NCT Offshore welcomes new cable layer to fleet

Danish subsea installation specialist NCT Offshore recently took delivery of a new cable laying vessel from Norwegian shipbuilder Vard.

Freja has been specially designed and equipped for subsea cable laying operations. It features enhanced seakeeping capabilities and station-keeping performance as well as low fuel consumption, making it suitable for sustainable operations.

Vard said Freja was commissioned and ready to depart on its maiden voyage to Denmark less than 18 months since the first steel was cut.

Following arrival in Denmark, the vessel and its equipment will undergo further outfitting and testing. The equipment to be tested includes the walk-to-walk gangway, the subsea package, and some of the cable laying gear.

Freja has a length of approximately 95 metres, a beam of 21.5 metres, and a hybrid propulsion setup that will deliver a bollard pull in excess of 60 tonnes and a maximum speed of 14 knots. The hull of the vessel was constructed at Vard Tulcea in Romania while outfitting, commissioning, and delivery took place at Vard Langsten in Norway.

The vessel is equipped with a complete SeaQ power and control package, encompassing batteries, switchboards, and shore connection, allowing for a reduction in fuel consumption and increased operability. Additionally, the vessel is fitted with two main cable tanks, a T-ROV hangar, a walk-to-work system, and is prepared for a large A-frame and single-cabin accommodation for 60 persons.