The second hybrid power ocean energy construction vessel (OECV) that Norwegian shipbuilder VARD is building for compatriot Island Offshore has arrived in Norway for completion, ahead of the planned delivery at the beginning of next year.
Island Offshore placed an order with VARD for the design and construction of the first hybrid power OECV in May 2024, named Island Evolution, also agreeing on an option for two more vessels. The order for the second vessel, called Island Explorer, came in three months later.
The keel laying for Island Evolution took place in May 2025, with the keel laying for the second OECV following in September 2025. This first vessel, marked NB 977, arrived at Vard Langsten in Norway on July 29 for the final phase of outfitting and completion.
Island Explorer, marked NB 978 and being the 41st vessel VARD is building for Island Offshore, left Vard Shipyards Romania - Tulcea in mid-September towards Vard Langsten in Norway.
With the vessel's arrival in Norway on Sunday, October 18, the commissioning and final outfitting will take place. Delivery is planned for Q1 2027.
The sister vessels are of VARD 3 25 design and are 120 meters long. They will be capable of performing subsea operations including inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR), pipe laying, subsea infrastructure construction and installation, diving support, and equipment for remotely operated underwater inspection.
The OECVs will feature a 250-ton heave-compensated subsea crane, DP2 capability, and accommodation for 120 personnel.