Boskalis reported that its subsea rock installation vessel Seapiper has started its first installation project in Europe, operating in the North Sea. Before commencing work, the vessel loaded more than 13,800 tons of rock in Norway, marking a notable development for a ship that has been primarily active in Taiwan and Australia in recent years.

Although this assignment is Seapiper’s first European project in its current configuration, the vessel has been active in the region in a previous role. When operating under its former name, Fjell, it served as a semi-submersible heavy transport vessel, moving multiple heavy cargoes across the world. Since that period, the ship has undergone several modifications to support its subsea rock-installation function. The upgrades include hull adjustments aimed at reducing resistance during sailing and maneuvering, improvements to accommodation spaces, and a full deck reconstruction featuring a moonpool, fallpipe tower, and an inclined fallpipe at the aft.

With these changes in place, Seapiper has now returned to Europe and is carrying out rock installation work through a joint venture with DEME Group, installing many tens of thousands of tons of rock for Equinor.