Barreras begins flotel construction

The flotel will be the fourth ship constructed globally to be used as a residential base and logistical support to offshore oil platforms, and the second built at the shipyard Hijos de J. Barreras. It is the first to be completely designed by Barreras in Vigo.

Unlike most other accommodation vessels which don’t have propulsion systems, or have low power ones for position-keeping rather than travelling, the Barreras flotel is different.

This flotel will be equipped with a hybrid propulsion system (diesel-electric) designed to provide high levels of redundancy, security and manoeuvrability. It comprises two azimuth thrusters of 2,700kW each, two tunnel thrusters of 1,500kW and one retractable bow thrusters of 1,500kW. Electrical power will be supplied by six main generators of 2,700kW each.

It will be equipped with a top class dynamic positioning system (DP3) and two cranes, each with a lifting capacity of 15 tonnes at 20m. The flotel will also have a helipad and one telescopic offshore gangway to transfer personnel between the ship and the oil platform.

When completed, the flotel will measure 131m in length, have a beam of 27m and be able to accommodate total capacity of 699. Construction will take around 29 months.