Offshore Wind: Developing the next generation heavy lift jack up

SeaOwls’ years of experience in jack-up technology and engineering and Ulstein’s vast track record in heavy lift vessel design, allow to develop a revolutionary new jack-up concept based on proven technologies. The new design aims to serve the (future) needs of offshore wind industry, but will also be suitable for operations in the offshore oil and gas market.

Rather than developing a scaled-up version of a conventional heavy lift jack-up vessel, a complete new design is being developed by the two companies. The new concept, dubbed SOUL (SeaOwls ULstein), will be scalable and suitable for various crane sizes, variable loads, deck lay-outs, etc.

“The design driver is to significantly increase the efficiency compared to existing units in the market, both in logistical lay-out as in pay load capacity”, mentions Erik Snijders, founder and managing director at SeaOwls. “The jacking technology is considered the most critical element for a jack-up and for SOUL we will make use of existing and proven jacking systems from reputable vendors.”

“Together we have come up with a new layout including number of alternative solutions that will significantly change and improve the installation of offshore wind turbines. With this partnership, we want to be a viable alternative for the offshore wind market”, says Edwin van Leeuwen, managing director at Ulstein Design & Solutions.