VARD to undertake innovative PSV conversion

The conversion will see the vessel returning to the yard where it was built helping decrease time to market for an industry in dire need of these specialised ships.

”We are very proud that IT chose VARD as their partner for this conversion. We will now use our core competence and long experience in design and construction of advanced Cable Laying Vessels to meet IT Telecom`s needs in the market.

“This project demonstrates VARD’s strength with our fully integrated value chain and it confirms our position in the aftermarket,” said Wilhelm Eggesbø Senior Vice President Vard Services in VARD.

Clever conversion

The PSV was originally built at Vard Brattvaag and delivered to Volstad Maritime in 2008 under the name Volstad Princess. SD Standard Drilling acquired the vessel in 2017 before it was sold to IT in 2021 and was renamed IT Infinity. Now, the vessel returns to VARD for the conversion.

The group’s technology subsidiary Vard Electro is involved in the project through the installation of cable and new switchboards as well as updating existing electrical systems.

”Combined with upgrades to the latest generation submarine cable handling and burial equipment, IT Infinity will be prepared to perform the various tasks required of it by IT’s customers around the world,” said Louise Thivierge, general manager, IT.

”This conversion project is the first of many in IT’s mission to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the submarine cable space.”

The work will be carried out by Vard Brattvaag in Norway and the vessel will be delivered in Q3 2024.