Global Offshore adds Solstad vessel to cable-laying fleet

Global Offshore, part of UK-based Global Marine Group, has added the cable-laying vessel Normand Clipper to its offshore installation fleet.

The vessel, on long-term charter from Norway’s Solstad Offshore, will be operational within the first quarter of this year.

Normand Clipper is currently being fitted with a 4,000-tonne cable carousel, two 15-tonne cable tensioners, a 25-tonne quadrant deployment frame and a fully integrated control system, and will be capable of operating in an increased operational window of significant wave height up to three metres.

The large open back deck will allow for full lengths of constructed CPS to be stored, facilitating a shorter operational turnaround for customers, and installing up to three inter array cables per day.

Global Offshore said that, after the upgrade, the DP2 vessel will be able to work within, and mobilise quickly between, offshore renewables, oil and gas, power as well as telecommunications installations and repairs.

Normand Clipper will also be capable of working as a dedicated trenching vessel and will similarly be able to carry out fibre optic cable installation utilising two 12-tonne linear cable engines, jointing and testing capability, a cable plough, trenching system, and work-class ROVs for post-lay inspection.

The charter gives Global Offshore options for up to eight years.