Strategic's Euro push gains momentum

Perth-based shipbuilder Strategic Marine’s aim to enter the burgeoning European offshore wind farm crew transfer market has received a major fillip, with the firm receiving orders for eight new vessels.

The vessels will be managed by Njord Offshore, a subsidiary of UK-based Norse Management, and built at Strategic’s Singapore shipyard.

Njord Offshore director Tom Mehew said the 20 metre catamarans, designed by ship designer BMT Nigel Gee, would be among the most advanced in the market when they are delivered later this year.

“The vessels’ design and features incorporate feedback from all levels of the European offshore windfarm industry and we believe that Strategic Marine’s experience in building high-speed, high-quality aluminium craft makes it the ideal partner to deliver these vessels,” Mr Mehew said.

Strategic first flagged entry into the European wind vessel market in October last year, when it signed a collaborative agreement with BMT.

The shipbuilder said it would establish a service network in Europe to support the vessels as part of its strategy.