Bollinger Launches Double Eagle for Rigdon

Bollinger launched Double Eagle, the second of ten GPA 654 PSVs ordered by Rigdon Marine in January 2006. With this multi-vessel order, Rigdon’s GPA-designed fleet has increased to 20 PSVs, including 10 GPA 640s. Like her sister vessel “First and Ten”, which was launched earlier this year, the Double Eagle has already been chartered by a leading US independent oil company to serve the offshore industry immediately. The design of the DP2- and FFV1-certified GPA 654s, measuring 58 meters in length, incorporates greater operating efficiency compared to similar sized vessels, increased cargo capacities resulting from locating propulsion generators to above main deck, as well as reduced construction cost due to simplified construction methods. Destined to serve deepwater offshore operations, the GPA 654s are capable of carrying 144 cubic meters of bulk material and 652 cubic meters of liquid mud in self-cleaning oval tanks. As a result of the vessel’s diesel-electric propulsion configuration, fuel efficiency is increased, thus resulting in cost savings, lower emissions and higher reliability. The GPA 654 PSV is currently the smallest of the GPA Platform Support Vessel series, which ranges in size from 58 to 92 m in overall length.