The first of Damen Shipyard’s new Utility Vessel (UV) 3911 class has sailed across the Atlantic to Jamaica.
Following a period of training and commissioning, the vessel will commence operations for its owner, the Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJAM).
The Damen Utility Vessel range offers versatile, state-of-the-art solutions capable of undertaking a wide range of duties both in and offshore thanks to its extensive, unobstructed deck space and extensive accommodation catering for both crew and work teams.
The 39m UV 3911 for PAJAM has been equipped with a package that optimises it for undertaking maintenance support operations in the ports managed by the authority, which include four cruise and three container/public cargo terminals.
One of its principal roles will be the laying and maintenance of buoys, and so it has been designed for and equipped with a dynamic positioning system and a deck crane.
It also has a chain locker below deck where the mooring chain can be stored and is designed for excellent stability to cope with the weight of the chain and other equipment that it will be carrying on its various assignments.
Other equipment installed onboard includes a five-tonne A-frame, which will also be used to lift the buoys, and a towing winch operated from the bridge with pulling force of 10 tonnes at 10m/min.
This, in combination with the 18 tonnes of bollard pull which the vessel generates with its propulsion system, gives it the capability to tow small objects. Up to 20 personnel can be accommodated in comfort and safety.
The hull was built at Safe Shipyards in Gdansk, Poland under strict Coronavirus conditions before being towed to Damen Maaskant Shipyards Stellendam for outfitting.
This took place under the second lockdown but careful logistical planning ensured there were no delays to the scheduled timetable despite the robust safety measures in place.
