VARD has launched NB 977, the first hybrid ocean energy construction vessel (OECV) ordered by Island Offshore, at its Brăila yard in Romania on 9 February.
The 120 m vessel is built to the VARD 3 25 design and is configured for subsea inspection, maintenance and repair (IMR), pipe laying, seabed construction and installation work, diving support, and operations using remotely operated systems. The vessel is equipped with a 250-t heave-compensated subsea crane, DP2 dynamic positioning, and accommodation for up to 120 personnel.
Following the launch at Vard Shipyards Romania – Brăila, outfitting work is continuing locally. The hull is scheduled to transfer to Vard Langsten in Norway in June for final outfitting and completion.
The vessel is named Island Evolution. The design and construction contract for the first hybrid-powered OECV was signed in May 2024, including options for two additional units. An order for the second vessel, Island Explorer, was confirmed three months later.
Keel laying for Island Evolution took place in May 2025, while the keel for the second vessel was laid in September 2025.
Island Offshore has cooperated with VARD for more than 20 years. Hulls have been constructed in Brăila and Tulcea before transfer to Norway for completion. Roy Viggo Fjørtoft, Project Manager at Island Offshore, stated that long-term cooperation and structured project management have supported consistent execution across the company’s vessel newbuild programs.
