According to Vard and Norwind Offshore, the ECV represents a new class of vessel designed specifically for the construction, maintenance, and servicing of offshore wind farms. Developed jointly by the two companies, the vessel is based on the VARD 3 11 design, engineered to meet the operational needs of both the offshore wind and subsea sectors. It will be capable of supporting a wide range of activities, including pipe inspection, maintenance and repair operations, as well as the construction and installation of subsea and topside infrastructure.
Vard stated that the ECV is expected to play a key role in the growing global offshore wind market, addressing the increasing demand for advanced vessels capable of performing multiple construction and maintenance tasks under challenging marine conditions. The shipbuilder emphasized that the vessel’s design focuses on efficiency, safety, and sustainability, incorporating the latest technologies to improve offshore operational performance.
The ECV will be the first construction vessel Vard builds equipped with a permanently installed motion-compensated gangway for walk-to-work operations. The system features an electrically controlled motion-compensated (ECMC) gangway integrated with a 3D compensated crane function, ensuring safe and efficient personnel and cargo transfer between the vessel and offshore structures.
To further expand its operational capacity, particularly in support of renewable energy projects, the vessel will also be fitted with a 150-tonne motion-compensated offshore crane. This heavy-lifting capability will enable it to handle large components used in wind farm construction and maintenance, enhancing its versatility across different offshore applications.
The construction, outfitting, commissioning, and delivery of the first ECV will take place entirely at the Vard Vung Tau shipyard in Vietnam. Delivery of the vessel is scheduled for the second quarter of 2027. Both Vard and Norwind Offshore expressed confidence that the project will set a new benchmark for innovation in offshore vessel design and support the accelerating global shift toward renewable energy development.
By combining Vard’s shipbuilding expertise with Norwind Offshore’s operational experience in the offshore wind sector, the two companies aim to introduce a new generation of energy construction vessels capable of meeting future industry demands. The project reflects their shared commitment to advancing maritime technology and supporting the continued growth of the offshore renewable energy market.
