Norwegian Shipbuilder Vard Commences Construction of Island Offshore’s Hybrid Power Ocean Energy Construction Vessel

Norwegian shipbuilder Vard has officially started the construction of Island Offshore’s innovative hybrid power ocean energy construction vessel (OECV) at its shipyard in Romania. The vessel, named Island Evolution, marks a significant step forward in the marine industry’s pursuit of sustainable and efficient offshore operations.

Vard was awarded the contract for the Island Evolution vessel in May 2024, with an option for two additional vessels. Island Offshore exercised the option for the second vessel, to be known as Island Explorer, in August of the same year.

Project Manager Roy Viggo Fjørtoft from Island Offshore had the privilege of initiating the cutting of the first steel plate, symbolizing the commencement of this groundbreaking project. The ceremony was attended by representatives from Island Offshore and Vard, highlighting the collaboration between the two companies.

Features and Capabilities

The vessels are based on the VARD 3 25 design, a result of close collaboration between Island Offshore and Vard. Designed for versatility and flexibility, the Island Evolution and Island Explorer will be equipped for a wide range of offshore operations, including subsea inspection, maintenance, and repair (IMR), pipe laying, subsea infrastructure construction, diving support, and remotely operated underwater inspection.

Additionally, the vessels will be prepared for renewable energy tasks such as walk-to-work operations, commissioning, cable laying and repairs, trenching, and survey work. They will also feature a heave-compensated offshore subsea crane with a lifting capacity of 250 tons.

The hull design of the vessels prioritizes operational efficiency and is optimized for alternative low emission fuels, aligning with the industry’s focus on sustainability and reduced environmental impact.

Completion Milestones

Island Offshore plans to hold a larger celebration and ceremony at the keel laying event scheduled for May 6, 2025. The steel cutting ceremony for the second vessel, Island Explorer, will follow on July 1, 2025, marking another significant milestone in the construction process.

Vard is responsible for the entire vessel construction process, from design and hull building to outfitting, integration, and commissioning, ensuring a seamless and comprehensive approach to delivering state-of-the-art offshore vessels.