COSCO (Guang Dong) Shipyard Co. Ltd is going to build a further two platform supply vessels of the ULSTEIN PX121 design for Vroon Offshore Services, the Netherlands. Ulstein has entered into an agreement with COSCO on delivering ship design, power & control equipment and on-site follow-up services.The first of totally six vessels in this series, VOS Pace, was launched on 30 June.

“The PX121 design is becoming increasingly attractive to oil companies as it offers a competitive combination of fuel-efficiency and cargo capacities/deadweight,” comments Sigurd Viseth, Managing Director of Ulstein Design & Solutions. “This translates to a performance level that is usually expected from larger PSVs, but at a medium-sized PSV cost – delivering excellent value-for-money for the owner and operator. We’re delighted that Vroon sees the compelling benefits of this vessel.”

Each of Vroon’s six PSVs is scheduled for delivery in 2015 and intended for operation in European waters. Measuring 83.4 metres in length, with a beam of 18 metres, they boast a rectangular cargo deck of 830 square metres and a load capacity of 4,200 tonnes (dwt).

Thanks to flexible tank capacities, the PX121 is set up to support drilling activities with longer and deeper boreholes and activities further from shore. In addition to tanks for oil, water and drilling fluids, the vessel also has two stainless steel tanks for flammable liquids or corrosive chemicals. Each ship will be equipped with dynamic positioning system Class II and meets the requirements of ‘Clean Design’, according to ABS class.

The PX121, which has a maximum speed of approximately 15 knots and modern accommodation for 23 people, also comes with the iconic ULSTEIN X-BOW®. The X-BOW offers efficiency over a wide draught range, which is important for PSVs as they often operate with varying loads. Furthermore, the X-BOW has unique, advantageous qualities in terms of motion and propulsion efficiency in moderate and heavy seas. Its innovative shape eliminates wave slamming and bow impact delivering better performance, while reducing noise and vibration, which in turn translates to enhanced crew comfort and safety levels.