New Innovation Series Launches After Successful Windcat CSOV Introduction
On November 25, 2025, during the Offshore Energy Conference in Amsterdam, Windcat signed a contract with Damen Shipyards Group for a new type of vessel called the Multi-Purpose Accommodation Support Vessel (MP-ASV). This contract includes an option for five additional vessels. The Innovation Series vessels will feature a spacious open deck with a subsea crane, designed for efficient fuel use and providing high-quality accommodation for personnel working in the offshore energy sector for extended periods.
This order follows the successful partnership between Damen and Windcat, which developed the Elevation Series Commissioning Services Operations Vessels (CSOVs). The new MP-ASVs are a completely new vessel type, building on the achievements of earlier designs, with enhanced capabilities and efficiency.
While the design is based on the established CSOVs and utilizes many of the same suppliers, the MP-ASVs are larger at 102m x 20m. They offer expanded deck space of 750m2, a subsea crane capacity of 150 tonnes, and the ability to launch and recover Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs).
Decarbonization Efforts
The vessels will come with a substantial 3981kWh battery pack on a DC grid, ensuring low emissions performance. This setup allows for peak shaving, which helps the variable-speed main engines run at their most efficient during operations, such as Dynamic Positioning (DP), thus reducing fuel consumption.
Similar to the Windcat CSOVs, a significant aspect of the Innovation Series vessels is the integration of low-carbon fuels, including a dual fuel hydrogen engine that allows the auxiliary generator to operate on hydrogen.
Home Away from Home
These vessels are designed to house up to 190 people for at least 28 days. During their offshore assignments, personnel will safely and comfortably access infrastructure using a motion-compensated gangway that can maintain a fixed connection to other structures.
To enhance the well-being of the crew and offshore personnel, Damen and Windcat have focused on providing high-standard accommodations. This includes thoughtful layouts, easy navigation, attractive designs, and high-quality materials aimed at minimizing seasickness and homesickness.
Enhanced Redundancy
The vessels will feature an advanced Dynamic Positioning system, referred to as DP2+. In addition to azimuth thrusters, there will be a tunnel thruster installed at the front and back, allowing the vessel to continue operating on DP2 even if one thruster fails. This innovative feature is critically important when working in remote offshore areas.
Shared Values and Goals
Damen Sales Manager Joost van der Weiden states: “Our partnership with Windcat showcases how Damen collaborates. Together with clients who share our values and vision, we push for innovative solutions that set new standards in safety, efficiency, and sustainability. This approach was very successful with the first six vessels of the Elevation Series. We are thrilled to receive this latest order, marking another significant advancement. I look forward to our ongoing cooperation with Windcat as we develop the Innovation Series in the coming years.”
Willem van der Wel, Managing Director at Windcat, adds: “Today, we are introducing a new type of vessel, not only to our fleet but to the market as well. We are merging the best aspects of a large deck and crane from an MPSV with the comfortable accommodation of an ASV. Through collaboration with customers and suppliers and continual evolution, we have stayed at the forefront of the offshore energy sector, prioritizing our customers' needs. By building this new vessel focused on comfort, performance, and decarbonization, we are ensuring our capability to safely and effectively support future offshore projects worldwide.”
Damen plans to begin construction of the first MP-ASV in February 2026, with delivery expected in 2028. The MP-ASVs, like the Windcat CSOVs, will be built at the Ha Long Shipyard in Vietnam.