Norwegian shipbuilder Vard has signed a contract to design and construct one hybrid-powered ocean energy construction vessel (OECV) with options for two more with compatriot shipowner Island Offshore.
The vessel is designed and equipped to continue the transition from oil and gas-related activities to more work in new sea-related energy markets. The first ship will be named Island Evolution and it will be due for delivery in the first quarter of 2027.
The upcoming fleet vessels are of the VARD 3 25 design, developed in collaboration with Island Offshore. The vessels are highly versatile and capable of flexible applications such as subsea operations, including IMR, pipe laying, seabed installations, walk2work, cable laying, and repairs. The hull is optimised for efficient operations, and the vessel is also prepared for alternative low-emission fuel.
The 120 m long and 25 m wide ship will have a load-compensated offshore subsea crane of 250 tonnes. This model will accommodate 130 people and have an energy storage system for hybrid propulsion with a capacity of 1MWh. The vessel will also be fitted with two ROV LARS systems and prepared for a walk2work gangway.
“During the years, VARD has delivered an impressive 41 vessels to Island Offshore. It is a pleasure to announce that Island Offshore once more placed the order for their new investment at VARD,” said Kristian Sætre, SVP of sales and marketing at Vard.
“We are proud to present the next-generation OECVs with versatile capabilities that will ensure long-term employment as the energies of the ocean evolve,” added Morten Ulstein, chairman of Island Offshore.
