Damen Shipyards and Platypus Marine Inc. have agreed to build a new 87.9' aluminum Jones Act FCS2710 fast crew supply vessel (FCS).
The FCS2710 will fill a gap in not only the offshore wind market, but also has the capability of filling roles in oil, mining, and remote construction on the West Coast, Port Angeles, Wash.-based Platypus Marine said.
The design of the FCS 2710 combines the catamaran platform with the smooth sailing behavior of the Sea Axe hull shape, providing optional seakeeping characteristics and on-board comfort, according to Platypus.
The vessel will feature a large level foredeck, high cargo capacities and excellent performance in transit and transfer.
Netherlands-based Damen has built and delivered over 6,000 vessels since 1927 at the company's 38 shipyards. Through local construction and partnering with yards such as Platypus "we have delivered over 200 vessels for the U.S. market and over 1,500 globally together with Damen Technical Cooperation Division (DTC),” Alan Borde, Damen’s U.S. area manager, said in a statement announcing the agreement. “Platypus Marine’s new construction building can hold up to four 34-meter build vessels at once in various stages of construction to handle the market need for series vessels in the range. With a strong, solid workforce and presence in the Pacific Northwest for 30-plus years, Platypus is in perfect position to support these projects from start to finish."
Platypus Marine said it will begin building the FCS upon completion of its new construction building in Port Angeles. The new facility is scheduled to be completed in late 2023 or early 2024. The new FCS is scheduled to be delivered in the first quarter of 2025.
Other features of the FCS2710 are a 972-sq.-ft. deck area, 25-knot speed, and accommodations for 24 personnel. Available options will include a hybrid propulsion system, rescue zone, deck crane, cargo fuel system, and GMDSS A3.
