Strong focus on ACV technology wins major contract
June 8, 2026By Seawork Press FP
FISH - Marine Design | Composites
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FISH Marine Design | Composites has won a major contract to design an all new 40m composite Surface Effect Ship (SES) and a family of Air Cushioned Vessels (ACV).
The contract is with Penteli Marine, part of the CMI Offshore Group in partnership with Ctruk Sdn Bhd.
The engineering team, FISH, M2ED and EMS (Engineered Marine Systems), will support the vessel’s construction at Ctruk’s new purpose-built waterside facility in Malaysia which specialises in ACV technology and larger craft.
The 40m SES Crew Transfer Vessel is a highspeed fuel efficient long-distance DP1 crew transfer vessel providing a large deck space and accommodating up to 80 crew in business class seating. The modern composite construction ensures long term maintenance benefits whilst the lighter-than-aluminium construction results in fuel savings making it vastly more economic than helicopter operations. Alternative versions have also been developed using the same hull and machinery, for a 199 pax fast ferry, coast guard, military and border control vessels.
Penteli Marine and the CMI Offshore Group (CMI) has owned and operated high speed crew transfer vessels for close to 20 years and additionally expanded into the ACV sector with its design and build of the world’s first commercial seagoing classed Air Cushion Barge. CMI made a conscious decision to invest in the development of high-speed air cushion vessels and has worked in developing the SES design with Ctruk and FISH over the last three years.
CMI is a private company with a focus on niche markets and earlier this year signed a build contract with Ctruk for the first of a series of these vessels. This has led to a high level of enquiry for this type of vessel from both offshore clients and ferry services.
Due to the repeat nature of composite vessel construction it is planned to combine Ctruk’s series production capabilities with CMI’s ability to provide lease or charter options for new vessels; enabling an 18 month cycle from contract signing to commencement of vessel operations.
Peter Murphy, Managing Director of FISH MDC, said: “This vessel represents a major step forward in highspeed offshore transport. Working alongside Ctruk Sdn Bhd over the past decade, successfully collaborating on high technology products, we are really excited about this expansion and opportunity to further cement our partnership.
“With a strong focus on ACV technology we are now well positioned to deliver larger, advanced products into the market “
