Latest NewsPower & PropulsionFour CSOVs for Brunvoll - Windward and VARD

Four CSOVs for Brunvoll – Windward and VARD

Brunvoll will now supply propulsion and manoeuvring packages for a total of four CSOVs for Windward and Vard. The initial order placed back in November was for two Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs). Windward and VARD have now declared the addition of two optional vessels to their order.

“In November I welcomed Windward as a new customer, and we are excited that they now have declared both options. Large series like these are important for our fully integrated value chain in many ways. I am looking forward to seeing all the twenty thrusters going through our factory here in Molde.”, says Bernt Rune Riksfjord, VP Sales at Brunvoll AS.

VARD’s 4 19- design, with propulsion and manoeuvring system from Brunvoll. Illustration: Vard Design AS

Windward’s new vessels will have two propulsion azimuth thrusters in the aft, and two retractable azimuth thrusters and a tunnel thruster in the bow. All azimuth thrusters feature the latest and greatest improvements to meet the increasingly stricter requirements for rapid, safe, and accurate DP operations for SOVs/CSOVs. This includes significantly improved rotation speed, faster propeller acceleration, and arrangements for increased thrust efficiency in terms of reduced thruster and hull interaction.

With four powerful and responsive azimuth thrusters, the vessels should be ideally equipped with regards to operational requirements, DP accuracy, and overall performance. The vessels, which are of VARD 4 19-design, will be approximately 87 x 19,5 meters with a capacity of 120 people. The design is optimized for low fuel consumption, high operability, and comfort.

“We have recognized Brunvoll as a leading supplier of integrated systems for propulsion, maneuvering, and automation in the offshore industry. It was a prerequisite for us to find a partner who also thrives for excellence. During our pre-assessments, we gained a lot of confidence in Brunvoll and their quality as well as their service and after sales network.”, said Lars Evers, Fleet Director at Windward, back in November last year.

‍The first two hulls will be built at VARD’s yard in Romania and outfitted at one of VARD’s yards in Norway. The third and fourth vessel will be built and delivered from Vard Vung Tau in Vietnam. The first CSOV for Windward Offshore is scheduled to be delivered in the second half of 2025.

VARD and Windward at Brunvoll’s facilities in Molde. Photo: Brunvoll AS/ Jørgen Eide.
From the left, Øystein Aarsæther (VARD), Arnim Von der Lieth (Windward),
Bernt Rune Riksfjord (Brunvoll), Martin Ingjerd (VARD), and Geir Larsen (Brunvoll).

Latest News

Becker Marine Systems has successfully tested its Anti-Drift Daggerboard system aboard Spirit of Toulouse, a newly built RoRo cargo vessel designed to transport aircraft components for Airbus across the Atlantic.

Becker Daggerboard Boosts Wind-Assisted Propulsion

The Becker Marine Systems Anti-Drift Daggerboard system has successfully completed sea trials aboard the 168-metre Spirit of Toulouse, helping maximise the efficiency of its...
ExploMar Targets Larger Commercial Vessels with New 400HP Electric Outboard ExploMar, a technology company specialising in high-performance electric marine propulsion systems, will offer an early look at its upcoming 400HP electric outboard at METSTRADE 2026, taking place from 17–19 November at RAI Amsterdam (Booth 05.501). The new model signals the company's expansion into higher-power propulsion solutions for larger commercial vessels and more demanding marine operations. Designed to deliver greater power and performance, the 400HP electric outboard aims to extend the potential of electric propulsion across a wider range of commercial applications, including passenger transport, workboats and other vessel operations where performance and operational efficiency are key considerations. ExploMar's existing electric outboard range spans 100HP to 300HP and is already used across fishing boats, passenger ferries, tour boats, patrol boats and aquaculture support vessels. Experience gained from deploying these systems in diverse marine environments has helped establish the company's position in the commercial electric propulsion market and provides a platform for expanding into higher-powered applications. The 400HP model is scheduled to make its official debut at the China (Shanghai) International Boat Show (CIBS) in March 2027, following its preview at METSTRADE 2026. Its introduction will further broaden ExploMar's offering to vessel owners and operators exploring electric propulsion for larger and more demanding commercial fleets.

ExploMar Pushes Electric Outboard Power to 400HP

Building on its existing 100HP–300HP range, ExploMar is targeting larger vessels with a 400hp electric propulsion solution, ahead of its official launch in March...
LD Armateurs (LDA) is strengthening its subsea cable operations with the acquisition of three Platform Supply Vessels (PSVs) for conversion into next-generation cable-laying vessels, alongside the launch of a new training initiative designed to develop the specialist skills required across its growing fleet.

LD Armateurs Invests in Three New Cable-Laying Vessels

Three new Platform Supply Vessels will be converted into next-generation cable-laying ships, with entry into service scheduled for early 2028 LD Armateurs (LDA) is strengthening...
Boluda Towage has completed its acquisition of full ownership of Dutch maritime services company Muller Dordrecht, strengthening its offshore towage and specialist marine project capabilities as part of its continued international expansion.

Boluda Towage Completes Acquisition of Muller Dordrecht

Founded in 1918, Muller Dordrecht joins Boluda Towage with a fleet of 16 tugs, including seven offshore tugs, and eight barges Boluda Towage has completed...

Related news