5.2 C
New York
Home Blog Page 35

Van Oord completes foundation installation at Sofia Offshore Wind Farm

By
Chief Editor
-
0

To execute the works, Van Oord deployed offshore wind installation vessel Aeolus, renowned for its capabilities in complex offshore wind operations.

The 1.4 GW Sofia Offshore Wind Farm, located on Dogger Bank in the central North Sea, will generate enough renewable energy to power approximately 1.2 million average UK households once operational. Van Oord’s engineering, procurement, construction and installation (EPCI) scope for the WTG foundations and array cables on the Sofia project underscores its commitment to advancing large-scale renewable energy infrastructure and accelerating the global energy transition. 

Roeland Ris, Project Director at Van Oord, said:

‘I am very proud that we have reached this significant milestone on the Sofia project. The project comes with its challenges, but I’m especially proud that we completed the foundation installation safely and diligently. This achievement reflects the dedication and professionalism of the project team and great cooperation with all partners involved.’

Van Oord is well underway with the installation and burial of approximately 360 kilometres of array cables, with completion expected in Q3 this year. The Sofia Offshore Wind Farm is expected to be operational in 2026.

Berg Propulsion marks decade of Nakkaş Shipping collaboration with 10th tanker contract

By
Chief Editor
-
0

The owner’s specification of Berg systems moved into double figures after Nakkaş ordered its latest 5,700 dwt tanker from Türkiye’s Gisan Shipyard. 

The 99.99m length, 16.6m breadth vessel will be built to the same Navis Design & Engineering lay-out as nine predecessors, which Nakkaş has ordered from multiple yards. In all cases, the main propulsion system, propeller and thrusters came from Berg.

“These ships have proved remarkably flexible in serving a range of operational needs on a variety of routes, due to their strong design and high performance systems,” said Emir Basak, Partner, Nakkaş Shipping. “Berg has been our propulsion systems partner from the outset.”

Featuring a 1920kW@750rpm main engine, the 10th ship in the series will operate at speeds of 11.5 knots. Berg’s scope of supply will include the Berg MPP850 main propulsion system, a 4000mm diameter propeller and one variable frequency drive MTT111FP tunnel thruster.

“Taking this series into double figures is a milestone for the trust placed in us by Nakkaş and a strong endorsement of Berg’s proven main offering from an ambitious shipping group,” said Taner Gündoğdu, Sales Manager, Berg Propulsion Eurasia. “We worked closely with Nakkaş and Navis on optimizing the first in the series and it has been truly rewarding to see Berg chosen time and again.”

With the ninth ship in the series due delivery in 2025, Berg will deliver equipment for its successor from its manufacturing facility in Hönö, Sweden to the Gisan yard in Istanbul by February 2026. The latest order for Berg Eurasia emphasizes Türkiye’s strong contribution to Berg’s overall growth, based on its expertise and longstanding relationships with owners, yards and designers. The Istanbul operation has secured substantial commercial ship, tug and naval orders, and offers contract engineering services while also taking regional responsibility for retrofits in the Middle East.

MSC Group Explora Journeys’ Fleet Construction Moves

By
Chief Editor
-
0

Full steam ahead for the construction of the Explora Journeys fleet: the luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group. Today, at Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard, three major ceremonies took place: the launching of Explora III, the coin ceremony for Explora IV, and the steel-cutting for Explora V.

Comprised of a total of six vessels – with the first two, Explora I and Explora II, already in service – the luxury brand’s fleet, entirely built by Fincantieri, will be fully operational within three years. Explora III will be christened next year, Explora IV and Explora V are scheduled for delivery in 2027, while Explora VI will take to the sea in 2028.

Admiral Pierpaolo Ribuffo, Head of the Department for Maritime Policies, stated: “Italy contributes to shaping the European maritime industrial strategy with renewed awareness, firmly supporting the outstanding excellence it expresses in shipbuilding and shipping.”

Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of Fincantieri’s Merchant Ships Division, stated: “The Explora Journeys fleet is a concrete example of how collaboration with the shipowner can translate into outstanding results, combining innovation, sustainability, and quality. Five of the six ships in the class are being built here in Sestri Ponente, a strategic asset in our production system and a symbol of an industrial vision focused on modern shipyards, green technologies, and highly complex processes.”

