Anchor Handling Tug Vessels (AHT)

Anchor Handling Tug Vessels (AHT) are essential in offshore industries, primarily used for handling and positioning anchors for drilling rigs and other maritime platforms. These powerful vessels are specifically designed for challenging marine environments and are indispensable in offshore operations such as oil and gas exploration, construction, and support.

Introduction to Anchor Handling Tug Vessels (AHT)

An Anchor Handling Tug Vessel (AHT) is a specialized ship designed to tow, pull, and position anchors and other equipment for offshore platforms and rigs. Unlike standard tugboats, AHT vessels are built to handle the demands of offshore environments, particularly for anchor handling, towing, and moving rigs and drilling platforms.

These vessels typically range in size from 40 meters to over 100 meters in length, depending on their intended purpose and towing capacity. They play a crucial role in positioning drilling rigs, assisting with installation, and supporting marine operations for the oil and gas, renewable energy, and construction sectors.

How Do Anchor Handling Tug Vessels Work?

AHT vessels are equipped with powerful engines and heavy-duty towing equipment, enabling them to move large rigs and anchors over long distances. The primary function of an AHT vessel is anchor handling, which includes towing anchors to the correct location, setting the anchor, and adjusting the position of rigs and platforms.

AHT vessels also perform various additional tasks such as supplying fuel and equipment to offshore platforms, assisting with platform installation, and acting as rescue boats in emergencies. Their towing capability is a critical asset, making them indispensable for offshore logistics and rig operations.

Key Features of an Anchor Handling Tug Vessel

Anchor Handling Tug Vessels are designed with specific features that make them ideal for offshore operations. These include:

• Towing Capacity: AHT vessels are equipped with powerful engines, often exceeding 10,000 horsepower, capable of towing heavy loads, including drilling rigs.
• Stability: Designed with wide, stable hulls, these vessels are built to handle rough seas and provide a stable platform for anchor handling and towing.
• Advanced Deck Equipment: High-capacity winches, anchors, and towing gear allow these vessels to manage heavy equipment in harsh conditions.
• Crew: AHT vessels are manned by experienced crews trained to handle complex maritime tasks, ensuring safety and efficiency during operations.

Difference Between AHT and AHTS Vessels

While both AHT (Anchor Handling Tug) and AHTS (Anchor Handling Tug Supply) vessels perform anchor handling tasks, the key difference lies in their added functionalities.

• AHT vessels are primarily used for anchor handling, towing, and positioning.
• AHTS vessels, on the other hand, also serve as supply vessels, carrying fuel, equipment, and other supplies to offshore platforms.

In short, AHT vessels focus on towing and positioning, whereas AHTS vessels provide a broader range of services including supply duties and assistance with offshore logistics.

Why Charter an AHT Vessel?

Chartering an AHT vessel offers several advantages for offshore projects, including:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Chartering an AHT vessel provides flexibility and eliminates the need for long-term capital investment.
• Access to Specialized Vessels: Chartering allows you to access vessels with specific towing capacities and capabilities tailored to your project.
• Project Flexibility: Chartering gives you the flexibility to scale operations depending on project size and duration, without the commitment of ownership.

Chartering an AHT vessel provides the necessary equipment for offshore operations, without the financial burden of maintaining your own fleet.

How to Charter an Anchor Handling Tug Vessel

Chartering an AHT vessel follows a simple yet structured process:

1. Define Your Requirements: Determine the size, towing capacity, and duration needed for your project.
2. Request a Quote: Reach out to maritime charter companies for available vessels and pricing information.
3. Evaluate Vessel Options: Compare available vessels based on their specifications, crew experience, and cost.
4. Sign the Charter Agreement: Once the right vessel is selected, a formal charter agreement is signed, detailing the terms and conditions.
5. Prepare for Deployment: Coordinate with the vessel’s crew and ensure that all logistics, including equipment and personnel, are ready for the charter duration.

Factors to Consider When Chartering an AHT Vessel

When chartering an AHT vessel, consider the following factors to ensure the right fit for your project:

• Towing Capacity: Choose a vessel with adequate horsepower for the weight and distance of your tow.
• Crew Experience: The vessel’s crew must have experience in handling complex offshore tasks, ensuring safety and operational efficiency.
• Operational Area: The vessel must be suited to the specific offshore conditions, such as weather, sea state, and geographic location.
• Charter Duration: Longer-term charters may offer discounts, while short-term charters may be more flexible for project timelines.

Selecting the right AHT vessel involves careful assessment of these factors to ensure that the vessel meets your operational requirements.

Common Industries and Uses for AHT Vessels

AHT vessels are used across multiple industries, including:

• Offshore Oil & Gas: Used for positioning rigs, towing anchors, and providing logistical support.
• Renewable Energy: Supporting the installation and positioning of offshore wind farms and platforms.
• Marine Construction: Assisting with the setup of platforms and other marine structures.

These vessels are integral to operations in these sectors, ensuring that anchors are securely positioned and rigs are moved efficiently in often challenging conditions.

Types of Anchor Handling Tug Vessels

There are several types of AHT vessels, each designed for different offshore applications:

• Standard AHTs: These are versatile vessels, suitable for general anchor handling and towing tasks.
• Heavy-duty AHTs: These vessels are larger and more powerful, equipped for the most demanding tasks, such as towing massive drilling rigs.
• Multi-purpose AHTs: These vessels are designed for flexibility, often equipped with additional features like supply capabilities, making them ideal for complex offshore projects.

Why Chartering an AHT Vessel Is Right for Your Project

Chartering an AHT vessel is the most efficient and cost-effective solution for offshore operations that require anchor handling and towing. These vessels provide unmatched towing power, reliability, and stability, ensuring smooth operations in any offshore project. By chartering an AHT vessel, you can access specialized vessels tailored to your needs, with the flexibility to scale based on project requirements.