VESSEL REFIT | IT Infinity – Platform supplier converted for cable laying for Canadian telecom firm

Norwegian shipbuilder Vard has completed conversion work on an existing platform supply vessel (PSV) to enable it to perform cable laying duties for global customers on behalf of Nova Scotia, Canada-based telecommunications firm IT International Telecom Marine.

The PSV was originally built at Vard Brattvaag in Norway to a Skipsteknisk design and delivered to local shipowner Volstad Maritime in 2008 as Volstad Princess. The vessel has changed ownership several times, with SD Standard Drilling acquiring the ship in 2017 before it was sold to IT four years later and renamed IT Infinity.

Further enhancing an already proven platform

The 93.4- by 19.2-metre (306- by 63-foot) IT Infinity was returned to Vard earlier this year for an extensive conversion, preparing it for its new role as a highly specialised cable laying vessel. IT International Telecom opted to have an existing vessel with an already proven seaworthy design be upgraded for cable laying, as the company believed the option would be a more economical alternative to ordering a purpose-built platform and waiting for it to be completed.

The conversion works on IT Infinity were carried out at Vard Brattvaag in close collaboration with a network of specialists and suppliers as well as Vard’s own facilities in Soviknes. Vard said the works included the addition of new accommodation for 32 people and required approximately 550 tonnes of steel, all sourced and processed in Norway.

The vessel's electrical systems were also upgraded. Vard Electro installed new switchboards and cabling and incorporated upgrades to the existing systems. Vard Interiors meanwhile supplied a new HVAC system.

Other newly installed features include a 60-tonne A-frame, a 25-tonne cable drum engine, a 20-tonne linear cable engine, a cable plough system, and space for a remotely operated vehicle (ROV). The vessel's existing station keeping system was also upgraded to a fully operational class-approved DP2 system.

Crew spaces expanded for sustained operations

The vessel retains its propulsion arrangement, which consists of a 3508B, four 3516B and two C32 diesel generators from Caterpillar, a Perkins 6TG2AM emergency generator, two Kongsberg Maritime AZP 120 azimuthing thrusters housing controllable-pitch propellers, and two Kongsberg Maritime TT 2200 electrically driven side thrusters. The propulsion can deliver a service speed of 16 knots and a maximum speed of 18 knots.

In addition to featuring both one- and two-person cabins with en suite bathrooms for use by the crew, the vessel also has a mess with galley, two lounges, an office, a gym, a hospital, and a laundry area. Freezers and coolers are also available for stores.

There is space on the deck for a fast rescue boat and an MOB recovery basket.