Ulstein, SeaOwls Partner for Heavy-lift Jack-Up Design
Ulstein Design & Solutions B.V. (part of Ulstein Group) and SeaOwls B.V. are partnering to combine the former’s track record in heavy lift vessel design with the latter’s experience in jack-up technology and engineering to jointly develop the next generation self-propelled heavy lift jack-up vessel.
The new design aims to serve the needs of offshore wind industry, but will also be suitable for operations in the offshore oil and gas market.
Rather than developing a scaled-up version of a conventional heavy lift jack-up vessel, a complete new design is being developed by the two companies. The new concept, dubbed SOUL (SeaOwls ULstein), will be scalable and suitable for various crane sizes, variable loads, deck lay-outs, etc.
“The design driver is to significantly increase the efficiency compared to existing units in the market, both in logistical lay-out as in pay load capacity,” said Erik Snijders, founder and managing director at SeaOwls. “The jacking technology is considered the most critical element for a jack-up and for SOUL we will make use of existing and proven jacking systems from reputable vendors.”
“Together we have come up with a new layout including number of alternative solutions that will significantly change and improve the installation of offshore wind turbines. With this partnership, we want to be a viable alternative for the offshore wind market,” said Edwin van Leeuwen, managing director at Ulstein Design & Solutions.