Chartwell Marine has announced the commencement of the building phase for a new Chartwell Brevity Class crew transfer vessel (CTV) at the Diverse Marine shipyard in Cowes, UK.
This particular Brevity Class CTV is part of a trio of Chartwell-designed “stock” boats being constructed by Diverse Marine as part of a finance and lease programme. The initiative aims to provide vessel operators with the certainty needed to invest in their fleets ahead of the next phase of European offshore wind expansion.
Scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of 2024, this vessel will be joined by its sister vessels in the second quarter of 2025 and the third quarter of 2025, respectively.
Andy Page, Managing Director of Chartwell Marine, highlighted the increasing demand for proven, low-emission offshore wind vessels to support construction and operations across Europe, the US, and Asia. He emphasized the importance of finding ways to enable investment in new builds at regional shipyards to meet this growing demand while ensuring that the economic benefits of offshore wind expansion are realized locally.
The Brevity Class is designed to be a versatile vessel suitable for the global market, incorporating lessons learned from supporting offshore wind projects in Europe. It is a high-powered CTV capable of cost-effective, low-emissions operation, featuring a hull form that enhances manoeuvrability and stability.
To meet various operational demands, the vessel can accommodate up to 32 personnel, offering flexible space planning and enhanced comfort for longer offshore stays.
Another Brevity Class vessel is currently under construction at the Manor Marine shipyard in Portland, Dorset, and is set to enter operations as part of Manor Renewable Energy's OPUS offshore wind fleet this summer.
Additionally, St John's Ship Building in the US is completing work on Atlantic Resolute, the second vessel in a series of six Chartwell Ambitious Class vessels ordered by Atlantic Wind Transfers (AWT), the first US offshore wind farm support company. Atlantic Resolute was launched in March this year and is scheduled for handover to AWT soon.
With more than 15 vessels in build across six shipyards in Europe and the USA, Chartwell Marine continues to deliver on its mission of providing proven, highly capable vessels while supporting the development of critical local supply chains for the global offshore wind industry.
Page emphasized that research and development remain central to Chartwell Marine's focus, especially as these new assets are being produced for the market.
