VARD has secured a EUR 220 million+ contract from Trinity House to design and build two next-generation, methanol-ready multi-function Buoy and Lighthouse maintenance vessels. Scheduled for delivery in 2029, the VARD 9 601 ships will feature advanced hybrid-electric propulsion, robust dynamic positioning capabilities, and integrated cybersecurity to modernize critical UK maritime safety infrastructure.
Alesund, Norway | July 22,2026 – In a major milestone for European specialized shipbuilding and maritime infrastructure, VARD, a subsidiary of the Fincantieri Group, has been awarded a contract valued in excess of EUR 220 million by British maritime safety organization Trinity House.
The landmark deal will see VARD design and construct two advanced, multi-function Buoy and Lighthouse maintenance vessels under the VARD 9 601 design. Won following a rigorous, highly competitive public tender, the project represents VARD’s first contract of this specific class and marks a crucial phase in Trinity House’s “Futures Afloat” fleet renewal program, replacing the aging THV Patricia and THV Galatea.
Powering the Maritime Energy Transition
Engineered specifically to future-proof critical marine infrastructure in UK waters, the VARD 9 601 vessels are packed with state-of-the-art green propulsion and environmental technologies:
- Hybrid Propulsion & Zero-Emission Quayside Operations: The vessels feature an advanced hybrid setup powered by a SeaQ energy storage system exceeding 3,600 kWh in capacity, paired with SeaQ DC switchboards. This allows the ships to operate completely on battery power while alongside, at anchor, and for limited durations during dynamic positioning and transit.
- Methanol-Ready Capability: Designed to align with global decarbonization goals, the propulsion architecture is fully future-proofed for eventual conversion to methanol fuel, providing a clear pathway toward net-zero greenhouse gas emissions over the vessels’ operational life cycles.
- Optimized Efficiency: Built with an optimized, shallow-draft hull design, the ships integrate high-efficiency propulsion equipment, including stern azimuth propulsors, a tunnel thruster, and a pump jet, alongside a roll damping tank to maximize fuel savings and minimize emissions.
- SeaQ Green Pilot: The vessels will utilize VARD Electro’s cloud-based energy management system, collecting real-time operational data to optimize fuel consumption, lower emissions, and streamline regulatory and environmental compliance.
High-Spec Capabilities and Built-In Cybersecurity
Beyond environmental efficiency, the VARD 9 601 platform combines navigation buoy tending with hydrographic survey capabilities and emergency response functions:
- Operations & Deck Gear: Equipped for advanced Dynamic Positioning (DP) and crane operations, featuring a main deck configured for buoy handling and stowage, a 30-tonne twin hoist tension control crane, two smaller stores cranes, two workboats, a towing winch, and a fully functional helideck.
- Cybersecurity by Design: Integrating a layered cybersecurity architecture, the vessels feature secure system-to-system integration, strict segregation between Operational Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT), controlled interfaces, and protected ship-to-shore data flows.
- World-Class Crew Comfort: Designed to meet Lloyd’s Register’s CAC(1) and ABN(Q) class notations for noise and vibration, the vessels feature high-specification accommodation complying fully with the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, offering 360-degree bridge visibility and advanced green HVAC-R technology delivered by Vard Interiors.
Leadership Perspectives
Damien Oliver, Senior Responsible Owner for the Futures Afloat Ship Replacement Programme, Trinity House, said “We are delighted to be partnering with Vard to deliver the next generation of multi-functional buoy handling tenders for Trinity House. These new ships will ensure we can continue to fulfil our statutory responsibilities efficiently and effectively for decades to come.”
Rear Admiral Iain Lower, Deputy Master and Chief Executive Officer, Trinity House, said “Following a highly competitive tender process… I am pleased that we have awarded the contract to Vard, a world-class shipbuilder with an outstanding reputation for quality and innovation, to deliver these vital new vessels.”
Cathrine Kristiseter Marti, Chief Executive Officer, VARD Group, said “After a long and thorough process, we are thrilled to have been awarded the contract to renew Trinity House’s capabilities to maintain and modernise crucial marine infrastructure in UK waters. This contract truly emphasises the significant role VARD and our owner Fincantieri play for the future of the maritime industry.”
Economic Partnership & Local Commitment
The agreement highlights a robust international partnership incorporating significant UK-content commitments, ensuring the extended utilization of British suppliers throughout the build phase. Furthermore, the contract establishes a trilateral education and training partnership involving VARD, Trinity House, and Vard Marine in Canada, creating a cross-border exchange program for apprentices to elevate maritime competence.
Construction Timeline
- Design Execution: Engineered collaboratively by Vard Marine in Canada and Vard Design in Norway.
- System Integration: Comprehensive electrical, power, bridge, and communication packages supplied by Vard Electro.
- Delivery Schedule: Scheduled for handover in Q2 and Q4 of 2029, constructed across VARD’s integrated global value chain with final delivery originating from one of VARD’s specialized shipyards in Norway.
About Trinity House
Trinity House is a maritime safety and welfare organisation that works for the benefit and safety of all mariners as a General Lighthouse Authority and maritime charity.
As a General Lighthouse Authority, it operates marine aids to navigation that are critical to the safety of ships and seafarers, providing an essential service for the prosperity of our island nation. As a self-funding maritime charity, it provides education, support, and welfare to the seafaring community.
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 the majority shareholder of VARD, holding around 98% of the shares. FINCANTIERI is one of the world’s largest shipbuilding groups and the only player active in all high-complexity marine industry sectors. The Group is a global leader in the construction of cruise ships, naval vessels, and offshore vessels, standing out for its extensive experience in developing underwater solutions thanks to an 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 operates a production network of 18 shipyards worldwide and employs over 24,000 people.
Source: VARD