Van Oord celebrates christening of cable-laying vessel Calypso

26 September 2023

On September 9, the brand-new cable laying vessel, Calypso (flying the Dutch flag), underwent its christening in a celebratory event in Rotterdam. The vessel featured the latest sustainable technologies and constituted a vital strategic addition to the offshore wind fleet of the organization involved.

Ms. Inca Cerutti, the wife of Niek Hoek, chairman of the Supervisory Board, assumed the honor of christening the vessel. Following the ceremony, the lady of the christening, accompanied by employees and guests, embarked on a guided tour of the vessel.

Cable-laying Vessel

The Calypso represented Van Oord's second cable-laying vessel, dedicated primarily to the installation of inter-array grid and export cables for offshore wind projects on a global scale. It boasted two cable carousels, enabling the simultaneous laying of two cables.

Sustainable Technology

In a commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, the Calypso was meticulously designed with cutting-edge sustainable technologies. Beyond its capability to operate on biofuel, this hybrid vessel featured forward-looking engines with built-in adaptability for future e-fuels. It came equipped with a substantial battery pack, shore supply connectivity, and a state-of-the-art energy management system. This sustainable configuration promised a more energy-efficient vessel, marked by substantial reductions in CO2, NOx, and SOx (carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur oxides) emissions. Offshore wind played a pivotal role in global efforts to meet climate change targets. By investing in state-of-the-art sustainable technology, the organization contributed to the energy transition, enhancing the competitiveness of offshore wind.

Double Christening Ceremony

In a day filled with festivities, not one but two new vessels from Van Oord underwent christening. Earlier in the day, the new hopper dredger Vox Alexia received its christening from Her Royal Highness Princess Alexia of the Netherlands.

Source: Van Oord