When world-class design meets proven US shipbuilding
November 20, 2025By Seawork Press FP
Volvo Penta
Chartwell Marine
Share this article
Next-generation high-performance offshore crew vessel, the DC1, has been delivered under contract to CREST for US offshore energy operations.
Developed in collaboration with Chartwell Marine, powered by Volvo Penta and built at Derecktor’s New York shipyard, the US-built boat will support crews operating aboard a service operation vessel (SOV).
Derecktor and Chartwell Marine are using the DC1 as a scalable model and the foundation for a semi-custom production line for American-built vessels serving a wide range of offshore and coastal missions.
“This vessel represents the best of what happens when world-class design meets proven US shipbuilding,” said Erik Derecktor, Commercial Manager, Derecktor Shipyards. “The collaboration among CREST, Derecktor, Chartwell, and Volvo Penta has created a durable, efficient crew boat that sets a new standard for versatility and performance across the offshore energy and commercial markets.”
“This vessel is critical for CREST’s safe and efficient offshore operations,” said Andy Page, Managing Director of Chartwell Marine. “Designed to maintain station alongside SOVs and offshore structures in challenging conditions, this vessel combines stability, manoeuvrability, and practical functionality. By partnering with Derecktor Shipyards, we’ve translated our performance-led designs into a repeatable, high-quality US build model that can scale with market demand.”
Accommodating two crew and eight passengers, DC1 is fully certified by the US Coast Guard under Subchapter T. Its layout and systems are optimised to support technicians and crews working on inspection, maintenance, and operational tasks — whether alongside offshore energy infrastructure, research platforms, or other commercial vessels.
