Royal Boskalis Westminster N.V. (Boskalis) has kicked off a study into a new ultralarge V-class heavy marine transport vessel (HTV).

The Dockwise Vanguard, which came into service early last year, is already the world’s largest V-class HTV with a carrying capacity of 117,000 MT and a deck space of 270 m x 70 m (886 ft x 230 ft).

Peter Berdowski, CEO of Boskalis, said the Vanguard had been well received in the offshore market. “Our decision to start this study is a reflection of this and we see many more exciting opportunities in the FPSO and FLNG markets,” he said.