The invention regards a multipurpose support vessel (1), comprising a hull (2) with a bow (3) and a stern (4) and with a propulsion arrangement (5), a bridge (6) and accommodation quarters (7) and storage areas (8) for loads and cargo. On the vessel (1) the bridge (6) and accommodation quarters (7), which forms a superstructure, are located in the aft part of the vessel (1). Almost all storage areas (8) for loads and cargo are positioned between the superstructure (6,7) and the bow section (3) of the vessel. The invention also regards a method for loading/unloading the vessel (1) at an offshore installation.