Norway’s Solstad Offshore has returned to Gibdock for the conversion and drydocking of the 84m long, 4500 dwt Platform Support Vessel Normand Vester. This follows the conversion of the Normand Trym and Normand Vibran at the Gibraltar yard, successfully completed for the same owner last year.
While the Normand Vester project is similar in scope to these earlier conversions, there are some differences. In this case, the fresh water capacity is being increased by converting two of the stability tanks from water ballast to fresh water, while eight mud tanks are being converted for increased fuel oil capacity. Furthermore, two wing tanks are being converted to void spaces due to the conversion of the stability tanks.
This work is necessary to prepare the vessel for a new role, under a four year charter that Solstad has recently agreed with Petrobras of Brazil. This contract requires that the vessel is able to supply offshore units with 1600m3 of potable water and 1600m3 of fuel oil.
Malcolm Rosie, Technical Director, Solstad Offshore (UK) says: “Gibdock was chosen to carry out this work as they offered a very positive attitude to the project, were in a good location en route to Brazil and offered competitive rates. Gibdock also delivered excellent results with the Vibran and Trym conversions in 2010.”
Another Solstad ship, the 127m long 9500 dwt offshore construction vessel Normand Cutter, also docked at Gibdock in April this year, having been operating in West Africa. On this occasion the yard was required to dock the vessel for its second class renewal. In addition to general survey requirements, Gibdock carried out thruster, crane and general repair work.
Gibdock Commercial Manager Richard Beards says: “It is a tribute to the capabilities of the yard and our staff that Solstad keeps coming back and these latest dockings underline the close partnership that has been built up between us. They are a major quality player and we are honoured that they continue to have such confidence in us.”