ABB will provide the power and propulsion package for Allseas’ new 230 m semi-submersible heavy transport vessel Grand Tour, which is due to enter service in 2028.

Grand Tour is being built by Guangzhou Shipyard International and will support the offshore wind industry in Europe. The vessel will transport large offshore wind converter stations from fabricators in Asia to Allseas’ construction vessel Pioneering Spirit for installation.

The vessel will be capable of carrying up to 40,000 tonnes on its stern deck. For loading, the deck will be submerged below the waterline so that converter stations can be floated onboard before Grand Tour is positioned alongside Pioneering Spirit.

ABB will supply four 3.5 MW Azipod propulsion units as part of the package. The units can rotate 360 degrees, providing manoeuvrability and station-keeping capability during the operation.

The package will also include a medium-voltage power plant, a power and energy management system and remote condition monitoring.

ABB said the gearless Azipod units are designed to lower fuel use, noise, vibration and maintenance needs.