General – Newbuilding
On 25 November 2025 Windcat signed a contract with Damen Shipyards Group for a new Multi-Purpose Accommodation Support Vessel (MP-ASV).
Both parties agreed on an option of five additional vessels of this type.
To be known as the Innovation Series, the vessels will feature a large open deck and a subsea crane, offering fuel-efficient operations and comfortable, high-quality accommodations for personnel working in the offshore energy sector for extended periods.
The order follows the collaboration between Windcat and Damen during the development of the Elevation Series Commissioning Services Operations Vessels (CSOVs). The MP-ASVs are a completely new vessel type, built on the success of the previous designs, with increased capabilities and efficiency.
Although based on the proven design of the CSOVs and often supported by the same suppliers, the MP-ASVs are larger at 102m x 20m. As such, they offer increased deck space of 750m2, a subsea crane capacity of 150 tonnes, and the capability to launch and recover ROVs.
The vessels feature a large 3981kWh battery pack on a DC grid for low emissions performance. This will enable peak shaving, allowing the variable-speed main engines to operate at their most efficient working point, for example, during DP operations, thereby reducing fuel consumption.
Like the Windcat CSOVs, a key feature of the Innovation Series vessels is the integration of low-carbon fuels. A dual-fuel hydrogen engine allows it to run the auxiliary genset on hydrogen.
The vessels will be equipped to accommodate up to 190 persons on board for at least 28 days’ endurance. During offshore stays, personnel will safely and comfortably access offshore infrastructure via a motion-compensated gangway, which can also maintain a fixed connection with other structures.
To ensure the well-being of crew and offshore personnel, Windcat and Damen have placed a lot of emphasis on high-standard accommodation. This focus includes a well-thought-out configuration with easy way-finding, appealing aesthetics, and use of high-quality materials, with the aim of keeping seasickness and homesickness to a minimum.
Damen is planning to commence construction of the first MP-ASV in February 2026, with delivery expected in 2028. The MP-ASVs will be built at the Ha Long Shipyard in Vietnam.
