Texas-based dredging company Great Lakes Dredge & Dock has launched the Acadia subsea rock installation (SRI) vessel ahead of its maiden deployment for scour protection at Equinor’s 810MW Empire Wind 1 project off New York.
The ship was launched from the Hanwha Philly Shipyard and is the first US-flagged, Jones Act-compliant SRI vessel. It is expected to be ready for delivery in early 2026.
It is capable of transporting and installing up to 20,000 metric tonnes of rock for scour protection around subsea infrastructure including power transmission cables and wind turbine foundations.
Great Lakes said it has “expanded its market focus” outside of the US to make Acadia available for work in other international markets.
Company senior vice president for offshore energy Eleni Beyko said: “The launch of the Acadia marks a major milestone for our offshore energy business.
“Upon delivery, the Acadia will start her journey towards New York for the installation of rock for the Empire Wind 1 offshore wind farm and continue working on the US East Coast on contracted work through the end of 2026.
“Over the last two years we have actively engaged with clients for new engagements on offshore energy projects for Acadia for 2027 and beyond.”
Chief executive Lasse Petterson added: “We are excited to see the launch of the Acadia, getting us closer to her expected delivery early next year which will also mark the completion of our major new build programme.
“The Acadia is the centrepiece of our offshore energy growth strategy and will begin operations immediately upon leaving the shipyard.”