Boskalis to Introduce Largest Subsea Rock Installation Vessel in 2026
Dutch offshore services provider Boskalis is preparing to add a groundbreaking subsea rock installation (SRI) vessel to its fleet in 2026. The company touts this upcoming vessel, named Windpiper, as the largest of its kind in the industry.
Windpiper is currently under development through the conversion of an existing new vessel under Boskalis’ supervision. The vessel will span 227 meters in length and 40 meters in width, boasting a total installed power exceeding 31,000 kW and a cargo capacity of 45,500 metric tons.
Boskalis highlights Windpiper as the industry’s largest SRI vessel, effectively doubling the company’s capacity and solidifying its position as a key player in the sector.
Anticipated for delivery in the first quarter of 2026, Windpiper will embark on its initial offshore wind projects in Northwest Europe.
Incorporating a moonpool for fall pipe installation, the vessel will also house an inclined fall pipe to safeguard offshore structures like the foundations of offshore wind turbines. Boskalis emphasizes the vessel’s design for optimal performance in demanding offshore conditions, featuring seven thrusters and DP2 certification.
With over a hundred single-occupancy cabins, Windpiper ensures comfortable accommodations for its crew.
Notably, Boskalis recently equipped the SRI vessel Seapiper with a new inclined fallpipe to enhance its operational range and expanded its fleet with a versatile DP2 vessel tailored for offshore geophysical and geotechnical surveys.