Aker to build two AHTS vessels

Aker Yards has entered into a contract with an international shipping company to build two 5,000 dwt anchor handling tug supply vessels of Aker Yards AH 12 design.

The total value of the contract is approximately $292 million and deliveries are scheduled for Q4 2010 and Q2 2011. The hull for the newbuildings will be built at Aker Yards in Romania and outfitted at Aker Yards in Norway.

Roy Reite, who is in charge of Aker Yards’ Offshore & Specialized Vessels business area, says: “This is an historic day for Aker Yards, both given the magnitude of the order and the type of vessel. We are proud to be given the opportunity to design and build the most powerful sister vessels in Aker Yards’ history.”

The 94 metre long vessels will be equipped with a hybrid propulsion solution consisting of two 8,000 kW main diesel engines and an 11,000 kW auxiliary plant. They will have a bollard pull in excess of 350 tons and a service speed of 17 knots. Designed by Aker Yards Project, the vessels are designed for good sea keeping performance, low fuel consumption and environmental friendly operations. High standard accommodation is planned for 70 persons.