Boskalis to Launch Largest Subsea Rock Installation Vessel, Enhancing Offshore Wind Project Capacity

Boskalis to Launch Largest Subsea Rock Installation Vessel, Enhancing Offshore Wind Project Capacity

(IN BRIEF) Royal Boskalis B.V. has announced the development of the ‘Windpiper,’ a groundbreaking subsea rock installation vessel with a capacity of 45,500 metric tons. The largest of its kind, the ‘Windpiper’ will double Boskalis’ current capacity and is set to play a major role in offshore wind projects, particularly in Northwest Europe. Scheduled for delivery in 2026, the vessel features advanced technology such as an inclined fall pipe, DP2 certification, and powerful thrusters, enabling it to operate in challenging offshore environments. Its substantial cargo capacity reduces the number of trips required, lowering emissions and installation costs.

(PRESS RELEASE) PAPENDRECHT, 6-Jan-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Royal Boskalis B.V. (Boskalis) has unveiled plans to launch a revolutionary subsea rock installation (SRI) vessel, set to become the largest of its kind in the industry. Named the ‘Windpiper,’ this groundbreaking vessel will have an impressive cargo capacity of 45,500 metric tons, doubling Boskalis’ current capacity and strengthening its position as the dominant player in the subsea rock installation market. Scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2026, the ‘Windpiper’ will play a pivotal role in supporting the energy transition, particularly in offshore wind projects. Its first projects will likely take place in Northwest Europe.

The ‘Windpiper’ is being developed by converting a newly built vessel, under the expert guidance of Boskalis. Measuring 227 meters in length and 40 meters in breadth, the vessel is powered by more than 31,000 kW of installed power. It features a moonpool and an inclined fall pipe designed for the protection of offshore structures, such as the foundations of wind turbines. Equipped with seven thrusters and certified with DP2 dynamic positioning, the ‘Windpiper’ is engineered to operate efficiently in the harshest offshore conditions.

This impressive vessel’s dual holds allow it to carry large amounts of rock, making it ideal for projects with long transit distances, such as those in the North American East Coast, the Baltic Sea, and the Southern North Sea. By minimizing the number of trips required to transport rock, the vessel not only reduces emissions but also lowers installation costs. Additionally, the vessel is equipped with more than one hundred single-occupancy cabins, offering comfort for both the crew and client representatives on board.

Boskalis has built a solid reputation for repurposing existing vessels to meet evolving needs. This sustainable approach provides the company with a significant time-to-market advantage while reducing the environmental impact. The ‘Windpiper’ will enhance Boskalis’ ability to meet the growing demands of its clients while maintaining the highest safety and environmental standards.

Boskalis is a leading global services provider operating in the dredging, maritime infrastructure and maritime services sectors. The company provides creative and innovative all-round solutions to infrastructural challenges in the maritime, coastal and delta regions of the world. With core activities such as coastal defense, riverbank protection and land reclamation Boskalis is able to provide adaptive and mitigating solutions to combat the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather conditions and rising sea levels, as well as delivering solutions for the increasing need for space in coastal and delta regions across the world. The company facilitates the development of offshore energy infrastructure, including renewable wind energy. Boskalis is furthermore active in the construction and maintenance of ports, waterways, access channels and civil infrastructure, thus helping to facilitate trade flows and regional socio-economic development. In addition, Boskalis is a global marine salvage expert and provides terminal services at various locations worldwide. With a versatile fleet of more than 500 vessels and floating equipment and over 11,000 employees, Boskalis is creating new horizons around the world.

This press release can also be found on our website www.boskalis.com.

Media Contact:

Martijn L.D. Schuttevâer
email: press@boskalis.com
Tel: +31 786969310

SOURCE: Boskalis