Green Yard Kleven has delivered the converted and reactivated Oceanicasub XVII to Brazil’s Oceanica, marking their fifth joint project. The AHTS vessel was transformed into a specialized ROV support ship with new mezzanine decks and LARS systems. This lifetime extension project highlights the maritime industry’s move toward circular value chains and sustainable fleet expansion.
Norway | March 17, 2026 – Green Yard Kleven has successfully completed the conversion and reactivation of the AHTS vessel Oceanicasub XVII, marking the fifth successful collaboration between the Norwegian shipyard and the Brazilian subsea specialist, Oceanica.
The vessel, originally built at the same yard as the Rem Balder, has now begun its transit to Brazil to begin subsea operations. This project underscores a growing industry shift toward vessel “lifespan extensions” as a sustainable alternative to newbuilds.
Technical Transformation: From AHTS to ROV Support
The conversion has significantly expanded the vessel’s operational capabilities. Key technical upgrades include:
- ROV Integration: Installation of a new ROV LARS (Launch and Recovery System).
- Structural Additions: Two new mezzanine decks were installed to support subsea equipment.
- Capacity Expansion: Modernization and expansion of onboard accommodation and office facilities for specialized crew.
- Complete Overhaul: Comprehensive maintenance of all motors, thrusters, and cranes to ensure peak operational efficiency for its new lifecycle.
Circular Value in Action
The project was executed with a heavy focus on the “Circular Value Chain,” a core pillar for the Green Yard Group. By retrofitting an existing hull rather than commissioning a new vessel, Oceanica has significantly reduced the environmental footprint associated with steel production and heavy manufacturing.
“Lifetime extension, retrofit, and conversions have a significant impact on reducing environmental footprint while also reducing cost and delivery time,” said Karl Johan Barstad, CCO of Green Yard.
Collaborative Ecosystem
The success of the Oceanicasub XVII was supported by a cluster of specialized Norwegian maritime firms, including Marin Teknikk, Volti, and Ulmatec, with Tschudi Ship Management overseeing the vessel and crew during the yard stay.
Green Yard Kleven: The Circular Shipyard
Based in Ulsteinvik, Norway, Green Yard Kleven is part of the Green Yard Group (alongside Green Yard Feda). The yard has redefined itself as a leader in the “Circular Value Chain” for shipping.
- Core Philosophy: Instead of focusing solely on newbuilds, Green Yard specializes in Lifetime Extensions, Retrofits, and Sustainable Recycling.
- Sustainability Focus: By choosing to reactivate and convert existing hulls, Green Yard helps owners avoid the massive carbon footprint associated with new steel production.
- Versatility: The yard currently manages complex projects for global players like TGS, Next Geosolutions, and OMV Petrom, proving their ability to handle everything from seismic vessels to oil and gas infrastructure.
Source: Green Yard Kleven