Bokalift 2 conversion starts in Dubai

Dubai-based Drydocks World has held a steel-cutting ceremony to mark the start of production on the Bokalift 2 conversion project for Boskalis B.V.

Drydocks World will convert a drillship YAN into the offshore installation vessel Bokalift 2. This vessel is designed to carry out offshore operations for wind farm installations in Taiwan.

The conversion scope includes the fabrication and installation of 9,000 tons of steel blocks on both sides of the vessel to increase the stability of the vessel and the installation of a new work deck, Boskalis said.

A 4,000-ton crane will be installed on the vessel in 2021. This revolving crane will be capable of lifting structures more than 100 meterres high.

Peter Berdowski, CEO of Boskalis, said: “This steel cutting ceremony marks an important step for Boskalis and the conversion of the Bokalift 2. The huge deck space combined with the large crane make the Bokalift 2 an extremely versatile asset and valuable addition to the Boskalis fleet. We look forward to putting this unique crane vessel to work on its maiden offshore wind project in Taiwan. Yesterday’s milestone is especially commendable in view of the challenging times that we are all currently experiencing.”

Drydocks World will carry out the conversion work as per BV class rules. This will include detailed engineering, the supply of steel, piping, and electrical bulk material, as well as the construction and installation of client issued equipment.

“The work will equip the vessel with enhanced performance and operational efficiency. As with all projects carried out under the current circumstances, all production work will comply with strict Covid-19 precautionary safety measures,” Capt. Rado Antolovic, PhD CEO of Drydocks World, said.

”Drydocks World is a specialist in offshore conversion, and we are very pleased to be extending our expertise to a project that will contribute to renewable energy development in Taiwan.”

The Bokalift 2 will be operated by BoWei Offshore, a joint venture between Boskalis and Hwa Chi construction.

The vessel will be deployed for the first time at the 589 MW Changfang and Xidao offshore wind farm (CFXD OWF) project in Taiwan, owned by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP) and two Taiwanese life insurance companies.

The project includes the transportation and installation of 62 three-legged jacket foundations and the accompanying 186 pin piles.