The Australian Department of Industry, Science and Resources has engaged COSCO Shipping Heavy Transport (COSCO) to undertake the dry towing of the Northern Endeavour floating production storage and offtake (FPSO) vessel to a recycling location. The operation will utilize COSCO’s semi-submersible heavy transport vessel, the Hua Rui Long, ensuring the safe and reliable transport of the FPSO for decontamination, dismantling, and recycling.
Dry towing is recognized as the safest and most reliable method for transporting a vessel of the Northern Endeavour’s size and condition. This approach minimizes risks associated with the vessel’s transport and ensures compliance with environmental and safety standards.
The Northern Endeavour FPSO is 274 m in length and weighs over 43,000 t, the equivalent of just over 4 Eiffel Towers. There are only a few vessels in the world large enough to carry something as long and heavy as the FPSO. Securing an appropriate vessel in the right timeframes marks a significant milestone for the program.
The Hua Rui Long is the third largest semi-submersible heavy transport vessel in the world. It is unique because the vessel superstructure is not in the usual location at the front of the vessel. This allows the Hua Rui Long to transport longer vessels because the bow, or front, of both vessels are in alignment. The Hua Rui Long can also hang cargo over the back, or stern, if needed.
COSCO will work with Petrofac to arrange for the FPSO to be towed to the recycling location after disconnection.
