Damen and Windcat have launched Windcat Amsterdam – the first Elevation series CSOV to arrive in European waters. The vessel has been developed in collaboration between Damen and Windcat and was constructed at the Ha Long Shipyard in Vietnam. The vessel has capacity for up to 120 people and features advanced low-carbon solutions. Windcat Amsterdam will support construction, commissioning and maintenance activities at offshore energy projects. The vessel will serve as a floating base for personnel and equipment.
“Introducing our first CSOV to Europe is a proud moment for Windcat and for all partners involved,” said Willem van der Wel, managing director at Windcat. “Windcat Amsterdam sets a new standard in our fleet and in the industry and underscores our commitment to supporting Europe’s energy transition with reliable and future-proof vessels.”
“The arrival of Windcat Amsterdam in Europe is a special moment for both Damen and Windcat,” added Joost van der Weiden, Damen sales director. “I’d like to use this occasion to offer my sincere gratitude to all involved in the project – from our customer to our suppliers, as well as all my colleagues who have contributed so much to the success of the CSOV series. In the coming years, these vessels will play an important role in supporting the offshore energy industry as it focuses on achieving increasing levels of efficiency.”
Future-proof design
The vessel is designed to operate with a significantly reduced CO2 footprint. Windcat Amsterdam has a hybrid battery-electric propulsion system and the entire energy system functions as a single integrated network. Four thrusters that can rotate 360° enable precise maneuverability and efficient operations. Collectively, these techniques are expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 30%.
Additionally, Windcat is building on the operational experience it has gained with its hydrogen-powered crew transfer vessels (CTVs). Its in-house hydrogen technology is also being implemented in the Elevation Series CSOVs. A dual-fuel hydrogen engine will enable the auxiliary genset to run on H2. The hydrogen genset, storage and fuel supply system are ready for integration on the vessel once final approvals are in place.