The vessel, built in 2015 to Lloyd’s Register classification standards, is powered by twin Caterpillar C32 engines with direct drives and is equipped with an Alphatron autopilot, Böning control system, Bosch Rexroth ship controls, and a Hydrosta bow thruster system.
This integration will be the second such type using of Robosys’ VOYAGER AI into a CTV (Crew Transfer Vessel) having first retrofitted a similar Damen 26-m CTV with the VOYAGER AI Autonomous Navigation System (ANS) in 2019.
These onboard systems will be seamlessly integrated with Robosys’ VOYAGER AI, enabling Remote Control as well as enhanced safe Autonomous Navigation and safe and smart decision-making capabilities using integrated Electronic Navigation Charts (ENCs) ie. ECDIS for route/path planning and re-planning validation plus COLREGS based Collision Avoidance.
The contract, awarded by an undisclosed European client, involves a comprehensive retrofit to ensure optimal performance of the VOYAGER AI platform in real-world offshore support operations, including crew transfers, logistics, and dynamic positioning tasks.
Nigel Lee, Chief Strategy Officer at Robosys Automation, commented: “This project represents a significant leap forward not only for Robosys but for the offshore renewables industry. The integration of VOYAGER AI into this Damen FCS 2610 vessel highlights the confidence in remote and autonomous smart vessel technologies to enhance safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability, within offshore wind operations.”
VOYAGER AI offers scalable levels of autonomy, ranging from decision-support to fully autonomous operations, and is built to integrate with existing vessel control systems with minimal disruption.
Lee continued: “The integration of Robosys’ VOYAGER AI into the Damen 2610 marks a major step forward in enhancing the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of our customer’s offshore operations. As the offshore wind industry continues to evolve, embracing advanced autonomy is a natural progression to meet future demands, for safer and cleaner seas.”
This adaptability was key in securing the retrofit contract, with VOYAGER AI complementing the vessel’s legacy systems while opening the door to remote and autonomous operations.
With global demand for offshore wind accelerating, this deployment demonstrates how intelligent autonomy solutions can play a critical role in future-proofing vessel operations and supporting net-zero ambitions.
Robosys Automation is a provider of advanced maritime autonomy, vessel control systems, and smart shipping solutions. Its VOYAGER AI software suite supports a wide range of surface and sub-surface vessel operations, from ports and naval defense to offshore energy and commercial shipping.
Find out more, visit: www.robosysautomation.com
