Anglo-Eastern Expands Offshore Managing Windcat’s Pioneering Hydrogen CSOVs

Anglo-Eastern has announced an expanded partnership with Windcat, the offshore personnel transfer company owned by CMB.TECH. This collaboration is set to enhance the management of Windcat’s innovative fleet of dual-fuel hydrogen-powered Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs). This partnership aligns with Anglo-Eastern’s broader strategy to strengthen its technical consulting services and fleet management capabilities within the offshore sector.

Under the new agreement, Anglo-Eastern will take on the technical and crewing management of the CSOVs currently under construction at Damen Shipyards. The vessels, being built at Damen’s Ha Long Shipyard in Vietnam, will be delivered to Windcat Offshore, a new division within Windcat focused on offshore energy commissioning and services. This collaboration builds on the existing relationship between the two companies, with Anglo-Eastern Technical Services overseeing the construction of the six CSOVs. Initially, two vessels have been ordered, with the possibility of more to follow.

The vessels, equipped with dual-fuel hydrogen engines, represent a significant step forward in the industry’s move towards decarbonization. CMB.TECH, led by the Saverys family, has been at the forefront of this initiative, and Anglo-Eastern shares this vision for a more sustainable maritime future. The first of these advanced CSOVs is scheduled for delivery in 2025 and will be designed to stay on offshore wind farms for up to 30 days, offering maintenance materials and accommodations for up to 90 technicians.

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In addition to the hydrogen-powered engines, the vessels will feature cutting-edge technology, including four azimuth thrusters, a motion-compensated crane, and connectivity via STARLINK-supported network systems. This partnership is seen as a significant milestone for both companies, with Windcat’s Managing Director, Willem Van Der Wel, highlighting the global reach and experience of Anglo-Eastern as key factors in setting new standards in the offshore industry.

This strategic move by Anglo-Eastern is also featured as the cover story in the July/August 2024 issue of The Maritime Executive, reflecting its growing influence and commitment to sustainable maritime solutions.