Singapore-based Tasik Subsea has launched its IACS-classed diving support vessel the ‘Southern Star’ in China.
Reportedly, a five-year bareboat charter has already been signed for the vessel, scheduled to come into service early next year.
The 112-metre, DP3, saturation/air dive and ROV support vessel features two moon pools and has a 300 metre rated, 15 man saturation diving system. It was the first vessel to leave the new dry dock facility at the ‘Culu Island’ Fujian Mawei Shipyard facility, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary, in Fuzhou, China.
The ‘Southern Star’ has a 150 tonne, active heave compensated crane, two self-propelled hyperbaric lifeboats and has been built to comply with Australian accommodation standards.
Its ROV hangar can house two deep-water, construction class vehicles and the vessel’s propulsion system is supplied by VOITH and Rolls Royce. The managing director of Tasik Subsea, John Giddens , said at the launch ceremony: “At the outset we decided to build a technically advanced, cost effective vessel whilst working closely with the charterer from the start.
“Those decisions have been vindicated by the economic challenges that face our industry today as a result of low oil prices and the general slowdown in the marine industry.
“I am pleased to say that the Fujian Mawei Shipbuilders world-class facility here in Fuzhou has produced a vessel that is on schedule and ahead of budget.”