DeepOcean cable-lay vessel Maersk Connector has arrived in the northeast of England for mobilisation ahead of offshore wind work in Belgium.
The long-term charter will be fitted with specialist cable-handling equipment before reporting for duty on infield wires for the job on Nobelwind’s 165MW Belwind 2.
Connector will then move onto Dong’s 660MW Walney 3 in the Irish Sea.
DeepOcean said the vessel (pictured) is the only one of its kind with the ability to ground when fully loaded, allowing for installation of cables from the beach, in shallow and deep waters.
This key enabling capability, which was developed in cooperation between the vessel builder Damen and DeepOcean, “represents key progression in the drive towards improved offshore efficiencies”.
Mobilisation will take place at the A&P Tyne yard. Work will include fitting of an advanced split capacity carousel produced by Parkburn Precision Handling Systems. Connector will report for duty off Belgium in summer with a crew of 90.
DeepOcean has also engaged IHC to deliver an advanced cable plough for the vessel, which will be fitted later in the year at the Port of Blyth for projects in 2017.
DeepOcean commercial director Pierre Boyde said: “We are extremely proud of the Maersk Connector, which demonstrates the benefits of close collaboration and innovative design and engineering.
“It also proves the value of the UK supply chain and the quality of the businesses serving the international offshore sector.”
Image: DeepOcean