MSC Group’s investment for the six Explora Journeys ships, with five of them built at Sestri Ponente, amounts to approximately €3.5 billion. This investment generates significant economic, technological, and employment benefits in Italy, estimated at over €15 billion, thanks also to a predominantly Italian supply chain characterized by a strong presence of SMEs. In addition to these benefits, there is a significant tourism impact in the many ports visited by the vessels. The construction of each individual ship requires over seven million working hours and involves an average employment of 2,500 people over two to three years. Including the four ships previously ordered from Fincantieri and already delivered – MSC Seaside, MSC Seaview, MSC Seashore and MSC Seascape – MSC’s total investment now amounts to approximately €7 billion.

Fugro and Esri collaborate to advance climate resilience

By
Chief Editor
-
0

Fugro has entered into a strategic collaboration with Esri, the global leader in geographic information system (GIS) software, to provide integrated geospatial solutions that empower climate resilience decision-making and sustainable development.

Initially, the joint effort will focus on tackling the environmental challenges of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), starting with SIDS in the Caribbean. Nearly 22 million people in SIDS live less than six metres above sea level, placing communities and infrastructures at high risk from coastal hazards. Yet, data gaps remain a major barrier. Many countries don’t have access to timely, user-friendly, and coordinated environmental data systems, especially at the land-sea interface. Fugro and Esri are helping SIDS confront urgent coastal and marine threats while building the foundation for long-term resilience and sustainable development.

The initiative is met with enthusiasm by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and the PVBLIC Foundation, who are both actively advocating sustainable development support for SIDS in the region.

His Excellency Dr Didicus Jules of OECS said, “While high quality data is essential, it’s the insights derived from that data that empower our member states to make informed, timely and transformative decisions.”

The collaboration will combine Esri’s market-leading geographic information system (GIS) software- the mapping and location intelligence platform, with Fugro’s capabilities in satellite Earth observation, high-resolution surveys, in situ measurements, and predictive modelling, to deliver end-to-end geospatial solutions. Central to this integration is Fugro’s VirGeo® platform, which will serve as the core system for managing and analysing Geo-data. Together, these technologies will provide decision-makers with timely, actionable insights to support smarter, faster, and more resilient planning to face their challenges.

Mark Heine, CEO Fugro said, “Partnering with Esri reinforces our shared vision: transforming geospatial intelligence into meaningful impact. By uniting Fugro’s Geo-data expertise with Esri’s renowned GIS technology, we’re equipping island nations with the tools to navigate climate risks and shape a more resilient, sustainable future.”

The integrated solutions from Fugro and Esri are designed to be scalable and also adaptable to other sectors and regions. These could include offshore wind, maritime security, sustainable infrastructure, and nature conservation.

DEME installs Dieppe Le Tréport offshore substation

By
Chief Editor
-
0

This key milestone for the EMDT project, one of Ocean Winds’ three offshore wind farms currently under construction in France, was achieved in collaboration with French and European industry partners, advancing the country’s offshore wind ambitions.

July 2nd, 2025. Dieppe, France. Ocean Winds (OW), an international company dedicated to offshore wind energy and created as a 50-50 joint venture by EDP Renewables and ENGIE, announces the successful installation of the offshore electrical substation for the Dieppe – Le Tréport offshore wind farm (EMDT), project in consortium with Sumitomo Corporation and Banque des Territoires.

This important milestone represents a decisive step forward in the offshore construction of the project and an achievement made possible by close collaboration between experienced French and European industry leaders. Designed and built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique at its Saint-Nazaire shipyard, the substation highlights the strength of the French offshore wind industrial sector. Its foundation, a steel jacket structure, was supplied by Navantia in Spain, and the installation operation at sea was carried out by DEME with its installation vessel Gulliver.

Once operational, the substation will collect the renewable electricity generated by the wind farm’s 62 turbines and transfer it to shore via the grid connection infrastructure developed by Réseau de Transport d’Électricité (RTE), operator of the French national electricity transmission system.

Marc Hirt, Country Manager for Ocean Winds in France, declared: “Following the first power of the EMYN project last month and our continued progress on EFGL, the successful installation of the Dieppe – Le Tréport offshore substation is another significant milestone for Ocean Winds, and a further demonstration of the momentum building across France’s offshore wind sector. It also reflects the trust placed in us by the French State to contribute to the country’s energy transition, supported by a robust French and European industrial supply chain.”

The complex offshore operation was completed over several days, bringing together expert teams from the project, its contractors, and partners.

Frédéric Grizaud, Director of the Marine Energies Business Unit at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, said: “This extremely precise and well-prepared phase ends 24 months of construction of the Dieppe-Le Tréport topside at our Saint-Nazaire site. Through this project, we continue to strengthen Chantiers de l’Atlantique’s position as a key player in marine renewable energy in Europe. We are thankful to Eoliennes en mer Dieppe Le Tréport (EMDT) for their trust, as well as to all the teams involved. Now their mission goes on with the completion of offshore works, testings, and then the energization of the substation.”

