Image: DOS / Salt Ship Design
Schoeller Holdings and Deutsche Offshore Schifffahrt have announced a groundbreaking joint venture, aiming to make a significant mark in the offshore energy sector by introducing four cutting-edge construction commissioning service operation vessels (C-CSOVs). These vessels, ordered from CSSC Huangpu Wenchong Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., are set to be delivered starting in early 2027, offering a revolutionary approach to supporting offshore wind farms and other segments of the offshore energy market.
The new C-CSOVs, designed with versatility and operational flexibility in mind, can accommodate up to 100 technicians and cater to various offshore energy operations. Measuring 96.25 meters in length and 20 meters in width, these vessels boast the capability to operate above and below water, making them suitable for wind farm installations, turbine manufacturers, grid operators, and companies involved in the oil and gas sector. This adaptability makes the vessels particularly valuable as they’re not just limited to the offshore wind market but can serve a broader range of applications.
Technical management for the vessels will be provided by Columbia Shipmanagement, a subsidiary of Schoeller Holdings. Known for their expertise in managing high-quality maritime assets, Columbia Shipmanagement will handle the crewing, training, and hotel operations, ensuring that these vessels maintain top-notch operational standards.
“The Market Needs New Players”
Philipp Maracke, Managing Partner of Deutsche Offshore Schifffahrt, emphasized the high demand for such vessels, stating, “The energy market is desperate for new players and more ships.” This comment underscores the pressing need for advanced vessels to support the burgeoning offshore energy sector. The C-CSOVs will be available for worldwide charters, offering both spot market services and long-term contracts of up to 15 years. Maracke, along with co-founder Johannes Wolters, brings extensive experience from Germany’s renowned shipyards, ensuring that these vessels are designed with industry expertise and knowledge.
A Game-Changing Vessel Design
The C-CSOVs feature a significantly expanded and modular working deck, offering over 850 square meters of unobstructed space. This allows for a broader range of applications, from conventional offshore wind tasks to cable repairs, IMR (Inspection, Maintenance, and Repair), and light construction work. A 50-tonne AHC crane with integrated 3D motion compensation enhances the vessel’s versatility, making it capable of handling complex tasks in various offshore environments.
Additionally, the vessel includes an integrated offshore gangway system, providing access to platforms ranging from 12 to 30 meters above the waterline. For technicians and equipment, a spacious lift ensures efficient and safe transportation, while a 12.4-tonne helicopter deck caters to the offshore industry’s requirements.
One standout feature is the vessel’s capability to handle modular cable repair spreads, allowing quick mobilization and deployment for urgent repairs to critical cable infrastructure. This sets the C-CSOV apart from other vessels currently in service.
Sustainability at the Core
Designed with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind, the vessels incorporate several features aimed at reducing their environmental footprint. The inclusion of a 1,000 kWh battery pack, shore power connection, and optimized hydrodynamics significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions. Notably, the ships are prepared for future retrofitting to run on methanol as an alternative fuel, with the necessary infrastructure, such as tanks and pipelines, already integrated into the design.
The vessel is also equipped with energy-efficient systems, including electrification of large equipment and heat recovery features, ensuring a greener operational profile.
A Comfortable Environment for Technicians
Life onboard these C-CSOVs offers exceptional comfort, with spacious living and leisure facilities. Technicians will have access to a 165-square-meter gym, entertainment rooms, lounges, and a weather-protected outdoor recreation balcony. Moreover, noise levels and ship vibrations have been minimized, earning the vessels a COMF (C2, V2) class notation, indicating superior comfort standards.
Positioned to Meet Global Demand
Deutsche Offshore Schifffahrt aims to address the growing need for support vessels in the global offshore energy market, which is experiencing a boom in regions such as Europe, Japan, and Taiwan. With offshore construction projects rapidly expanding, the C-CSOVs stand ready to meet these demands, offering tailored solutions for energy market operators.
The innovative design, developed in partnership with Norway’s Salt Ship Design, ensures that the vessel can cater to a wide range of clients while maintaining efficiency and adaptability, setting a new standard in offshore vessel operations.
Technical Specifications of the New C-CSOV from Deutsche Offshore Schifffahrt
The newly designed Construction Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (C-CSOV) boasts a length of 96.25 meters, a breadth of 20 meters, and a draught of 5.40 meters. It reaches a top speed of 14 knots and holds a COMF (C2, V2) class notation, highlighting its advanced comfort and operational capabilities.
