Boskalis Introduces World’s Largest Subsea Rock Installation Vessel ‘Windpiper’

Royal Boskalis B.V. (Boskalis) has announced the addition of a new subsea rock installation (SRI) vessel, the “Windpiper,” to its fleet. With a massive cargo capacity of 45,000 metric tons, this new vessel will be the largest in the industry.

The introduction of the ‘Windpiper’ will double Boskalis’ SRI capacity, making it the largest player in this market, which includes three of its existing vessels.

The ‘Windpiper’ is set for delivery in the first quarter of 2026 and will mainly support offshore wind energy projects to help the global energy transition.

The vessel’s first assignments are expected to take place in Northwest Europe.

The ‘Windpiper’ is being developed by converting an existing vessel under Boskalis’ supervision. It will measure 227 meters in length and 40 meters in breadth, with a total installed power exceeding 31,000 kW.

The vessel will feature advanced equipment, including a moonpool and an inclined fall pipe, which are important to protect offshore wind turbine foundations and other marine structures.

It will be equipped with seven thrusters and will have DP2 certification to ensure precise operations in challenging offshore conditions.

The vessel’s large capacity, divided into two holds, is designed for projects requiring long transit distances between rock loading facilities and project sites, such as the North American East Coast, the Baltic Sea, and the Southern North Sea.

The large capacity reduces the number of trips needed, lowering emissions and installation costs.

The vessel will also provide comfortable accommodations, with over 100 single-occupancy cabins for both crew and client representatives.

Boskalis has a strong history of converting existing vessels for new purposes, a sustainable approach that reduces construction timelines and extends the lifespan of hulls.

The company is a global leader in dredging, maritime infrastructure, and services, offering solutions to tackle issues like climate change, rising sea levels, and the growing demand for renewable energy.

Its core activities include coastal defence, land reclamation, offshore wind infrastructure, and port development.

Reference: Boskalis

Source: Maritime Shipping News