Function
Various development and project management surveys are increasingly being carried out by autonomous vessels. These include Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) and MiniMASS, are designed to perform various offshore wind farm operations such as surveys, inspections, and maintenance. These vessels operate with varying degrees of autonomy, enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and reducing the need for onboard personnel.
What it costs*
The day rate for an autonomous survey vessel varies significantly with the type of equipment needed on board.
Who supplies them
Suppliers include XOCEAN, Ocean Infinity, Fugro, Kongsberg Maritime, L3Harris, Saab Seaeye. Saildrone, Sea-Kit, Subsea7 and Sulmara.
Key facts
Autonomous vessels are classified based on size and degree of autonomy:
- MiniMASS (Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships less than 2.5 meters): These vessels are under 2.5 meters in length and are typically used for nearshore surveys and environmental monitoring. They are exempt from certain certifications due to their size, as outlined by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
- MASS (Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships over 2.5 meters): Vessels exceeding 2.5 meters in length, used for a broader range of offshore tasks, including geophysical and hydrographic surveys.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) defines four degrees of autonomy for MASS:
- Degree One: Ships with automated processes and decision support, with seafarers onboard ready to take control as needed.
- Degree Two: Remotely controlled ships with seafarers onboard; the vessel is operated from another location, but crew members can take control if necessary.
- Degree Three: Remotely controlled ships without seafarers onboard; the vessel is entirely operated from a remote location.
- Degree Four: Fully autonomous ships capable of making decisions and determining actions by themselves.
Autonomous vessel adoption is accelerating in the UK offshore wind sector due to improved operational safety by reducing offshore personnel exposure, lowering overall operational costs, reducing environmental impact, and increasing survey efficiency. These vessels expand operational windows and support better data acquisition, allowing developers to manage project risks more effectively.
What’s in it
- Autonomous or remotely operated vessel platform (surface or subsurface)
- Shore-based remote operation centres with satellite communications
- Advanced sensor and instrumentation suites (sonar, cameras, environmental monitoring sensors)
- Automated navigation, positioning, and control systems
- Onboard data acquisition, processing, and transmission systems
- Energy-efficient power sources, such as batteries or hybrid systems.