Damen Shipyards has delivered a new DP2 cable installation vessel to Maersk Supply Service.
The Maersk Connector is based on Damen’s 8500 platform and has been customised to reduce costs in Maersk’s offshore renewables work.
It was built at Damen’s Galati shipyard in Romania and measures 138 metres with a 27.5 metre beam.
The vessel’s first assignment is to a long-term charter for subsea services provider DeepOcean.
“We’ve already been awarded three UK and North Sea contracts for Maersk Connector, so we’re very satisfied,” said DeepOcean’s Commercial Director Pierre Boyde.
“The working relationship has been productive and Damen has delivered a state-of-the-art cable installation vessel.”
Boyde added: “Maersk Connector is fine-tuned around DeepOcean’s 20 years’ experience of installing and trenching more than 1,000 kilometres of power cable and backed up with Maersk Supply Service’s long pedigree of superior marine operations.”
Maersk’s Chief Commercial Officer Søren Karas said: “Maersk Connector is the result of a successful tri-party cooperation between a quality yard, an experienced subsea service provider and a leading vessel owner and marine operator.
“Throughout the process there was close communication between all parties, focused on finding solutions.”
He added: “Maersk Supply Service is very happy with the outcome resulting from this cooperation; the vessel has been delivered on time, on budget and the quality is good. We are excited to embark on the long term cooperation with DeepOcean supporting their subsea operations.”
Image: the DOC 8500 cable lay vessel (Damen)
