Freja is based on the VARD 9 01 design, has been specially designed and equipped for subsea cable laying operations. It features excellent sea-keeping capabilities, superior station-keeping performance, and low fuel consumption, making it an ideal choice for efficient and sustainable operations.
The vessel is equipped with a complete SeaQ power and control package, encompassing batteries, switchboards, and shore connection, allowing for a reduction in fuel consumption and increased operability. Additionally, the vessel is fitted with two main cable tanks, a T-ROV hangar, a walk-to-work system, and is prepared for a large A-frame and single-cabin accommodation for 60 persons. Vard Interiors has delivered sustainable HVAC-R and piping systems. Seaonics has delivered a 22 m Electrically Controlled Motion Compensated (ECMC) Gangway.
The hull of the vessel was constructed at Vard Shipyards Romania – Tulcea. The cable layer was outfitted, commissioned, and delivered from Vard Langsten in Norway.
Why Freja Stood Out
Baird Maritime highlighted the following:
- Tailored design for the offshore wind and renewables market
- Energy-efficient propulsion systems
- Advanced mission equipment ensuring flexibility and safety
- Successful delivery ahead of schedule, less than two years after contract signing
Strengthening VARD’s Position
The award demonstrates VARD’s ability to deliver complex, sustainable, and future-ready vessels that support the global energy transition. Freja will play a key role in offshore wind projects, contributing to the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure at sea.
Being recognized as Best Cable Layer of the Year is not only an honor for the vessel and her owner, NCT Offshore, but also a strong testament to the competence, innovation, and teamwork across VARD’s global organization.
“VARD delivered ahead of schedule, with a vessel tailored for safe, efficient, and sustainable cable-laying operations. This vessel, along with our purpose-built and in-house designed cable lay equipment and TROV109 jet trencher, and our highly skilled and experienced crew, strengthens our ability to support the rapid expansion of offshore renewables. I am immensely proud of this achievement, and this vessel, equipment, and crew have the potential to set new benchmarks and standards and be the best array cable installation vessel in the world,” said Alexander Cortes, Chief Commercial Officer, NCT Offshore.
