New ultra-shallow draught workboat

The 80 metre Van Stee Multibuster 8020 is the first of a new class combining key elements of Damen’s Multi-Cat and Shoalbuster workboat classes to crate a vessel capable of a wide variety of tasks in waters as shallow as three metres.

“As a specialist in shallow draft operations the Multibuster will give us new capabilities and opportunities to support our clients in the offshore energy sector,” said Arjan van Stee, director Van Stee Offshore. “Its low emissions profile will additionally be valued by our partners working on wind and other renewables,” he added.

The basis of the design was developed by naval architecture studio OSD-IMT, part of the Damen Shipyards Group, and construction began on the first Multibuster – to be named the Zwerver V – at Albwardy Damen Sharjah in the UAE in 2020.

As well as serving the offshore renewables and oil and gas sectors with duties ranging from anchor-handling and towing to ROV operations, cable laying and beach pulling, the Multibuster is expected to be in demand for nearshore operations.

Each Multibuster features DP2 dynamic positioning and a retractable tunnel bow thruster that ensures two tunnel thrusters are available at all times. Prior to its delivery next year, the Zwerver V is undergoing some custom modifications including the addition of a four-point mooring system, a pedestal to take a large offshore crane and boat landing facilities for crew transfer vessels.

The navigation and communication systems are also being upgraded along with the HVAC systems to equip it for high latitude as well as tropical conditions.