Multi-purpose Vessels

Damen Multi-purpose Vessels (MPVs) – including the Multibuster series – are robust, flexible offshore support ships designed to carry out a wide variety of missions. Whether operating offshore, nearshore or even on the beach, these vessels are engineered for high utility across markets such as offshore wind, oil & gas, marine construction and dredging support. 

Typical tasks include:

• Towage and anchor handling

• ROV and diving support

• Supply and crew transport

• Cable laying assistance

• Beach landings and inshore operations

• Firefighting

• Inspection, maintenance & repair

• Oil recovery

By integrating flexibility into the core design – from shallow draught and DP2 to modular deck layouts – Damen MPVs are built to do more, with fewer mobilisation demands.

Adaptability is at the heart of the design. 
Whether it’s a Multibuster or another MPV model, all vessels in this series are engineered for multi-role operations. A large free deck area allows for mission-specific equipment to be installed – including winches, cranes, ROV systems, cable reels and diving spreads – while strong bollard pull capacities enable offshore towing and anchor handling with ease.

The vessels are outfitted – or prepared for outfitting – with  spud poles and four-point mooring systems, ensuring their ability to operate in the widest possible range of water depths. They are also designed to transport daughter craft to broaden their scope yet further.

Modularity = versatility 
Because many components can be containerised and rapidly mobilised, operators can reconfigure their MPV to suit different tasks with minimal downtime.

Shallow draught and beaching capability come as standard. 
The vessels are designed with extreme shallow draught capabilities. The propulsion system is fully integrated within the hull line, and the vessel’s bottom structure is reinforced, enabling safe operations in extremely shallow conditions. A specially adapted cooling system supports beached operations, making these vessels ideal for cable landings or inshore construction support.

The vessels are also prepared for installation with spud poles and four-point mooring systems.

These capability gives Damen’s MPVs a distinct advantage when operating in transitional zones – bridging the gap between land and sea-based infrastructure.

Diesel-electric propulsion with DP2 capabilities 
All Damen MPVs use fuel-efficient diesel-electric drive systems designed for variable load profiles. This not only reduces emissions and operational costs, but also provides the responsiveness needed for complex offshore tasks. 

All vessels in the series are equipped with Dynamic Positioning 2 (DP2), offering exceptional station-keeping performance. This is especially important for walk-to-work support, cable handling or subsea inspection duties where movement must be precisely controlled.

A scalable platform 

The Damen MPV portfolio includes multiple size classes, offering flexibility for project scale and operational range:

• MPV 4916 – 49 metres length, 16 metres beam, 50 tonnes bollard pull, 310 m² deck space, 3.5 m draught.

• Multibuster 4916 – 49 metres length, 16 metres beam, 75 tonnes bollard pull, 310 m² deck space, shallow draught.

• Multibuster 6020 – 64 metres length, 20 metres beam, 80 tonnes bollard pull, 410 m² deck space, shallow draught.

• Multibuster 8020 – 80.36 metres length, 20 metres beam,45-90 tonnes bollard pull, 800 m² deck space, beached capable draught.

Across the range, the balance between power, stability and agility ensures high performance in both deep water and coastal environments.

Designed with people in mind 

Crew wellbeing is a key design driver. All Damen Multi-purpose Vessels comply with SOLAS and MLC 2006 standards, and feature:

• Spacious, sound-insulated accommodation

• Ergonomic workspaces and living quarters

• Floating floors and acoustic panelling

• Dedicated hospital/sickbay

• Easy access to lifeboats and safe areas

Whether working a short contract or a prolonged offshore campaign, crews benefit from safe and comfortable conditions throughout.

Future-proof by design 
The range includes low-emission diesel-electric propulsion, optimised hull forms and lightweight materials that reduce drag, fuel use and CO₂ output. Models like the MPV 4916 feature a newly designed bow that reduces resistance and improves efficiency in head seas.

Several sustainability options are available: 

• Hybrid system compatibility

• Shore power readiness

• Alternative fuel integration (on request)

• Modular components for reduced waste 

Damen MPVs are also built to last, supporting circularity and long-term cost effectiveness.

The Multibuster is a heavy-duty variant within the MPV family. While maintaining the same core multipurpose philosophy, Multibusters are particularly known for: 

• Higher bollard pull (up to 80 tonnes)

• Heavy-duty towing and anchor handling

• Ultra-shallow draught and beaching capability

• Large unobstructed deck space

• Heavy-lift capacity and strengthened hull 

They are ideal for intensive nearshore and coastal operations – especially in wind, dredging and marine construction sectors.

A platform that evolves with your needs 

Damen’s proven series design approach ensures each vessel benefits from years of operational insight. Our MPV range brings together:

• Standardised excellence with tailored flexibility

• Global build and delivery options

• Expert service support through our worldwide hubs

• Seamless integration of third-party systems and equipment 

From concept to commissioning and beyond, we support your operation with dependable platforms that do more – efficiently, safely, and sustainably.