DFO SELECTS VARD TO DELIVER NEXT-GENERATION COMMISSIONING SERVICE OPERATION VESSEL

Built to support future offshore wind ambitions

The order underlines the growing strategic partnership between the two companies and follows the two Commissioning Service Operations vessels contracted in May 2024, and the additional two, one of them an Offshore Construction Subsea vessel, in 2025 (April and May). This fifth new build contract demonstrates once again that VARD is a trusted partner with high reliability for designing, constructing and delivering vessels on time and of world-class quality.

The new vessel will be a highly versatile offshore platform, engineered to deliver subsea operations, offshore wind installation and maintenance operations, as well as cable installation and repair scopes in the offshore wind and power cable sectors. Combining an optimized hull form with a powerful propulsion configuration, the vessel is designed for excellent seakeeping, reduced motions and accelerations, and strong station-keeping performance. Its efficient machinery and battery-hybrid propulsion setup support improved workability, operational reliability and a reduced environmental footprint in line with VARD’s and owner Fincantieri’s ambitions of leading the technological and environmental development in the maritime industry.

With significant design flexibility the vessel is equipped for demanding offshore assignments. The vessel will feature an option for 70 MT active heave compensated offshore crane for subsea operations, a 700 m2 work deck prepared for cable-lay and repair spread and an ROV Launch and recovery system (LARS). In addition, the vessel is prepared for the integration of a helideck. Altogether, this provides DFO with a scalable platform for long-term market opportunities.

Designed with comfort, productivity and efficient onboard operations in mind, the vessel will include 90 cabins with accommodation for 120 people. Operational areas such as offices, briefing rooms, conference room/cinema, and dayrooms are designed to a high market standard, with premium interior solutions delivered by Vard Interiors.

We are very happy to make a repeat order with VARD for a new CSOV that has the option for subsea capability, allowing DFO to deliver more comprehensive subsea solutions for our regional offshore wind and energy customers across the lifecycle of their projects.  We have been impressed by the quality and capability of Vard Vung Tau and look forward to receiving another newbuild that will meet the high levels of comfort and quality required by our customers,

says Polin Chen, CEO of DFO.

Powered by VARD’s integrated value chain

VARD will deliver the full project through its integrated value chain, covering design, hull construction, outfitting, integration, commissioning and delivery, ensuring quality, coordination and execution from concept to completed vessel.

Vard Electro will deliver a fully integrated power and automation system designed to enhance total system efficiency and support optimal environmental performance. The system will be monitored by SeaQ Green Pilot, enabling digital vessel data to be collected and made accessible through Vard Electro’s cloud service for office-based insight and follow-up.

The vessel will also feature the market-leading SeaQ Bridge, giving operators comprehensive oversight and control of onboard systems from one location. By supporting more digital and streamlined ship operations, SeaQ Bridge helps enhance safety, efficiency and decision-making on board.

For this vessel, Vard Interiors will provide a complete package of HVAC-R, piping, and interior solutions. The delivery includes systems and spaces designed to meet the demands of modern maritime operations, combining functionality, quality, and comfort. The delivery will support operational efficiency and create attractive, practical onboard environments tailored to the vessel's mission and end users

This contract is another strong confirmation of VARD’s ability and proven track record in delivering advanced vessels on time and on budget. Together with our owner Fincantieri, we work with customers worldwide to develop tailor-made vessels that meet their specific ambitions, operational needs and market opportunities. This vessel has been developed through a close and constructive process with DFO. We are proud that DFO has once again chosen VARD as its partner and look forward to continuing our strong collaboration in the years to come,

says Roger Sandnes, SVP Sales in VARD and responsible for the commercial part of the contract.

The hull will be built, outfitted, tested and delivered from Vard Vung Tau in Vietnam. Delivery is scheduled for Q3 2028.

Overall technical information:

• Length of 102.5 meters and a beam of 19.5 meters
• 32m ECMC Gangway System (W2W)
• 3D Motion Compensated ECMC Crane (C25)
• Option for 70 MT active heave compensated Offshore Crane
• 700 m² work deck
• Prepared for Cable Repair and Installation spread
• Prepared for ROV Launch and Recovery operations
• Stern boat landing and in addition a mobilizational side landing.
• Boat landing cranes
• Max speed 14 knots
• DP2 dynamic positioning system

About DFO

DFO (Dong Fang Offshore) is a specialized company focused on offshore maritime engineering solutions, headquartered in Taiwan. We operate a wide range of engineering vessels, from small vessels (27 meters) to large cable-laying ships (130 meters) with a total of 17 ships operated or under construction. We are also dedicated to providing full lifecycle services for offshore wind farms—from initial exploration to construction and long-term operations and maintenance. Dong Fang Offshore has played a major role in many phases of offshore projects, especially in cable installation, where DFO is one of Taiwan’s leading contractors.  The company is listed on the Taiwanese Emerging Stock Board.

About VARD

VARD is one of the major global designers and shipbuilders of specialized vessels. Headquartered in Norway and with approximately 9,000 employees, VARD operates shipbuilding facilities in Norway, Romania, Brazil, and Vietnam. Through its specialized subsidiaries, VARD develops power and automation systems, deck handling equipment, and vessel accommodation solutions, and provides design and engineering services to the global maritime industry.  

VARD’s long shipbuilding traditions, cutting-edge innovation and technology coupled with its global operations and track record in constructing complex and highly customized vessels have earned it recognition from industry players and enabled it to build strong relationships with its customers.  

Fincantieri Oil & Gas S.p.A, a wholly owned subsidiary of FINCANTIERI S.p.A. Headquartered in Trieste, Italy, is majority shareholder of VARD with around 98 % of the shares. FINCANTIERI is one of the world’s largest shipbuilding groups, the only player active in all high complexity marine industry sectors. The Group is a global leader in the construction of cruise ships and naval and offshore vessels and stands out for its extensive experience in the development of underwater solutions, thanks to its integrated industrial structure capable of managing and coordinating all activities related to the commercial, defense, and dual-use sectors. With over 230 years of history and more than 7,000 ships built, Fincantieri today has a production network of 18 shipyards operating worldwide and over 24,000 employees.  

www.vard.com