Frédéric Flaus, Project Director for EMDT, added: “This milestone is the result of months of rigorous preparation, technical expertise, and close coordination between all those involved. The arrival and installation of the substation not only marks the start of the project’s visible presence at sea but also brings us a step closer to delivering clean, renewable energy to the region. I want to thank our teams, partners and suppliers for their dedication and professionalism in delivering this decisive phase safely and successfully.”

Once fully operational, the Dieppe – Le Tréport offshore wind farm will generate electricity equivalent to the annual consumption of around 850,000 people, supporting France’s renewable energy ambitions and strengthening Europe’s offshore wind leadership.

Stena Bulk prepares to reflag first Suezmax under Swedish flag

By
Chief Editor
-
0

The first vessel – Stena Sunrise – is now fully prepared for reflagging, which is scheduled to take place in Singapore at the end of July 2025.

This milestone follows the company’s original ambition to complete all preparatory steps by June 30th – a goal that has now been fulfilled. Only the final practical steps remain, to be executed during the in-port flag change of Stena Sunrise. This has been made possible thanks to the excellent and proactive cooperation with Swedish authorities, government officials, and trade unions, all of whom have worked in close partnership with Stena Bulk throughout the process.

This reflagging initiative reflects Stena Bulk’s strong commitment to strengthening the Swedish maritime sector and leveraging the improved competitiveness of Sweden as a flag state. In recent years, reforms such as the removal of stamp duty on ship registration, the development of a more competitive tonnage tax regime, and improvements to the Swedish Ship Register have provided a solid foundation for shipowners to make long-term investment decisions under the Swedish flag.

Currently, there are no Suezmax tankers registered in Sweden. By flagging five such vessels in the country, Stena Bulk will not only close this gap but also contribute to Sweden’s strategic resilience and maritime readiness in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. 

Stena Sunrise is the first of the five Suezmaxes to transition. The remaining four vessels will follow, each at a time and location that makes sense from an operational and administrative perspective. The company will carry out each reflagging in conjunction with the vessels’ commercial routing and in-port availability, ensuring smooth execution.

Throughout this initiative, Stena Bulk has placed strong emphasis on ensuring safe and efficient operations. The company has worked in close collaboration with relevant Swedish stakeholders to address crewing, compliance, and technical aspects. These efforts underline the company’s commitment to translating strategy into practical, high-standard execution.

Erik Hånell, President & CEO of Stena Bulk, commented:

“We are proud to say that our ambition has been fulfilled. With Stena Sunrise set for reflagging in the coming days, we are delivering on our plan. This could not have been done without the truly constructive and forward-leaning collaboration we’ve had with the Swedish authorities, trade unions, and the government. Together, we have not only moved fast, but we’ve done so with great professionalism and shared purpose.”

The presence of these vessels under the Swedish flag will contribute to the broader development of Sweden’s maritime sector, including the creation of new opportunities for Swedish seafarers, officers, and maritime professionals. 

KEYS Azalea bunkered LNG for the cruise ship ASUKA III

By
Chief Editor
-
0

On July 14, KEYS Azalea, an LNG bunkering vessel owned and operated by KEYS Bunkering West Japan Ltd. (“KEYS”) bunkered LNG for the cruise ship ASUKA III by Ship-to-Ship at Chuo Wharf in Hakata port.

Until now, KEYS Azalea has bunkered for car carriers and iron ore and coal bulk carriers, this is the first bunkering for Cruise Ship for KEYS Azalea and in Japan.

KEYS will continue to provide safe and stable LNG bunkering and contribute to forming a carbon-neutral society and developing the LNG bunkering business in Japan.

Baltic Sea demonstration showcases Saildrone capabilities for NATO task Force X Baltic

By
Chief Editor
-
0

Saildrone has successfully concluded its participation in NATO Task Force X’s multi-domain demonstration in the Baltic Sea—a landmark deployment showcasing the capability, reliability, and international utility of its Saildrone Voyager uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs).

From June 16 to 27, 2025, four Saildrone Voyagers operated in both the Gulf of Finland and the western Baltic Sea as part of NATO’s innovative Task Force X Baltic initiative. Led by NATO Allied Command Transformation (ACT), in coordination with NATO Maritime Command (MARCOM) and the Centre for Maritime Research and Experimentation (CMRE), the demonstration aimed to integrate uncrewed systems into active Allied maritime operations.

