RDM048 – Unlimited

Launched December 2008 – hull number 048 – “Unlimited”

Based on Incat Crowther’s recent successes in offshore support vessel design, this ship utilises their high carrying capacity hull forms and coupled with RDM’s meticulous attention to construction detail, the operators are ensured an efficient, reliable and durable vessel.

“Unlimited” is a 24.0m high speed catamaran work boat with a maximum deadweight capability of 55 tonnes. A ship to service seismic research vessels or other operations required in the offshore oil and gas industry. The twin Caterpillar C32’s, each producing 1,300bhp @ 2100rpm, offer a regular service speed of 25 knots at half load with an extended range of 1875nm at 22 knots from the two, large, 12,500 litre fuel tanks.  The main deck, has a carrying capacity of 24 tonnes, and is arranged for multiple uses, including a moonpool for exploration services and the ability to securely carry a 20ft container. Ducting is provided to mouse dedicated wiring looms from the deck to the aft wheelhouse control station. The work deck is serviced by a Heila deck crane capable of lifting 3.5 tonnes. The crane can be operated with the conventional hydraulic levers mounted in the crane’s control box, or the operator has the option to ‘drive’ the crane from anywhere on deck with a wireless, hand held control console.

The fully air conditioned, main accommodation block is located fwd and comfortably houses a crew of ten. There is a well appointed galley with adjacent crew mess and a spacious saloon with banquet lounges and a large, wall mounted LCD television screen and DVD player for entertainment. Forward of the galley and crew mess are port and starboard crew cabins for the senior crew. The captain’s cabin has an ensuite head and shower. The large crew head also located on this deck accommodates laundry facilities. Junior crew cabins are located in both the port and starboard hull with a large pantry located aft in the port hull.

The wheelhouse is located on the upper deck and features all round visibility from the helm and first mate seats. There is a separate station for radio and scientific operations along with comfortable banquet passenger seating to port. Port and starboard sliding doors give easy access to wing control stations and the upper aft deck where the life rafts are located and tender/rescue boat sits, within easy reach of the deck crane.

Anchoring operations are carried out from the foredeck which is accessed from within the main accommodation via a watertight bulkhead door. The capstan/anchor winch is remotely operated by the crew with a tethered controller. Further adding to this remarkable vessel’s versatility and turning it into a mini tug is a pivoting towing hook situated at the forward end of the aft deck. The ship has been tested and achieved a bollard pull of 15 tonnes. To provide total manoeuvrability at sea when involved with seismic operations or coming alongside an hydraulic thruster is fitted in each bow.

To adjust trim for the many different possible service configurations, RDM have fitted an aft water ballast tank that can be easily filled or discharged as required. A spare or stern anchor is secured at the transom and the vessel offers ease of personnel transfer with generous port and starboard stairs leading to the aft boarding platforms. Fendering is practical for a vessel of this nature, provided by well fitted, heavy duty, hollow, extruded rubber section.