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www.marinelink.com mapping. Cargo requires moving. Rigs still require sup- port. Accordingly, workboats have remained steadily employed and in demand, over time. Though the needs remain unaltered, the technology for enhancing mis- sion-specific performance has evolved. Efficiency and effectiveness can make the consideration of a new mis- sion-specific vessel very appealing. Take for example the new Response Boat Medium and the forthcoming next- generation Response Boat Small, which have incorpo- rated advanced technology for patrol boat missions that increases both the safety of the crew while also aug- menting effectiveness in mobilizing threats. Foss? hybrid tug is also making waves with a greener propulsion system that has reduced emissions, yet still tough enough to push and pull conventional loads. When Ulstein Group unveiled the unconventional X- bow hull shape maximized for efficiency and seakeeping ability, it quickly became clear that perhaps one core vessel design could be used in multiple mission-specific applications. X-bow configurations have since been developed for an array of mission-specific vessels work- ing in short sea shipping, offshore supply, sub-sea explo- ration, and now there is even potential for a wind farm installation application.Sometimes even the latest technology cannot replace the most tried and true mission-specific craft. After twenty-five years of good service, NOAA went back to the naval architects at Jensen Maritime Consultants for a contemporary redesign of their survey launches. After all the input was given and feedback exchanged, NOAA ended up with a replacement fleet of survey boats that closely resembles their older versions. FROM DREAMSTO DESIGN:Unconventional radicals opting to reinvent the keel on the workboat of their dreams must define each mission?s specifications before the keel is laid. Shooting for the moon is not a successful approach as boats are only built via compromise. A key guideline when designing a multi-mission vessel is to adhere to the likely unfamiliar, yet practical, ?Stiletto Principle?. The principle was aptly coined when a customer was insistent that every aspect of the vessel, from construction materials to the deck plans was meticulously designed to be easily accessibleand safe for a person wearing high-heel stiletto shoes. While stilettos are rarely found on today?s seagoing workboats, the merit of the principle should not be ignored. The limiting factor for successful vessel design MN#11 (32-49):MN 2011 Layouts 10/27/2011 10:01 AM Page 47