VARD, one of the major global designers and shipbuilders of specialized vessels, is pleased to announce that we have signed yet another very important contract for the design and construction of one state-of-the-art hybrid power Ocean Energy Construction Vessel (OECV) for the Norwegian shipping group Island Offshore. This is the second OECV Island Offshore is signing with VARD.

Island Offshore is a Norwegian shipping group operating in the Oil and Gas and Renewable markets. Island Offshore Management AS, a leading provider of advanced marine operations, today operates a fleet of 19 vessels. In May, Island Offshore and VARD signed a contract for one firm OECVs with an option for two sister vessels. This new contract confirms the first option.

– We are happy to confirm this order, demonstrating our faith in the market outlook and our commitment to continue renewing our fleet. The vessel will further strengthen Island Offshore’s positioning in attractive market segments based on a fleet of versatile advanced offshore vessels, states Chairman Morten Ulstein.

VARD a total provider

VARD is a total provider on the vessel. Through our integrated value chain, we are delivering the design, building the hull, and outfit – integrate and commission the ship for the customer.

The Vard Group’s high technology subsidiary Vard Electro is participating in the project with comprehensive deliveries of SeaQ equipment and sustainable 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.

The SeaQ Control system will have the innovative and new portable monitoring station that enhances the flexibility and accessibility for the operators to monitor and manage the maritime operations. This new tool is an integral part of the SeaQ IAS and SeaQ ePMS systems that enable digital solutions to be seamlessly shared within the cyber-proof network onboard and onshore.

Vard Interiors will deliver modern Interior solutions and energy efficient HVAC R system aiming to create a good living and working environment onboard the vessel.

Kristian Sætre is Senior Vice President for Sales and Marketing in VARD and has been responsible for the commercial part of the contract:

– The design of the first vessel has been carried out according to plan and in close dialogue with the customer, Island Offshore. It is gratifying that Island Offshore has decided to realize the first option, a signal of our good cooperation and of the belief in a future market for a future-oriented vessel.

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. The vessel is scheduled to be delivered Q1 2027.

Overall technical information:

• Length of 120 meters and a beam of 25 meters
• Heave compensated state-of-the art offshore subsea crane of 250 tons
• Engine set prepared for alternative low emission fuel
• Accommodation for 130 persons on board; first class crew and client facilities
• DP 2 capabilities
• Energy Storage System 1,7 MHW for hybrid propulsion
• Heat Recovery System
• 2 x launch and recovery systems (LARS) for ROV
• Prepared for walk-to-work gangway