Norway’s Island Offshore orders hybrid construction vessel from local builder

Norwegian offshore vessel operator Island Offshore has awarded compatriot shipbuilder Vard a contract for the construction of a new ocean energy construction vessel (OECV) fitted with a hybrid power solution.

The contract between Island Offshore and Vard also includes options for up to two additional OECVs.

The vessel is designed to provide high levels of station keeping ability, manoeuvrability, and seakeeping. The design allows for flexible configuration and versatility depending on the specific operations to be performed.

The hull is optimised for efficient operations, and the vessel itself is also prepared for alternative low emission fuel.

The OECV will undertake subsea operations including inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR), pipe laying, subsea infrastructure construction and installation, dive support, and remotely operated underwater inspection. The vessel is also prepared for renewable work scopes such as walk-to-work, commissioning, cable laying and repairs, trenching, and survey.

Deck equipment options will include a gangway and a heave-compensated crane.