A new class of 80-metre, ultra-shallow draught, multi-purpose workboats

At the Offshore Energy Exhibition & Conference 2022 Kommer Damen, Chairman of Damen Shipyards Group, and Arjan van Stee of Van Stee Offshore have signed a contract for the delivery next year of an 80-metre Multibuster 8020 ultra-shallow draught, multi-purpose workboat. Van Stee’s Multibuster 8020 is the first of a new class that combines the key elements of Damen’s highly successful Multi-Cat and Shoalbuster workboat classes to create a large-scale platform capable of undertaking a wide variety of projects in waters as shallow as three metres.

The vessel is the brainchild of Damen CEO Arnout Damen who recognized that workboats of this size and capability were not only in short supply but would also be increasingly required in the years ahead. The basis of the design was developed inhouse, and construction got underway at Albwardy Damen Sharjah in the UAE in 2020.

Key features of the design in addition to the shallow draught include extensive deck space, ample accommodation and the high stability that enables the fitting of larger cranes than those on vessels of a similar size. DP2 dynamic positioning is standard and the propulsion system includes a retractable tunnel bow thruster that ensures that two tunnel thrusters are available at all times for enhanced maneuverability. All third-part equipment is sourced from leading brands.

From left to right: Joost van der Weiden (Damen Sales Manager Benelux), Arjan van Stee (Director Van Stee Offshore), Kommer Damen (Chairman of Damen Shipyards Group), Valentijn de Voogd van der Straten (Operations Manager Van Stee Offshore)

As well as serving the offshore renewables and oil & gas sectors performing duties ranging from anchor-handling and towing to ROV operations, cable laying and beach pulling. The Multibuster is expected to be in demand for nearshore operations. The vessel is built to ground out on the beach for tasks such as cable landings and shore approaches.

Arjan van Stee, Director Van Stee Offshore, said: “As a specialist in shallow draft operations the Multibuster will give us new capabilities and opportunities to support our clients in the offshore energy sector. Its low emissions profile will additionally be valued by our partners working on wind and other renewables. We’re very pleased to be renewing our relationship with Damen and look forward to a long and productive cooperation.”

From left to right: Mijndert Wiesenekker (Damen Sales Director Benelux), Joost van der Weiden (Damen Sales Manager Benelux), Arjan van Stee (Director Van Stee Offshore), Kommer Damen (Chairman of Damen Shipyards Group), Valentijn de Voogd van der Straten (Operations Manager Van Stee Offshore)

Joost van der Weiden, Damen Sales Manager Benelux: added, “It’s great to be working once again with Van Stee Offshore, a family-owned company known for its high-quality vessels and many prestigious customers. We believe that the Multibuster 8020 is the right vessel at the right time, delivering a suite of capabilities that are sure to be in demand in the years ahead. We all look forward to seeing it in operation and to further collaboration with Van Stee Offshore.”

Van Stee Offshore currently operates a fleet of three multi-purpose workboats, at present active in the North Sea, Taiwan and Angola. The Multibuster, to be named Zwerver V, will provide them with another capable of global operations. Prior to its delivery next year, the vessel is undergoing some custom modifications including the addition of a four-point mooring system, the installation of a pedestal to take a large offshore crane and boat landing facilities for crew transfer vessels. The navigation and communication systems are also being upgraded along with the HVAC systems to equip it for high latitude as well as tropical conditions.