“We are honored to have participated in the NATO Task Force X Baltic Initiative. After eight years of operating Saildrone USVs in the Bering Sea, we are well placed to deal with the conditions in the Baltic Sea, which has very similar latitude, water depths, and sea conditions,” said Saildrone founder and CEO Richard Jenkins. “Task Force X Baltic has been fantastic to work with, and we look forward to future missions with NATO partners.”

Throughout the operation, the Saildrone Voyagers maintained a 100% persistent presence on station, delivering 24/7 wide-area surveillance and real-time maritime domain awareness, including continued operations during recent passage of near-gale to gale-force winds and rough seas with waves over 2 meters (6.5 feet) through the area of operation. Saildrone detected and tracked hundreds of vessels daily, and successfully identified the exercises’ “red forces.” Additionally, Saildrone identified real-world dark targets in the area, including Russian “shadow fleet” and military vessels.

Another important success of the deployment was pairing Saildrone’s long-range radar and persistent surveillance capability with high-speed unmanned maritime assets. The Voyagers’ ability to detect contacts of interest at extended range enabled rapid-response investigations by fast-moving uncrewed vessels, demonstrating a layered, autonomous force structure capable of responding to dynamic maritime scenarios in real time.

The four Voyager USVs were deployed from Køge, Denmark, earlier this month. Saildrone operates on a contractor-owned and operated model, meaning it provides end-to-end mission operations and data delivery as a service. This approach enables rapid deployment, scalability, and reduced burden on government or commercial partners.

Saildrone data is integrated into the customer’s common operating picture (COP) and is also available via the Saildrone Mission Portal. 

UAV carrier and kamikaze: Ukraine developed a small river drone called Ursula

By
Chief Editor
-
0

The Association of Ukrainian Engineers announced that NoviTechNet is developing the drone.

Its versatile design allows it to perform several tasks simultaneously.

In particular, the drone can conduct reconnaissance, monitoring rivers, canals, and coastal areas.

Ursula is also capable of performing kamikaze drone functions, carrying explosive charges to destroy enemy targets.

Additionally, the boat can transport a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which conserves the UAV’s battery power and enables it to operate in unexpected locations.

“This drone is suitable for sabotage and reconnaissance operations in difficult conditions of river networks and frontline water areas,” the association shared.

Similar technology

This is not the first small unmanned boat in Ukraine. This year, the Defense Forces began testing small river unmanned boats called Black Widow 2.

Black Widow 2 is also 1 meter long. It weighs 8 kg, can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h, and has a range of up to 10 km.

The onboard battery is sufficient for several hours of operation, but if necessary, the boat can be put into standby mode for several days while waiting for a target.

The drone is equipped with a camera on a rotating platform that can rotate both horizontally and vertically. The camera can also operate at night.

Controlling an electric boat only 1 meter long seems like child’s play, but the vessel is more dangerous than you might think. In addition to spy and reconnaissance missions, the river drone can be loaded with kilograms of explosives. Its payload is 3 kg, which, according to the developer, is enough to destroy small boats and motorboats.

Source: Militarnyi

Woodside, Hyundai Engineering, and Hyundai Glovis to explore opportunities across LNG value chain

By
Chief Editor
-
0

Woodside Energy has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Hyundai Engineering and Hyundai Glovis, establishing a strategic framework to collaborate on LNG project development, engineering services, and shipping logistics.

The MoU will see the parties focus on advancing execution capability and extending their reach into priority LNG markets.

Woodside Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Mark Abbotsford, said: “Woodside is pleased to be deepening our longstanding relationship with Hyundai through this agreement. We are confident the synergies and complementary strengths of our organisations will support the delivery of high quality LNG solutions to meet growing global demand.”

Hyundai Engineering Chief Operating Officer, Myoung-Kun Son, added: “This agreement allows Hyundai Engineering to broaden our global LNG experience by working alongside a world-class LNG developer. We are confident in our ability to add value across the full engineering spectrum and deliver integrated solutions for Woodside projects.”

Hyundai Glovis Head of Logistics Business Division, Taewoo Kim, concluded: “We are proud to partner with Woodside to explore long-term maritime solutions that support reliable LNG supply. Our global shipping footprint and expertise make us well-positioned to contribute to this strategic collaboration.”

The combination of Woodside’s success in LNG development, Hyundai Engineering’s extensive engineering, procurement and construction experience, and Hyundai Glovis’s global shipping reach positions the parties to respond to growing LNG demand across Asia-Pacific markets and selected new regions.

1...343536...1,329Page 35 of 1,329
Premium Content

© 2025 SeaWanderer. All Rights Reserved. Powered by Maritime.Studio