Damen OPV1900 Patrol Vessel – Sea Trials
This project was a true highlight—an advanced 100-meter vessel designed for performance and precision, capable of reaching speeds up to 22 knots. Working on a ship of this scale and purpose was both challenging and deeply rewarding.
The mission began under extraordinary circumstances: right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. Departing from an empty terminal in Amsterdam, I traveled to Damen Shipyards in Galați, Romania. The quietness of international travel at that time made the journey feel surreal.
Despite strict safety protocols and numerous clearances, we moved forward with preparations at the yard. From there, we set off down the Danube River, navigating toward the Black Sea.
This iconic stretch of water marked the start of our
10-day sea trials—a challenging and dynamic environment, ideal for thoroughly testing the vessel’s systems and performance.
The trials included everything from high-speed runs to maneuverability tests, as well as launching and recovering the onboard RHIBs (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats), all of which performed flawlessly.
We wrapped up the project with a well-earned barbecue on the aft deck upon our return to Galați—a good way to celebrate a successful mission.
