Integrated crew change vessel/gangway entering offshore trial phase

Feb. 23, 2022
Ampelmann, Damen Shipyards are in final testing of an S-type motion compensated gangway.

Offshore staff

DELFT, the Netherlands – Ampelmann and Damen Shipyards Group are preparing for the final testing phase of a project that involves integrating the S-type motion compensated gangway with the new fast crew change vessel Aqua Helix (FCS 7011).

Trials for customers should follow from mid-March onwards.

Ampelmann’s fully electric S-type gangway is claimed to be energy efficient due to its regenerative power system: one operator can perform activation, and the system can transfer up to 50 people within five minutes.  It is also designed to withstand harsh metocean conditions, providing compensation for waves up to 3 m (9.8 ft) Hs.

The gangway has been integrated into the recently launched Aqua Helix, a 70-m (229 ft) long DP2 vessel suited to North Sea conditions, with a traveling speed of up to 40 knots.

The vessel’s design is said to actively counteract vessel motions in the roughest sea states.

Companies can commission the service provided by Damen and Ampelmann on a recurring basis to suit their crew change needs, allowing for rapid deployment if needed of specialized technicians.

2/23/2022