Standardised boat landing research report

Version history

March 2024, Rev. 1.1 – Page 2, reference links & bookmarking updated; no change to content

January 2021, Rev. 1 – Review

September 2016, Initial publication

Summary

The Renewable Energy Workgroup of the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) and the National Workboat Association (NWA) have been seeking a consensus on the optimum design and configuration of boat landings for accessing wind turbine foundations from crew transfer vessels (CTV).

In order to do this, a questionnaire was issued to the all the operators of European offshore wind farms to gather information on existing boat landing geometries. At the same time feedback was sought on the experience of CTV operators, fender manufacturers and structure designers.

A significant volume of data and feedback was gathered. On analysis of the data, it has been possible to develop a recommended geometry for a standard boat landing that is consistent with the G+ guidelines.

One critical area where data was lacking was on the design impact forces for the boat landing. This information was not as readily available as expected with only two out of 24 projects originally being able to supply it. Looking in detail at how the design codes address impact loads, a number of areas of challenge and further research have been identified.

Based on the feedback, several other potential areas for research have been identified. It is recommended that these are taken up by the relevant research bodies.

Contents

• Executive Summary
• Preface
• Introduction
• Crew Transfer to Offshore Wind Turbines
• The Questionnaire
• Data Analysis
• Fender Impact Loading
• Safe Clearances
• Conclusion
• Recommendations
• References