Norwegian Shipbuilder Vard Secures Contract for Two Commissioning Service Operation Vessels

Norwegian shipbuilder Vard has announced that it has secured a contract to design and build two commissioning service operation vessels (CSOVs) for an unnamed international customer. The order, valued between €100m ($116m) and €200m ($232m), also includes an option for an additional newbuild.

The vessels will be based on the upgraded VARD 4 19 design, which was developed by Vard Design in Ålesund. These vessels are specifically optimized for fuel efficiency and operability in offshore wind operations, according to the Fincantieri-controlled company.

Featuring hybrid battery propulsion systems, the CSOVs will be capable of zero-emission operation for parts of their duty cycle and will deliver peak power when necessary. The design also allows for future conversion to methanol fuel, ensuring flexibility and sustainability.

Intended for walk-to-work and commissioning tasks in the offshore wind sector, the newbuilds will offer large storage capacity, enhanced comfort, and high station-keeping capability. This will enable efficient and safe operations in demanding offshore environments.

“With this order, we’ve now passed 40 walk-to-work vessels ordered or delivered,” said Runar Vågnes, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Vard, highlighting the company’s strong position in the offshore wind market.

Construction of the CSOVs will be split across multiple Vard sites. The first hull will be built in Romania and outfitted in Norway, while the second vessel will be constructed at Vard’s facility in Vung Tau, Vietnam. Delivery schedules for the vessels have not yet been disclosed.