Zero Emissions Multi Cat Workboat Unveiled

Damen Shipyards Group has unveiled a new vessel design at the Seawork exhibition in Southampton on 13th June. The Multi Cat 1908 Electric makes zero emissions workboat operations a reality, delivering a significant boost to workboat sustainability, and pairing 25 years of experience in Multi Cat construction, with cutting-edge technology.

The Multi Cat is a multi-purpose workboat designed for operations in both shallow and deeper waters. A versatile, fully electric workboat, Damen has designed the MuC 1908 E to operate inland, in harbor and along the coast, up to 20 nautical miles from shore, undertaking diverse tasks such as:

• Pushing
• Towing
• Anchor handling
• Buoy recovery
• Surveying
• Bunker supply
• Waste/oil recovery
• Support duties

Damen has considerable experience in the delivery of electric and hybrid vessels, including tugs and ferries, and has developed a reputation for reliability and efficiency.

Based on the Damen Multi Cat 1908 which has been in successful operation for over 25 years, the MuC 1908 E is able to operate for up to twelve hours on a single charge, bringing a full day’s work comfortably into range. Additionally the batteries are able to power the vessel for up to a decade following delivery.

The Multi Cat also benefits from Damen’s experience in digitalisation; featuring Triton, Damen’s award-winning connected vessel platform, Triton uses sensors located throughout the vessel, to collect data that put the operator in control. As well as providing a comprehensive overview of battery performance, Triton provides the means to optimize efficiency and conduct preventive maintenance.

In line with its philosophy of supporting its clients with tailored services packages throughout the lifecycle, Damen aims to go beyond the delivery of a vessel, taking on an integrator role. In the case of an electric vessel, this can include providing consultancy and advice, for example relating to the local electricity supply and the infrastructure required to work with it.

Additionally, Damen is able to provide additional equipment, for example the onshore charging infrastructure. The company also offers training for crews in order to familiarize them with the operation of an electric vessel.

Jeroen van Woerkum, Commercial Manager at Damen Shipyards Hardinxveld said, “With our commitment to increased maritime sustainability, we wanted to create a versatile workboat that could bring zero emissions performance to a wide range of operations. A Multi Cat is the perfect vessel for this, thanks to its flexibility and versatility. Further to this, the MuC 1908 suggested itself for the task, having been so successful over the years.”

“We have taken a proven platform, and combined it with the experience we have gained in recent years in electrification, to create an innovative vessel that has the potential to make a considerable impact on maritime emissions.”

Based on its practice of building its standard vessels in series and keeping them in stock to facilitate rapid delivery, Damen is planning to commence construction of the first MuC 1908 E in Q4 2023 at its Hardinxveld yard in the Netherlands.