Second multi-fuel Subsea Rock Installation vessel contract marks a key milestone in the partners’ ongoing collaboration
On 12 January, CIMC Raffles successfully signed the construction contract for the second multi-fuel Subsea Rock Installation Vessel with Van Oord. This milestone marks another significant step in the long-term strategic partnership between the two companies, further strengthening the mutual trust established since the renewal of their cooperation in 2021 and underscoring their continued commitment to close collaboration.
The new-generation Subsea Rock Installation vessel will be classed by Bureau Veritas (BV) and features industry-leading standards in design, performance, and environmental protection. The vessel has an overall length of 199 meters, a beam of 32.2 meters, is equipped with DP2 dynamic positioning capability, and offers an impressive rock-carrying capacity of up to 35,000 tons, enabling efficient execution of large-scale offshore construction projects. The sustainable design of the vessel includes multi-fuel engines (biofuel and methanol), a DC-grid with large battery storage capacity, and an energy-efficient hull design and rock handling system. These technologies enable a reduction in CO₂ emissions.
Looking back on the cooperation journey, CIMC Raffles and Van Oord resumed newbuilding cooperation in 2021, after a ten-year interval. In January 2025, CIMC Raffles successfully delivered the WTIV “Boreas” to Van Oord, which further strengthened mutual confidence. Throughout the cooperation, CIMC Raffles has earned strong recognition and trust from the Owner through high-precision manufacturing, strict schedule control, and comprehensive lifecycle services. From design optimization and construction management to technical problem-solving and after-sales support, CIMC Raffles continues to practice its core value of “Creating Value for Customers”, laying a solid foundation for long-term partnership.
In July 2025, the two parties signed a 1+1 vessel Subsea Rock Installation contract, which included an option clause allowing Van Oord to place an additional order within an agreed time frame. Based on CIMC Raffles’ proven technical strength, project execution capability, and the strong market competitiveness of the vessel design, Van Oord exercised this option and proceeded with the contract for the second vessel, further deepening the cooperation.
The successful signing of this contract not only represents another important milestone in the partnership between CIMC Raffles and Van Oord, but also demonstrates CIMC Raffles’ core competitiveness and market reputation in the specialised vessel sector.
