Australia: RDM Presents New Generation of 35m Utility Workboat for Offshore Unlimited

Richardson Devine Marine announces that RDM Hull 055 is a new generation 35 metre utility workboat for the Offshore Unlimited Group. RDM’s relationship with the offshore Unlimited Group started in 2008 with Unlimited – a versatile 24m catamaran workboat that was immediately accepted as a practical and economical workhorse, filling a niche in the offshore support industry.

Developed from experience gained through the operation of “Unlimited”, Sydney based Incat Crowther designed a longer, wider 29 metre “Limitless” which was launched early 2010. Configured for survey work, crew and store transfer and construction support, along with long range, high speed and the many other attributes shared with Unlimited, it was clear that the Offshore Unlimited Group had their clients’ needs in mind.

Testament to this commitment to the industry is Incat Crowther’s latest design for the company which is now under construction at RDM’s Hobart aluminium shipbuilding facility and due for delivery February 2012. At 35 metres long, the catamaran is capable of transporting 125 tonnes of deadweight, including up to 50 personnel. She will transit at speeds of up to 20 knots over distances ranging up to 1800 nautical miles.

The accommodation, located over three decks contains sleeping and service facilities for crew/personnel of up to 32 persons in 15 cabins. The aft deck of the 35m Offshore Support Catamaran with a clear work area of over 160 square metres, is arranged for multiple uses and includes a moonpool for survey operations and the capacity to carry up to 4 x 20ft containers. There is a hydraulic remote deck crane capable of lifting 12 tonne @ 3 metres, and 2.1 tonne at 13m. The aft deck is structured to suit a removable luffing A-frame with a safe working load of 20 tonnes. .

Powered by twin Caterpillar C32 ACERT engines each producing 1,655hp, the vessel has a service speed of approx 19 knots. With a fuel capacity of 37,000 litres, this new 35m workhorse will be in USL 2A survey to 600nms and 1B 200nms from the Australian coast.