VARD, one of the major global designers and shipbuilders of specialized vessels, is pleased to announce that we have signed a contract for the design and  construction of two Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs) for an undisclosed international customer. The agreement also has an option for one additional vessel. 

The contract is a large offshore agreement, value between 100 million and 200 million euros.  The two CSOVs are of VARD 4 19 design developed by Vard Design in Ålesund, Norway. The  design is upgraded, and tailor made to the customer’s needs to give environmental benefits with a hull design optimized for low fuel consumption, as well as high operability and comfort. 

The battery hybrid propulsion system enables the vessels to run with zero emission for periods, as well as adding peak power and maintaining a highly energy efficient profile in all operations. 

The design is also prepared for future operation on methanol, providing an additional sustainable option to its operations. 

The VARD 4 19 CSOV is a highly versatile platform for all wind support operations, focusing on onboard logistics, comfort, large storage capacities and superior operability. 

The vessels will be equipped with the Electric Controlled Motion Compensated (ECMC) 30-meter Walk-to-Work-gangway system from Vard subsidiary Seaonics, providing technical personnel stepless access to offshore windfarm installations ranging from 15 to 30 meters above sea-level. The system features a tower with an integrated elevator and is suitable for both personnel and cargo transfer. 

Further, to ensure safe and efficient handling operations, the vessel will be equipped with the ECMC C25 7-ton 3D compensated crane with, capable of lifting items of up to 5 tons at a reach of 25 meters. 

The vessel will be issued with DNV’s Cyber Secure (Essential) notation. Cybersecurity notations provide demonstrated cybersecurity readiness where cyber resilience is integrated into every stage of our shipbuilding process, from concept to delivery. Enhancing the vessels’ capability to withstand cyberattacks, to operate while under attack and the ability to recover from an attack. 

Vard Electro will deliver a complete SeaQ package designed to support safe, efficient, and modern vessel operations. With a flexible and integrated system architecture, the SeaQ portfolio enables digital progress by unifying key functions into one platform – supporting the shift toward smarter and more sustainable maritime operations. 

The digitalization is fully realized through the SeaQ Bridge, providing operators with an intuitive and streamlined workstation that offers centralized access to all key systems. Paired with the SeaQ Green Pilot, the vessel is equipped with a cloud-based solution for monitoring of fuel consumption, energy use, and emissions – onboard and remotely. This enables datadriven decision-making for improved performance and long-term efficiency. 

Vard Interiors delivers advanced interior concepts along with sustainable HVAC-R and piping systems, combining high-quality craftsmanship with a strong focus on energy efficiency.Vard Interiors is committed to designing comfortable, functional onboard environments where both crew well-being and environmental responsibility are prioritized. SVP Sales and Marketing in VARD, Runar Vågnes has been responsible for the commercial part of the contract: 

– With the order of these two latest vessels, we’ve now surpassed 40 tailored walk-towork vessels ordered or delivered—a milestone made possible by our clients’ continued confidence in our design, solutions, and quality. 

The hull of the first vessel will be built at one of VARD’s yards in Romania while outfitting, commissioning, and delivery will be from one of VARD’s yards in Norway. The second vessel will be built at Vard Vung Tau in Vietnam. 

The first vessel will be delivered mid 2027, the second in mid 2028. 

Technical information 

• Length of approximately 87 meters and a beam of about 19,5 meters. 

• Stepless walk to work system capable of working from 15 to 30 meters above sea level 

• State-of-the-art DP2 positioning and seakeeping systems. 

• Maximum transit speed of 13 knots. 

• Hybrid power generation 

• 84 cabins for 120 persons on board 

• Prepared for methanol