DeepOcean to reunite with high-spec subsea vessel under new charter contract

DeepOcean is reuniting with the high-spec subsea vessel Orient Adventurer under a charter contract with Taiwanese Dong Fang Offshore (DFO) which will see the vessel join the Norwegian company’s fleet from early 2026 until the end of 2027.

DeepOcean will use Orient Adventurer primarily in Europe, but also globally for offshore wind operations and maintenance (O&M) and installation, as well as high-end inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR), construction, and recycling of offshore oil & gas infrastructure.

The agreement also includes options for up to four additional years.

As part of the charter, DFO plans to open a branch office in Norway in 2025 to facilitate early deployment and ensure smooth execution of the project from 2026.

DFO CEO Chen Polin stated: “This commitment is the first time a Taiwanese offshore energy contractor has deployed vessels into the European market, and not only symbolizes a breakthrough in our vessel management and technical capabilities, but also proves that Taiwanese companies can secure a place in the most challenging global market.”

Formerly named Polar Onyx, the vessel is currently serving on an offshore wind contract in Southeast Asia. It is equipped with a 250-tonne crane and a vertical lay system (VLS) with a 275-tonne capacity. DeepOcean will install two remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) in hangars. There is also an option to install an underdeck carousel capable of carrying and installing power cables.

“We are excited to reunite with this high-quality subsea asset. We had a great experience with her during a previous three-year charter party, where the vessel served DeepOcean in Africa. The vessel’s versatility and equipment make her an excellent match for our subsea capabilities, underscored by the ability to operate across the globe,” said Øyvind Mikaelsen, CEO of DeepOcean.

“This capable and versatile vessel, combined with our ongoing organizational expansion and technological advancements, is paving the way for additional growth in sectors beyond conventional energy sources, in line with our long-term strategy.”

To remind, DFO, a subsidiary of Hung Hua Construction, purchased the vessel from GC Rieber Shipping in 2021, and converted it from a construction and flex lay vessel into a cable-laying vessel (CLV).