Purpose-built cable maintenance vessel to enhance Global Marine’s fibre optic submarine cable repair capabilities with delivery scheduled for Q4 2029
Global Marine Group has signed a contract with Colombo Dockyard in Sri Lanka for the construction of a new purpose-built cable maintenance vessel, marking a significant investment in its future submarine cable support capabilities.
Scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2029, the new vessel has been specifically designed to undertake fibre optic submarine cable maintenance and repair operations, strengthening Global Marine’s ability to support the growing demand for reliable subsea communications infrastructure.
Based on a proven next generation vessel design, the new build will deliver enhanced operational performance while setting new standards in efficiency and sustainability. It marks the first step in a planned and phased renewal of our fleet, introducing a modern, hybrid-powered platform optimised for subsea cable maintenance.
The new vessel has been engineered with a strong focus on station-keeping capability and reduced fuel consumption. Key features include:
- Hybrid power generation, combining generators and battery systems to enhance operational efficiency and resilience
- Optimised fuel consumption, using advanced engine configurations to match power output to operating conditions
- Azimuth thruster technology, delivering maximum propulsion efficiency and manoeuvrability
- A hydrodynamically optimised hull, improving transit efficiency and performance in challenging sea states
- Shore power connectivity, enabling reduced emissions during standby periods
- Advanced emissions reduction systems, supporting compliance with CLEANSHIP requirements and future regulatory standards
Together, these capabilities deliver meaningful reductions in CO2 and NOx emissions, alongside improved operational reliability.
Simon Hibberd, Chief Executive Officer, Global Marine Group, said:“This new build is about investing ahead of demand. It ensures Global Marine has the capability, capacity, and efficiency required to support the next generation of subsea cable networks while reinforcing our position as the market-leading provider of maintenance services worldwide.“
“We are delighted to be partnering with Colombo Dockyard on this important project and look forward to welcoming the vessel into service in 2029.”
This new build, alongside the recent acquisition of CS Clipper, represents a significant renewal of our operational fleet. It strengthens our ability to support long-term maintenance contracts with the world’s leading cable owners, while positioning us to capitalise on the growing demand in the subsea cable market.
As the industry enters a phase of structural expansion and tighter environmental regulation, investing in modern, fuel-efficient vessels ensures we remain competitive, resilient, and ready to meet future challenges.
With cutting-edge hydrodynamic design and a specification tailored to our exact operational requirements, this vessel will be built for long-term performance, delivering strong sea-keeping capabilities and full lifecycle value.
