DeepOcean Reunites with Orient Adventurer for Offshore Wind Operations
DeepOcean has entered into a charter contract with Taiwanese Dong Fang Offshore (DFO) to reunite with the high-spec subsea vessel Orient Adventurer. The vessel will join DeepOcean’s fleet from early 2026 until the end of 2027, with the possibility of extending the agreement for up to four additional years.
The Orient Adventurer will be utilized primarily in Europe for offshore wind operations and maintenance (O&M), installation, high-end inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR), as well as the construction and recycling of offshore oil & gas infrastructure.
CEO of DFO, Chen Polin, expressed the significance of this commitment, stating: “This commitment is the first time a Taiwanese offshore energy contractor has deployed vessels into the European market, and not only symbolizes a breakthrough in our vessel management and technical capabilities, but also proves that Taiwanese companies can secure a place in the most challenging global market.”
Formerly known as Polar Onyx, the vessel is currently engaged in an offshore wind contract in Southeast Asia. It features a 250-tonne crane, a vertical lay system (VLS) with a 275-tonne capacity, and will be equipped with two remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) by DeepOcean. Additionally, there is an option to install an underdeck carousel capable of carrying and installing power cables.
Øyvind Mikaelsen, CEO of DeepOcean, expressed excitement about the reunion with Orient Adventurer, emphasizing the vessel’s versatility and equipment that align well with DeepOcean’s subsea capabilities. He stated: “This capable and versatile vessel, combined with our ongoing organizational expansion and technological advancements, is paving the way for additional growth in sectors beyond conventional energy sources, in line with our long-term strategy.”
As part of the charter agreement, DFO plans to establish a branch office in Norway in 2025 to facilitate early deployment and ensure the smooth execution of the project from 2026 onwards.
DFO acquired the vessel from GC Rieber Shipping in 2021 and converted it from a construction and flex lay vessel into a cable-laying vessel (CLV), showcasing the company’s commitment to expanding its offshore energy capabilities.