Image: Concordia Damen

The first of two new offshore wind vessels designed for transporting turbine components has been launched.

Concordia Damen has collaborated with Amasus, deugro Danmark, Siemens Gamesa, and DEKC Maritime in the development and construction of the two RoRo vessels: Rotra Futura and Rotra Horizon.

These vessels, of which the first one has been launched at Jiangsu Zhenjiang Shipyard, are specifically designed for the transport of large, and ever growing, wind turbine components. Rotra Futura is expected to be delivered to Amasus in 2025.

The five companies worked together with the aim of creating a new, cost- and energy-efficient vessel type.

They claim they have created a future-proof and sustainable design that meets the highest standards for safety, efficiency, and flexibility.

The design of the Rotra Futura and Rotra Horizon builds on the previous vessels in the Rotra concept, the Rotra Mare and Rotra Vente, which were also developed by Concordia Damen, and have been successfully operating since 2016.

The new vessels are equipped for the latest generation of wind turbine components, which are becoming larger and heavier.

Thanks to the unique RO/RO system (Roll-On/Roll-Off) and an innovative ramp, these vessels can safely and efficiently transport larger loads.

Additionally, the three Liebherr cranes and the special ramp system enable turbine blades to be stowed in three tiers, providing greater flexibility in loading methods and cargo configurations.

With dimensions of 167.6 x 26 metres, and the wheelhouse and accommodation strategically located at the front of the ship, the new Rotra design maximises cargo capacity while ensuring optimal loading without obstructing visibility.

These vessels are specifically designed to meet the increasing demand for larger and more powerful offshore wind turbines.

“At Concordia Damen, innovation is central to our ship designs, allowing us to effectively respond to the growing demand for more sustainable solutions,” said managing director Chris Kornet.

“For the Rotra Futura and Rotra Horizon, we, along with our partners, have focused extensively on energy savings and an environmentally friendly design.

"The aerodynamic and hydro-optimised hull design, combined with a special low-resistance coating, contributes to lower fuel consumption.

“Furthermore, the vessels are equipped with an advanced Wärtsilä main engine, which consumes 15% less fuel and has a smaller CO? emission footprint than current standards.”

According to Concordia Damen, the Rotra Futura and Rotra Horizon represent a significant step in making logistics solutions more sustainable and support the development of large-scale wind energy projects.

Kornet added: “By continuing to focus on innovation and collaboration with our partners, suppliers and customers, we aim for Concordia Damen to remain a reliable player in the maritime sector, both for the inland shipping and the offshore wind industry.”