Vard, a Fincantieri Group company, has signed a contract for the design and construction of five 88m offshore vessels with an undisclosed international customer.
The five Vard 3 32 design vessels, described as ‘Walk-to-work’ vessels, will provide maintenance, supply, and operational services to offshore platforms in the oil and gas sector. The Vard 3 32 design has been developed by Vard in close collaboration with the customer, and is based on Vard’s portfolio of proven SOV designs. The vessels will feature the latest hull design optimised for low fuel consumption as well as high operability and comfort. They will be equipped with a diesel/electric and battery-hybrid propulsion system, a 3D motion compensated gangway system as well as a 3D motion compensated crane, and accommodation providing high comfort and good working conditions for the crew and technicians on board.
Vard Group CEO Cathrine Kristiseter Marti said: “The new contract contributes to strengthening Vard’s leading position on support vessels within the offshore energy market. We are very proud of being selected by the customer and we will provide vessels with innovative solutions specifically developed by Vard for the customer’s needs. The contract shows Vard’s strength in developing tailor-made solutions, partnering with customers to explore and design new advanced vessels and solutions.”
The vessels are designed as versatile platforms for offshore support operations focusing on onboard logistics, comfort, large storage capacities and operability. The design is prepared for extensive use of electric power in the future, providing a sustainable option.
Vard SVP Sales and Marketing Ove Dimmen said: “We are grateful and honoured that the client has trusted Vard with this substantial order. This is the result of intensive collaboration to fine tune a vessel concept to meet the operational requirements in an economical way. I would like to extend my gratitude to the individuals involved on all sides that has put in the extra efforts needed, met challenges with a positive attitude and a problem-solving mindset. Without this team effort from all involved parties this would not been possible. Now we look forward to continuing the collaboration during the construction period and are eager to see the Vard 3 32 commence operation and provide a new era to offshore maintenance activities.”
Vard’s specialised subsidiaries are providing equipment on board the vessels. They will be equipped with a comprehensive SeaQ package, delivered by Vard Electro, for streamlined onboard energy utilisation and optimised distribution across all operational modes. The advanced power system integrates SeaQ DC Switchboards with the SeaQ Energy Storage System. The DC Switchboard systems are designed in compliance with DNV’s closed bus-tie notation requirements, ensuring robust and efficient performance.
For complete control and monitoring of the vessels, including optimised fuel consumption, the delivery includes a digital scope consisting of SeaQ Integrated Automation System, SeaQ Energy Power Management System, and SeaQ Green Pilot. The Green Pilot is an advanced cloud-based service for seamless data collection, giving operators access to critical vessel information such as fuel consumption, emission analysis, and historical data.
The vessels will feature Vard Electro’s SeaQ Integrated Bridge, designed to simplify navigation and operations with all systems controlled from an intuitive touch screen. Completing the package, the SeaQ Communication system will provide the IT infrastructure, including networking, telephone systems, intercom, CCTV, and infotainment, ensuring reliable connectivity and support for daily operations. Vard Interiors will provide HVAC-R, piping systems and modern interior solutions designed to create environments that are both functional and conducive to individual well-being and productivity aboard the vessel.
The ships will be about 88m long, with a 2700 kWh capacity battery hybrid DC-power plant. They will accommodate 190 personnel. All five vessels will be built, outfitted, commissioned and delivered from Vard Vung Tau in Vietnam. The first four vessels will be delivered in the second half of 2027, and the final unit early in 2028.
Image: Vard has signed a contract to deliver five 3 32 design offshore service vessels (source: Vard)
