BV classes world’s first hybrid surface effect ship

The 43-knot twin-hulled surface effect ship (SES), CWind Pioneer, equipped with a diesel and electric drivetrain and batteries, has been classed by Bureau Veritas (BV). It is claimed to be the world’s first hybrid-powered SES.

The vessel, which has an air cushion motion control system, is operating for offshore service vessel company, CWind, and is now deployed in the Borssele 1 and 2 wind farms in the Netherlands. It is capable of transferring up to 24 passengers to the offshore facilities in challenging environmental conditions and significant wave heights of up to two metres.

BV’s notation, ‘Electric-Hybrid’, takes into account the complexity of such power systems. It defines requirements for energy storage, power distribution, control, instrumentation, and tests that must be carried out relating to power management and safety considerations, the classification society explained.

CWind managing director, Nathanael Allison, commented: “The success of the CWind Pioneer was achieved through years of research and development, resulting in the fastest, safest and most fuel-efficient crew transfer vessel on the market. By working together with industry bodies, including Bureau Veritas, our clients, Ørsted, and a range of highly qualified naval architects, shipbuilders and marine engineers, including our in-house team, we have managed to achieve something truly exceptional.”