WATCH: Nexans Electra CLV launch milestone

The launch of the Nexans Electra marks a major milestone in the vessel build for one of the industry’s most advanced cable laying vessels.

The image shows the CLV Nexans Electra on the water

On 13 November 2025, the hull of the CLV Nexans Electra was launched from the dock hall at Ulstein Verft, moving the project into its final construction stages. 

“The launch of the hull is more than a logistical milestone; it marks a symbolic moment in the construction of a vessel that will play a key role in advancing Nexans’ vision to electrify the future,” the company said.

Future vision

Ulstein Verft was commissioned to build the large DP3 cable laying vessel for Nexans back in September 2023.

The vessel, an ST-297 CLV design by Skipsteknisk, is an updated version of the Nexans Aurora, delivered in 2021.

A controlled indoor environment at the yard has ensured high-precision work throughout the build, including critical painting and outfitting tasks, despite challenging weather conditions.

As the hull shifts from the dock hall to the outfitting quay, the vessel edges closer to entering offshore operations that will support the expansion of offshore wind and subsea interconnector projects worldwide.

Designed for tomorrow’s energy demands, the Nexans Electra seeks to bring a new level of cable-laying capability to offshore wind development.

It can lay up to four subsea cables simultaneously and carry 13,500 tonnes of cable across three turntables, ensuring efficient, resilient performance in harsh marine environments.

Installation of main generator sets, the power package, deck machinery and topside equipment is nearing completion.

The next phase will be focused on final assembly, system testing, with sea trials scheduled for spring 2026.