Argeo vessel en route to Africa for TotalEnergies gig

Norway’s Argeo has completed the conversion upgrade for the Argeo Venture and the vessel has begun its journey towards West Africa for a project with French multi-energy major TotalEnergies.

Following the completion of its conversion upgrade in Norway, Argeo Venture started the transit to Africa on April 7 where it will provide deep-water services for TotalEnergies under a $39 million contract, staying occupied for the remainder of 2024.

The vessel also has a Hugin Superior autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) on board.

The conversion project has been split and finalized in two phases, with phase one for the reactivation and major steel work carried out at Halsnøy Yard and phase two for the installation of the subsea crane and final commissioning at Fjelstrand Yard.

The upgrades included a 50t active heave compensated subsea crane installed and commissioned with required certification, a DPII system upgraded and certified to IMCA Standards, an old seismic hangard removed to cater for 350 m2 free deck space, and the installation of a new onboard data processing system.

The upgrade also comprised the full overhaul of six 1800 KW Wartsila 9L20diesel electric generators and the full overhaul and recommissioning of two Schottl of 3100 KW, two Brunwoll thruster of 850 KW and 1200 KW, as well as bridge electronics and equipment which was recertified to latest IMO regulations.

“First off all I would like to congratulate the entire team at Halsnøy and Fjelstrand yard and Argeo for a very well executed conversion and upgrade project,” said Argeo CEO, Trond F. Crantz.

“Argeo Venture represents a significant leap forward in our capability to serve our clients and deliver value in the offshore energy sector and is now fitted with enhanced equipment, advanced technology, and dedicated spaces for client interpretation, we’re poised to provide unparalleled support for projects like the one with Total Energies in West Africa.”