UK-based offshore vessel owner and operator HST Marine, part of Purus Wind, the offshore wind business of Purus Marine, has returned to Singapore-based shipbuilder Strategic Marine for more battery hybrid crew transfer vessels (CTVs).
A memorandum of understanding, which builds on a recent contract to build four firm and two optional hybrid CTVs, will see the two companies work toward a vessel-building deal for three new Chartwell Marine-designed 27 m catamarans.
All vessels, with a capacity of up to 32 personnel, are scheduled for delivery by the first quarter of 2024.
Since being acquired by Purus Marine last year, HST has been rapidly expanding its current fleet of vessels with a quick succession of hybrid CTV orders. Last December, HST also tapped Dutch shipbuilder Damen Shipyards for three new battery hybrid CTVs.The trio is already under construction in Turkey and is scheduled for delivery in early 2024.
Tom Nevin, CEO of HST Marine and business head of Purus Wind, said: “We have been impressed with Strategic Marine when working on our exciting new hybrid CTV project and really hope to conclude a mutually favourable agreement soon. This is just the latest example of how we are working with specialised partners to grow our fleet of low carbon vessels for supporting offshore wind operations which in addition to CTVs, also includes expanding our fleet of hybrid C/SOVs.”
