Damen and Conrad Shipyard to build first US Multi Cats

The agreement will see the Conrad Shipyard construct two Damen Multi Cats 3013 for Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation.

The two vessels covered by this agreement will be the first Damen Multi Cats to be built in the USA.

The versatile Multi Cat, fully compliant with US Coast Guard and US Army Corps of Engineers’ stability criteria, will support dredging operations.

“This is a milestone moment for the US shipping industry and our company,” said Lasse Patterson, CEO, Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corp. “The Multi Cats will give us the ability to dredge with enhanced operating efficiencies needed to maintain our shorelines and waterways.”

With its large winches and deck cranes, the Multi Cat can perform a wide range of tasks including handling submerged and floating pipelines as well as anchor handling and logistics supply. Large tank capacities onboard will ensure the Multi Cats can also supply dredgers.

The Multi Cat significantly increases operational safety of operations, enabling hose and pipe maintenance works to take place securely on deck reducing the risk of man over-boards compared to standard industry methods utilising floating pontoons.

“These Damen Technical Cooperation (DTC) licencing agreements are a means by which US-based operators are able to access Damen’s proven vessel portfolio in a manner fully compliant with the Jones Act. Licence holders construct the vessel themselves in the country, drawing upon Damen’s experience in the engineering and production of the platform and on Damen’s support throughout the building process,” explained Damen sales manager Daan Dijxhoorn.

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Construction of the first Multi Cat will begin on 13 July 2021.