Dutch offshore contractor Van Oord has placed an order for two next-generation subsea rock installation (SRI) vessels as it looks to expand capacity and improve environmental performance in support of growing offshore energy infrastructure demand.

The vessels will be capable of operating on methanol and biofuel and are designed with efficiency and automation in mind. The first is scheduled for delivery in 2028, with the second to follow within a year. Both will be built by Yantai CIMC Raffles Offshore in China.

Each unit will feature a 35,000-tonne loading capacity, DP2 dynamic positioning, and systems to handle large rock sizes, aimed at seabed protection and stabilisation work in the offshore wind and energy sectors.

The design includes a DC-grid, significant battery capacity, and an energy-efficient hull and rock handling system, marking a step forward in Van Oord’s push for sustainable operations.

“These vessels are an investment in securing underwater infrastructure at a time when energy security is a growing global concern,” said Maurits den Broeder, managing director of offshore energy at Van Oord. “They reflect our commitment to innovation, safety, and long-term net-zero goals.”

Van Oord already operates three SRI vessels — Stornes, Nordnes, and Bravenes. The newbuilds will build on this existing platform with a focus on higher efficiency, fuel flexibility, and automation.

Van Oord has led in the subsea rock installation field since the 1970s, having pioneered the use of flexible fallpipe vessels for offshore foundation protection and scour mitigation.