The Launch of the First Jones Act-Compliant Offshore Wind Turbine Installation Vessel in the United States
The United States is on the brink of a significant milestone in its offshore wind industry as the first Jones Act-compliant offshore wind turbine installation vessel (WTIV), named Charybdis, has commenced sea trials. This vessel, a groundbreaking development in the country’s renewable energy sector, is set to be delivered to Dominion Energy later in 2025.
Constructed at the Seatrium AmFELS shipyard in Brownsville, Texas, the Charybdis is the first of its kind to be built in the United States. The vessel has recently undergone jacking trials and main crane load testing, marking its progress towards completion. Seatrium has reported that the Charybdis is now 96% finished.
Being Jones Act-compliant, the vessel meets the regulations required to operate in U.S. waters for domestic offshore wind projects. With its impressive specifications, the Charybdis is one of the largest WTIVs globally, designed to handle current and next-generation wind turbines up to 12 MW or larger.
Measuring 472 feet in length, 184 feet in width, and 38 feet in depth, the Charybdis is equipped with a 426-foot crane capable of lifting up to 2,200 tonnes. It also boasts an accommodation capacity of up to 119 people, ensuring a comfortable and efficient working environment for crew members.
Preparations are currently underway for the vessel’s delivery to support Dominion Energy’s Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project later in 2025. Despite initial cost estimates of around $500 million, the price of the vessel has increased to $715 million due to modifications required to accommodate project-specific turbine loads and additional financing costs.
The launch of the Charybdis signifies a significant step forward for the U.S. offshore wind industry, highlighting the country’s commitment to renewable energy and sustainable practices. As the vessel prepares to embark on its first project, it sets the stage for further advancements in offshore wind technology and operations in the United States.