DEME has entered into an agreement with Norwegian shipping company Eidesvik to acquire the DP3 offshore installation vessel ‘Viking Neptun’. Representing a substantial investment, this move highlights DEME’s commitment to its customers, and supports the continued growth of the offshore wind industry. This latest addition to its vessel fleet also confirms DEME’s mission to build future-proof, sustainable and environmentally friendly operations.

Built to the highest Norwegian quality standards, ‘Viking Neptun’ currently has a turntable capable of handling 4,500 tonnes of cables below deck, but DEME will further boost its capacity by adding a second, 7,000 tonne cable turntable on deck.

The addition of the vessel is in line with DEME’s strategy to deploy the most versatile and high-tech fleet in the industry. DEME already operates the pioneering, DP3 cable installation vessel ‘Living Stone’, renowned as one of the fastest and most efficient vessels in the cable installation sector.

Continuing DEME’s efforts to provide a future-proof, sustainable fleet, the vessel is fully compliant with the latest emission standards and features the latest environmental technology, including a battery pack for best in class fuel efficiency and more sustainable operations.

The 145 m long vessel is also equipped with a large, unobstructed deck and a 400 tonne Active Heave Compensated Knuckle Boom crane, which also makes ‘Viking Neptun’ ideal for the construction of floating wind farms.

Hugo Bouvy, Managing Director DEME Offshore, comments: “DEME is always keen to anticipate the future demands of our clients and to support them in their growth. Acquiring a second, large cable-laying vessel ensures that we are ready to serve their needs now and in the future, and that we take a proactive role in helping to facilitate the energy transition. Since its introduction, our DP3 offshore installation vessel ‘Living Stone’ has made its mark on the industry, with unrivalled capabilities. We are sure that ‘Viking Neptun’ will have an equally impressive career in the DEME fleet and it underlines our efforts to meet and exceed our customers’ requirements. At DEME, we also share Eidesvik’s team focus on pushing for more environmentally friendly operations and we will also investigate opportunities for further cooperation between our two companies.”

 ‘Viking Neptun’ is set to join the DEME fleet in the last quarter of 2022.