Green Marine UK Plays Key Role in Submergence Test of DEEP’s Vanguard Subsea Habitat

Orkney-based marine engineering firm Green Marine UK has been instrumental in a significant milestone for ocean engineering company DEEP, serving as the Principal Contractor for the successful submergence test of DEEP’s innovative subsea habitat, Vanguard, at Kishorn Port in the Scottish Highlands.

DEEP is dedicated to establishing permanent human habitation on the seafloor, with Vanguard being a crucial component in this mission. The modular, transportable, pressurized vessel is designed to enable humans to live underwater at depths of up to 200 meters for extended periods, setting the stage for DEEP’s larger habitat system, Sentinel.

Green Marine UK has been a key partner in the project since its inception, playing a role in site selection across U.K. waters and overseeing all marine operations for Vanguard’s submergence and testing. As the Principal Contractor for marine works, Green Marine’s coordination and expertise were vital in the success of the trials and in obtaining DNV approval.

The recent operation at Kishorn Port involved the external pressure-testing of the Vanguard hull in a controlled marine environment, a critical step in validating its structural integrity under realistic conditions. This test signifies a significant technical achievement for the project, setting the stage for human-occupied trials in the near future.

Green Marine utilized its MultiCat vessel for tandem crane lifts, load transfers, subsea deployment, umbilical handling, and recovery, showcasing their comprehensive marine engineering capabilities.

Jason Schofield, Managing Director of Green Marine, expressed his pride in supporting the DEEP initiative, highlighting the trust and reputation the company has built over the years in providing complex marine engineering services.

Tom Allison, Pressure Vessel Lead at DEEP, acknowledged the collaborative efforts that led to this milestone, from meticulous design and machining to flawless operations and support from partners like DNV, Whittaker Engineering, and Kishorn Dock staff.

This successful submergence test marks a significant step forward in DEEP’s mission to deploy their first subsea human habitat, underscoring the dedication and expertise of all involved parties towards advancing ocean exploration and technology.