Island Offshore‘s second hybrid-powered ocean energy construction vessel (OECV), Island Explorer, has arrived in Norway to undergo final outfitting and commissioning at VARD‘s Langsten shipyard ahead of its planned delivery in the first quarter of 2027.
The vessel, designated NB 978, reached Norway on 18 October after being transferred from Vard Shipyards Romania – Tulcea, where its hull was built. The arrival completes the transfer to Norway for the remaining construction work, according to Offshore Energy.
Island Explorer was launched at the Romanian shipyard in September 2026 before being towed to Vard Langsten. The vessel will be completed alongside its sister ship, Island Evolution (NB 977), which arrived at the Norwegian yard on 29 July 2026.
Both vessels are based on the VARD 3 25 design, developed jointly by VARD and Island Offshore. Each measures 120 metres in length and 25 metres in beam, with a hull configuration designed for offshore operations requiring dynamic positioning and manoeuvrability.
The vessels are designed for subsea inspection, maintenance and repair (IMR), pipeline installation, subsea construction and installation, diving support and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) operations.
They are also prepared for offshore renewable energy assignments, including cable installation and repair, trenching, surveying, commissioning and walk-to-work operations.
The technical configuration includes a 250-tonne heave-compensated subsea crane, DP2 dynamic positioning capability and two launch-and-recovery systems for ROVs. The vessels are also prepared for the installation of a walk-to-work gangway.
Their hybrid propulsion systems incorporate battery energy storage, while the engines are designed to accommodate alternative low-emission fuels. A heat recovery system is also included in the technical specification.
Vard Electro is responsible for supplying the SeaQ electrical, automation and communication systems, including energy storage, shore-power connection and integrated bridge equipment. Vard Interiors will provide interior outfitting and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems.
Island Offshore placed its initial order with VARD in May 2024 for one hybrid OECV, together with options for two additional vessels.
In August 2024, the shipowner exercised the first option for a second vessel, subsequently named Island Explorer.
Construction of the two ships has followed separate schedules. The keel of Island Evolution was laid in May 2025, followed by the keel laying of Island Explorer in September 2025 at Vard Shipyards Romania – Tulcea.
The vessels are being completed under VARD‘s construction programme, with hull fabrication undertaken in Romania and final outfitting, commissioning and delivery taking place in Norway.
Island Explorer is the 41st vessel in the shipbuilding relationship between VARD and Island Offshore, according to the shipbuilder.
Island Offshore has indicated that Island Evolution is expected to be delivered in January 2027, while Island Explorer is scheduled for delivery on 31 March 2027.
