Island Offshore orders hybrid ocean energy construction vessel at VARD with option for two more

Norwegian shipping group Island Offshore has awarded compatriot shipbuilder VARD with a contract to design and construct one hybrid power ocean energy construction vessel (OECV) and has also agreed on an option for two more vessels.

In 2020-2021, Island Offshore, whose 19-vessel fleet operates in the oil & gas and renewable markets, took delivery of three vessels from VARD, including the Island Victory, and has now chosen VARD again as its preferred provider to the fleet renewal program.

The vessel 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.

Furthermore, it will be prepared for renewable work scopes such as walk-to-work, commissioning, cable laying and repairs, trenching and survey, as well as for installation of a gangway system and has a heave compensated offshore subsea crane of 250 tons.

The 120-meter-long vessel is designed for station-keeping, maneuverability, and sea-keeping abilities and is also prepared for alternative low-emission fuel. The design allows for flexible configuration and versatility depending on the specific operations to be performed, VARD said.

Of VARD 3 25 design, developed in close collaboration between Island Offshore and VARD, the OECV will have DP2 capabilities, energy storage system 1MHW for hybrid propulsion, two launch and recovery systems (LARS) for remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and will have accommodation for 130 persons on board.

“During the years, VARD has delivered an impressive 41 vessels to Island Offshore. It is a pleasure to announce that Island Offshore once more place the order for their new investment at VARD. We are looking forward to continuing the collaboration,” said Kristian Sætre, Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing at VARD

VARD is a total provider on the vessel and is delivering the design, building the hull, and will outfit – integrate and commission the ship. Vard Interiors will deliver interior solutions and a green HVAC R system, while Vard Electro will deliver SeaQ equipment and green solutions, including SeaQ Power with energy storage systems and SeaQ shore connection, SeaQ Bridge with full integration and an extensive SeaQ Communication network that includes network and entertainment systems.

According to the company, the SeaQ Control system will have the new portable monitoring station that enhances the flexibility and accessibility for the operators to monitor and manage maritime operations.

The hull of the vessels will be built at one of VARD’s shipyards in Romania, while the outfitting, commissioning and delivery will be from one of the shipyards in Norway.

This first ship will be named Island Evolution and is scheduled to be delivered in Q1 2027.