The 12-metre (40-foot) catamaran is a next-generation platform for offshore energy, research, and other commercial operations across the US maritime market, delivered under contract to CREST. It will support crews operating aboard a service operation vessel (SOV) and will also act as the basis for a scalable model for American-built vessels serving a wide range of offshore and coastal missions.
DC1 is engineered for reliability, safety, and endurance in challenging conditions. Designed by Chartwell Marine, a trusted UK pioneer of next-generation vessel design, the catamaran hull delivers stability, while twin Volvo Penta IPS D6-500 systems provide precise maneuverability, speed, and fuel efficiency. The result is a platform that combines intelligent design with American craftsmanship, purpose-built to support transfers between larger assets and offshore structures, platforms, or work sites.
“This vessel represents the best of what happens when world-class design meets proven US shipbuilding” said Erik Derecktor, Commercial Manager, Derecktor Shipyards. “The collaboration among CREST, Derecktor, Chartwell, and Volvo Penta has created a durable, efficient crew boat that sets a new standard for versatility and performance across the offshore energy and commercial markets.”
Accommodating two crew and eight passengers, DC1 is fully certified by the US Coast Guard under Subchapter T. Its layout and systems are optimised to support technicians and crews working on inspection, maintenance, and operational tasks — whether alongside offshore energy infrastructure, research platforms, or other commercial vessels.
“This vessel is critical for CREST’s safe and efficient offshore operations” added Andy Page, Managing Director of Chartwell Marine. “Designed to maintain station alongside SOVs and offshore structures in challenging conditions, this vessel combines stability, maneuverability, and practical functionality. By partnering with Derecktor Shipyards, we’ve translated our performance-led designs into a repeatable, high-quality US build model that can scale with market demand.”
Building on decades of Subchapter T vessel experience, Derecktor and Chartwell are utilising DC1 as the foundation for a semi-custom production line. The platform can be adapted for a range of missions — including offshore energy support, research, patrol, and fast-response commercial workboats — balancing tailored configurations with the efficiencies of series production.
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