Danish operator NCT Offshore has ordered an upgraded version of Vard’s 9 01-class cablelaying vessel (CLV) type, with delivery scheduled for Q4 2024. The ship’s hull will be built at the Vard Tulcea facility in Romania, with final outfifting, commissioning and delivery to be overseen by one of Vard’s yards in Norway.
The new Vard 9 01 will measure 95m x 21.5m and its carousels will handle up to 4,500tonnes of cable. Vard comments: “The vessel will be equipped with a SeaQ power and control package, encompassing bafteries, switchboards and shore connection, allowing for reduction in fuel consumption and increased operability.” The SeaQ package will be supplied by the builder’s Vard Electro subsidiary, and it will be possible to operate the complete hybrid powertrain from the SeaQ bridge. This arrangement will grant the CLV a maximum transit speed of more than 14knots and a bollard pull in excess of 60tonnes, Vard estimates.
The vessel will also be equipped with a DP2-rated dynamic positioning system, and other features will include: two main cable tanks; a dedicated hangar for trenching ROVs; a walk-to-work system; and a large A-frame, for plough deployment over the stern. Single-cabin accommodation will be arranged for 60 persons, with Vard Accommodation supplying all HVAC and refrigeration systems.
Last year, NCT Offshore took delivery of a Vard 1 08-class platform supply vessel, Coco. Alexander Cortes, head of legal & projects at NCT Offshore, says: “We expect further extended collaboration with Vard.”
