Rotterdam, the Netherlands – 21 July 2025 – Van Oord, a world leader in marine engineering, has announced a major investment in its Subsea Rock Installation (SRI) fleet to meet the soaring global demand for offshore energy infrastructure protection and reinforce its sustainability ambitions. The company has ordered two state-of-the-art vessels designed to significantly enhance operational efficiency while minimizing environmental impact.
The first vessel is expected to enter service in 2028, with the second to follow approximately one year later. These cutting-edge vessels are designed for dual-fuel operation — capable of running on methanol and biofuels — and feature next-level automation, digitalization, and emission-reduction technologies.
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Elevating the Standard in Subsea Rock Installation
Van Oord pioneered the technique of Subsea Rock Installation in the 1970s and remains a global market leader in seabed intervention. The technique is critical for the protection and long-term stabilization of offshore energy infrastructure such as pipelines, interconnectors, subsea cables, and wind turbine foundations.
The two new vessels mark a step-change in SRI capabilities. Each will boast an impressive 35,000-tonne loading capacity, capable of transporting and placing large rock sizes with exceptional precision. Their size and endurance are optimized for long-distance operations, minimizing round trips for resupply — a key contributor to lower fuel consumption and operational costs.
Central to their advanced functionality is a DP-2 (Dynamic Positioning Class 2) system, a high-precision thruster-and-sensor-based system that enables the vessel to maintain exact position and heading in dynamic sea conditions, including strong waves, currents, and wind. This precision is essential for accurate and safe rock placement, particularly in complex or congested seabed environments.
Maurits den Broeder, Managing Director Offshore Energy at Van Oord, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment “Van Oord is at the forefront of the energy transition. Through innovative technologies and long-term investments, we actively contribute to greater energy security and energy independence for countries. Particularly in times when securing critical underwater infrastructure is a priority, this investment is important. These new vessels embody our commitment to innovation, safety, sustainability and efficiency, while supporting the growing demands of our clients and our own net-zero ambitions.”
Pushing the Boundaries of Sustainable Marine Engineering
At the heart of the vessel design is a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and carbon reduction. Each vessel will feature:
- Multi-fuel engines capable of operating on methanol and biofuels
- An advanced DC-electric grid system with large battery storage, enabling energy optimization and peak shaving
- A highly energy-efficient hull and rock handling system, designed for minimal drag and operational energy use
Together, these systems aim to deliver a substantial reduction in CO₂ emissions, directly supporting Van Oord’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions across scope 1, 2, and 3 by 2050 — in line with the EU Green Deal and the Paris Agreement.
Built for the Future, Built on Experience
The newbuilds will build upon the solid operational track record of Van Oord’s existing SRI fleet — Stornes, Nordnes, and Bravenes — integrating lessons learned and technological upgrades to respond to emerging offshore demands.
Construction of the vessels will be undertaken by Yantai CIMC Raffles Offshore in China, a shipyard renowned for its capacity to deliver complex offshore assets to exacting specifications. The collaboration ensures a focus on quality, sustainability, and future-proofed capabilities.
Strategic Investment in Energy Security and Infrastructure Resilience
As the global energy landscape transitions rapidly toward offshore renewables and intercontinental subsea connectivity, the need to protect these valuable underwater assets becomes more critical. Van Oord’s investment underscores its long-term vision to lead in both technical excellence and environmental responsibility.
This move also reflects broader maritime sector trends, where green propulsion, automation, and carbon accountability are becoming essential standards for vessel construction and operations
About Van Oord
Van Oord is a leading international marine contractor specializing in dredging, infrastructure, and offshore energy projects. With over 155 years of experience, Van Oord has established itself as an innovative partner for clients worldwide, creating the infrastructure for the world of tomorrow.
The increasing global population, rising demand for energy, and the need for enhanced port facilities and climate-resilient coastal areas present significant challenges. Van Oord addresses these challenges by providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the needs of today and anticipate the demands of the future.
As a Dutch family-owned company, Van Oord is characterized by visible leadership, a long-term vision, and a strong financial foundation. The company makes substantial investments in people and equipment, ensuring the continuity and growth of its business. Van Oord’s team comprises dedicated, entrepreneurial professionals who are passionate about water and technology. Through cooperation, openness, and honesty, they build mutual trust and respect, achieving the best possible results.
What sets Van Oord apart is its marine ingenuity. This core value defines what the company does, how it operates, and what makes it unique. As a passionate, smart, and resourceful international marine contractor, Van Oord believes in the power of teamwork and is committed to being One Team, worldwide.
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