The lead unit in a two-ship Commissioning Service Operation Vessel (CSOV) series for JP Morgan Asset Management has reached the launch stage at Norwegian yard Ulstein Verft under a two-vessel contract signed in January 2024. The agreement also includes options for two additional CSOVs dedicated to offshore wind work.
Based on the SX222 design from Ulstein Verft, the yet-unnamed CSOVs are configured specifically for offshore wind farm support. Each vessel will feature a walk-to-work gangway with motion compensation, a lift tower, a 3D crane with motion compensation, together with upgraded onboard logistics arrangements. This equipment package is arranged to support maintenance, operational support, and construction tasks at offshore wind installations.
The two hulls were fabricated at the Crist yard in Poland and then towed to Norway for final outfitting and completion. Delivery of the vessels is scheduled within the current year.
Late last week, the first SX222 hull was moved out of the enclosed construction hall to an external dock. At this location, the yard’s heavy-lift team installed the tower structure using a crawler crane rated at up to 600 t. On Wednesday, the vessel was shifted again and secured alongside the quay for continued work, while the second CSOV, hull number 323, remained inside the hall for continued outfitting work.
