James Fisher unveils the pioneering 'Diamond SOV', an ULSTEIN SX221 TWIN X-STERN Service Operation Vessel (SOV) concept. Designed by Ulstein Design & Solutions AS, the concept is expected to support the UK’s target of 50GW of offshore wind energy by 2030.

Singapore-based Vallianz Holdings Limited contracted Ulstein Design & Solutions BV for the development of their new, hybrid heavy transport vessel (HTV). The new vessel, a customised ULSTEIN HX120 design, will be unique as it will feature dual-fuel engines and a battery energy storage system.

Ulstein’s announcement of a Thorium-powered ship created massive interest in the market. As shipbuilders and designers, we are looking to take this concept from the drawing board to the deep blue sea. Is this the solution that industry, and society, have been searching for to enable a truly sustainable maritime future?

Ulstein has developed a ship with two sterns and main propeller units in each corner, ideally for offshore operations requiring continuous positioning. “The TWIN X-STERN is extremely manoeuvrable, comfortable to be on board and very environmentally friendly,” says Øyvind Gjerde Kamsvåg, Chief Designer at Ulstein.

Following the introduction of our first hydrogen fuelled, zero emission design in 2019, we now reveal our vision towards a marine hydrogen future. Where the ULSTEIN SX190 showcased that zero emission ships can be realised with today’s off-the-shelf technology, we now map the way to a hydrogen fuelled marine industry.

The urgent push for more renewable energy production to achieve climate goals translates into many new offshore wind projects. Simultaneously, ambitious climate goals also call for vessels to be developed with solutions for zero-emission operations.

In order to comply with regulations, as well as minimise environmental impact, cruise operators will need new technical solutions. The ULSTEIN ZED power system allows cruise operators to visit vulnerable and protected areas without greenhouse gas emissions and local pollution.

Ulstein has ship solutions for all phases in the life of offshore wind farms. One of these is the foundation installation vessel 'Seaway Alfa Lift'. Custom-designed by Ulstein, she will serve the early development stage of new offshore wind farms, starting with the Dogger Bank Wind Farm.

In cooperation with shipowner Bernhard Schulte, Ulstein Design & Solutions has designed a diesel-electric propulsion system assisted by batteries to reduce operating hours on the main engines, save fuel and reduce environmental footprint. The hybrid system has been installed on the WINDEA JULES VERNE at Ulstein Verft.