Back in the 1980s when it seemed as if the UT705 was just too big too elaborate and too expensive Ulsteins came up with the UT706 which was a slightly smaller version. It was therefore a bit cheaper, and so slightly more economical to run and possibly to hire. Although the last has never been particularly predictable, since shortages will ensure that high prices are commanded for even the most basic and unsuitable craft, and surpluses will ensure that operators are offered the latest, most complex and shiniest ships in the world at prices they can easily afford. So - here is the VOS Sympathy which has most recently been working in the wind industry, but was built in 1982 at Ulsteinvik as the Northern Fortress. Earlier this month it was snapped on its way to the breakers under tow from Ijmuiden.

Photo by Jan Plug - now the only current contributor to the site - and posted here on 17th April 2017.