Only two years have passed since Ulstein Group introduced the X-STERN hull line innovation at the ONS maritime exhibition in Stavanger. Shortly after, two Service Operation Vessels (SOV) for the offshore wind industry were contracted by BS Offshore, Germany. The vessels were chartered by Siemens.
The X-STERN is a pointed stern instead of a conventional transom (flat) stern. Flexibility in operations is one of the major benefits with the X-STERN. Comfort is increased due to reduced vibrations and slamming. Flexibility and comfort are key assets to the ‘Windea La Cour’, which will be accommodating, transporting and transferring technicians from shore and to the wind turbines in the Gemini wind farm offshore the Netherlands. The vessel can swiftly move between wind installations.
The X-STERN shares much of the same characteristics as the proven and patented X-BOW bow design, which is also a design element in the ‘Windea La Cour’. The vessel will experience no bow or stern impact in terms of slamming, as the acceleration levels are lower. Also, vibration levels will be lower and the sustained speed is higher.
Source & Image Credit: Ulstein
