Lowestoft-based North Star has become the first offshore wind vessel operator to adopt and deploy the Midi-SOV, a new ship designed and developed by Chartwell Marine and VARD. 

North Star has entered an agreement to adopt and utilise the Midi-SOV on offshore wind projects, investing in upfront design fees to facilitate vessel construction for European operations.

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The Midi-SOV is a 55-metre offshore wind craft ready for build in the European, Asian and US markets. 

Designed to meet the niche requirements of offshore wind developers and operators, it is intended to directly complement existing fleets.

The ship bridges the gap between crew transfer vessels (CTVs) and service operation vessels (SOVs), providing enhanced comfort and workability while offering a cost-effective alternative to full scale SOVs.

Chartwell, VARD and North Star held a collaborative evening working group on Wednesday, June 12 at the Royal Southern Yacht Club, Southampton, during the Seawork boat show.

The event was hosted in an 'Art Gallery' format with drawings, diagrams and renderings on display.

Over 50 offshore wind developers, turbine manufacturers and supply chain representatives reviewed and critiqued the design of the Midi-SOV, offering feedback on its strengths and areas for refinement.

Attributes highlighted include its ability to enhance project economics through increased yield and scalability, while also improving access with year-round availability, even in adverse weather conditions – providing 13 additional hours of access per day compared to some CTV models during winter months.

The operational efficiency of the Midi-SOV was also identified as one of its key advantages, evidenced by lower technician attrition rates due to the comfortable and spacious working environments provided.

Further discussion included the Midi-SOV's robust safety performance, particularly in reducing risks during technician transfers and crane operations.

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“We designed the Midi-SOV with a clear vision of its integration into future offshore wind fleets, filling the gap that had emerged between CTVs and SOVs and addressing key operational challenges as the wind industry evolves,” said Andy Page, managing director at Chartwell Marine.

“Together with VARD, we have been very encouraged by the positive response we’ve received from offshore wind operators, underscoring the industry’s readiness for new solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and overall project costs.

“And, of course, we are delighted to continue our collaborative relationship with North Star as they take a leading role in bringing this vessel from design to reality.”

Andrew Duncan, renewables and innovations director at North Star, added: “North Star has been investigating this sector for several years and initiated the collaborative project with Chartwell and VARD as a route to market.

“Our assessment has shown that the Midi-SOV has a key role to play in European offshore wind vessel fleets, particularly as activity ramps up in the North Sea and the Baltics.

“We’re excited about the operational versatility the design can give us, as well as the high standards of safety, availability and cost efficiency it promises – and proud to play our part in bringing the first Midi-SOVs to market.”