Last of ten GPA 654 PSVs launched

Bollinger Shipyard in the USA has launched the ?Knockout?, the last of ten GPA 654 Platform Support Vessels owned by Rigdon Marine and designed by Guido Perla & Associates in Seattle. The launch of the last vessel, which is expected to be delivered in August of 2008, comes about a year after launching the first of the series, the award-winning “First & Ten”, which was recognized at the WorkBoat Show 2007 in New Orleans as one of Ten Significant Ships of 2007.

With the near completion of this multi-vessel order, Rigdon?s GPA-designed fleet has increased to 20 PSVs, including 10 GPA 640 PSVs, which were launched in 2005 and are now serving the Gulf of Mexico shelf and deepwater production markets.

The design of the DP2- and FFV1-certified GPA 654s, measuring 58 metres in length, incorporates greater operating efficiency compared to similar sized vessels, increased cargo capacities resulting from locating propulsion generators to above main deck, as well as reduced construction cost due to simplified construction methods.

Destined to serve deepwater offshore operations, the GPA 654s are capable of carrying 144 m3 of bulk material and 652 m3 of liquid mud in self-cleaning oval tanks. As a result of the vessel?s diesel-electric propulsion configuration, the standard for GPA Offshore vessels, fuel efficiency is increased, thus resulting in cost savings, lower emissions and higher reliability.