The buoyant state of the European aquaculture industry is such that Damen Shipyards is building four 22 metre Landing Utility Vessels for stock to ensure that new vessels can be delivered promptly.
The company is certain that 22 metre LOA, 8 metre beam LUV 2208 is an ideal working platform for the aquaculture sector, and that customers are best served with vessels that can be delivered quickly.
The four vessels are being built in close co-operation with Exeter yard Coastal Workboats. The design and development has all ben completed by Damen, who are also closely monitoring the construction process. This collaboration was initiated with the construction of the first three LUV 2208, all supplied from stock. Two of these vessels are now in operation, the latest at the Kames ecological fish farm off the Scottish west coast. The decision to build another four for stock comes after positive feedback from the clients.
The LUV 2208 is developed for the demanding conditions of sea aquaculture. Large nets and cables need to be handled, harvests need to be loaded and offloaded, and vehicles roll on and off over the ramp that also allows for beaching.
The construction incorporates extra thick bulwarks and heavily built boarding ladders. Fendering does not consist of the conventional used car tyres, but heavy rubber fenders are fixed to the hull sides, providing better protection and lasting longer.
The broad hull provides impressive stability, allowing large capacity cranes to be operated from the deck. The LUV 2208 offers enough stability for a crane that will lift a 2500 kilo weight at a 15.50 metre extension. At an extension of 3.50 metres, a crane lifting 15 tonnes can be safely operated aboard.
The engine room has the space required for any for extra equipment. Standard propulsion power is delivered by diesel direct Volvo Penta engines, including standard SCR and a particle after-treatment installation that also greatly reduces noise and vibration.
The LUV 2208 design allows for great flexibility. One or two cranes, and deck equipment such as capstans and winches can be placed on the large deck area. The helm station accommodation with a day shelter and small galley can be extended to provide one or two cabins for overnight operation.
Damen and Coastal Workboats are co-operating to establish a service and maintenance yard on the west coast of Scotland, serving clients in aquaculture close to where they operate.
