Seabulk Offshore Adds Powerful AHTS to Fleet

The Seabulk Offshore group of companies has decided to add a new UT-710 Anchor Handling Tug Supply Vessel (AHTS) to its fleet, making the 226-ft. Seabulk South Atlantic the fifth newbuild vessel in Seabulk’s 2003 fleet renewal program.

Built by Norway-based Brevik Construction, the 10,050-hp Seabulk South Atlantic joins the fleet on a five-year bareboat charter agreement that includes an option to purchase at the contract’s end.

Seabulk South Atlantic, which moves at speeds up to 15.5 knots, has a certified bollard pull of 133 MT, and provides a large triple-drum anchor handling/tow winch with up to 300 tons line pull and 450 tons brake load. The vessel also has a large 123 x 50-ft. deck that can handle up to 800 tons of cargo.

The UT-710, which was designed by Rolls Royce Marine, incorporates a substantial amount of that manufacturer’s equipment, including the main engines, thruster, rudder, and automation and control systems. The vessel is also fitted with high Liquid Mud and Brine capability in addition to FiFi 1 class notation and Dynamic Positioning DP1. Resulting from its versatile capabilities, the vessel can therefore serve in a multiple support role assisting heavy-duty semi-submersible rigs for exploration and development drilling, as well as fulfilling the steadily growing demand for offshore terminal support work.