Damen Shipyards Group has unveiled its latest vessel, the fully electric Fast Crew Supplier (FCS) 3210 E which the company says represents the next step forward in crew transfer solutions, paving the way to zero emissions transportation of crew and cargo to offshore locations.
Damen developed the original FCS 3210 in response to feedback from the market calling for a larger crew transfer vessel. The design is based on Damen’s successful FCS 2710. It features the same combination of Damen’s Axe Bow hull shape with a rounded tunnel.
This hull form is intended to offer optimal comfort, reduced wet deck slamming and minimal resistance in the water. With the increased length of the FCS 3210, this effect is further pronounced ensuring increased uptime. Aft, the FCS 3210 offers increased space for a larger deckhouse and greater deck capacity.
Shortly after the introduction of the FCS 3210, Damen received an order for three diesel-electric versions from Purus. Following this, Damen has taken the next step forward with the development of a fully electric, zero emissions version.
The latest version of the vessel features a full electrical Volvo IPS system, enabling it to sail exclusively on battery power. With this, the FCS 3210 E is able to sail at high speeds to offshore wind farms up to 25 naut miles from shore. On arrival, it will recharge at a charging system integrated to a turbine, substation or SOV before returning to shore.
Damen Product Manager High Speed Craft Wim Boerma said: “Our crew transfer portfolio has been continually evolving since its introduction. Now, with increasing focus on sustainability, we have developed a fully electric version to enable zero emissions operations. The FCS 3210 E draws on the proven performance of its predecessors and applies the lessons learned in our development of a number of fully electric vessels. The challenge of preparing vessels for alternative propulsion often lies in knowing what fuels will be available and affordable in the future. For a vessel such as this, operating a predictable route to a location with an abundance of clean energy, the solution is clear. With the FCS 3210 E, operators can access the crew transfer vessel of the future today. The technology is fully developed and we are ready to build. All we need now is an order.”
To provide operators with the flexibility to operate the FCS 3210 at locations farther from shore, Damen has developed a full methanol propulsion version. At the present time, the engine technology enabling a vessel in this power range to sail on methanol has not reached maturity. When it does, however, the FCS 3210 Hybrid is prepared for a fast, cost-efficient conversion.
Image: Damen’s FCS 3210 E (credit: Damen Shipyards)
