Marco Polo Marine, a Singapore-based offshore vessel operator and shipyard, will construct a new commissioning support vessel (CSOV) specifically designed for the offshore wind and oil and gas markets.
Marco Polo Marine has selected Norwegian ship design firm Salt Ship Design to collaborate on the design of a new vessel type named “CSOV Plus.” The design contract was awarded to Salt Ship Design by Marco Polo Marine’s Taiwan-based subsidiary, PKR Offshore. This marks the first collaborative contract between Salt Ship Design and Marco Polo Marine/PKR Offshore, as well as Marco Polo Shipyard.
Marco Polo Marine claims that the CSOV Plus is the first CSOV specifically designed and built from the keel up for dual operations in both offshore wind power and oil and gas sectors.
The vessel can support the entire lifecycle of offshore wind projects, encompassing commissioning and ongoing operations, including construction, cable laying, maintenance and technician transfers. Its comprehensive capabilities make it suitable not only for offshore wind power but also for the oil and gas industry.
The company also said that the vessel directly responds to market demand for versatile and efficient offshore assets, achieving breakthroughs by integrating advanced wind farm support systems with mature oil and gas related capabilities, while maximizing operating time and creating a significant competitive advantage.
The vessel features a walk-to-work gangway and excellent station-keeping and maneuverability, enabling safe crew transfers in wave heights up to 3 meters. It will be equipped with a battery-hybrid powertrain, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions while also being adaptable to alternative fuels, including methanol. This provides customers with an environmentally friendly maritime solution while meeting evolving environmental regulations.
The vessel is also equipped with a 100-ton active heave-compensated crane capable of handling heavy subsea equipment and wind farm components. The owner describes it as having “spacious” deck space for cargo storage and project customization. It is equipped with a flexible cargo lifting system that supports loads of 3 to 10 tons and has full 3D compensation capabilities.