APRIL 29, 2012 — Hong Kong based Kuma Shipping is to build two platform supply vessels of the new Ulstein P128 design at a Chinese shipyard for planned delivery in 2014.

The design has been developed to serve the general PSV market related to work-over barges and jack-up rigs.

"This is a design that combines low fuel oil consumption with high carrying capacity at an attractive price," says Ulstein Design & Solutions area sales manager Ove Dimmen. "We wanted to come up with a design for a smaller PSV that could support barges and rigs in a more economical way than the traditional offshore support vessel, both in terms of building cost and operational costs."

The vessels will measure 71.5 m by 15 m and have a deadweight of approximately 3,000 tonnes. The 610 sq.m work deck can accommodate four lengths of 12 m-long casing pipes and is enclosed by plate covered crash barriers providing increased safety for crew and cargo. The discharge systems have been designed for safe and efficient loading and discharging of several dry and wet bulk cargoes simultaneously. DP2 and automation system for machinery and cargo handling will contribute to safe and efficient vessel's operation.

The vessels will be arranged and equipped for 24 persons.