The contract has been signed between Van Wijngaarden Marine Services and Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld for the build and delivery of a Damen Shoalbuster 3512, to be named the LINGESTROOM. This will bring the total number of Shoalbusters in the Van Wijngaarden fleet to five including the NOORDSTROOM, also a Shoalbuster 3512, which was delivered in April 2016.
The 3512 is the largest model in the Shoalbuster range at 35 metres and like its smaller sister-ships is designed to be a multi-purpose workboat capable of undertaking a wide variety of roles including towing, mooring, pushing, anchor handling, dredge support, supplying and other support assignments. All the Shoalbusters are well known for their exceptional versatility, particularly in shallow water, and their ability to take on just about any task. The 3512 combines a bollard pull of 55 tonnes with a deck area totaling 145 m²; enough space for seven 20 ft and two 10 ft containers, and an 11.3 tonnes @ 16.5 m deck crane, making it a formidable all-round workboat.
“The NOORDSTROOM has had an excellent reception from our clients and has been busy since we took delivery”, said Peter van Wijngaarden, Managing Director of Van Wijngaarden Marine Services. “This gives us the confidence to go ahead and order a second 3512, particularly as the offshore wind sector is likely to be a strong source of demand. Like NOORDSTROOM, the LINGESTROOM will be equipped to undertake all the roles that are necessary to support offshore windfarms and other marine construction, as well as much more besides.”
“We are delighted that Van Wijngaarden Marine Services has ordered a second Shoalbuster 3512 in twelve months at our yard,” added Jos van Woerkum, managing director at Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld. “This is certainly due in part to the excellent cooperation between the management and team of Van Wijngaarden Marine Services and the production team at our yard. This ensures that we can guarantee a fast delivery time and rapid deployment of the vessel.”
The Shoalbuster 3512 is also a popular design with the crew who work on board. The climate-controlled accommodation includes a captain’s cabin, two single crew cabins, four double crew cabins, a galley, a mess, and sanitary facilities. There is even an office for the client, complete with V-SAT connection. The facilities comply with ILO2006 rules, and can take up to 11 persons.
These Shoalbusters are exceptionally versatile and robust tug/work boats,” concluded Peter van Wijngaarden. “Just what we need in today’s market.”
Delivery is due at the end of April 2017.
from: Towing Line, Hans van der Ster
