide.
