GLDD orders Ulstein-design rock installer at Philly

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co LLC (GLDD) has ordered a Jones Act-compliant rock installation vessel, designed by Ulstein Design & Solutions BV, at Philly Shipyard, with an option for a second ship. The first unit is expected to be commissioned in the fourth quarter of 2024.

The 140.5m-long ship, capable of transporting 20,000 tonnes of rock, will be built to ABS Class, as is required under Jones Act regulations. With low-emissions, the DP2 vessel will have EPA Ties 4 engines, plug-in shore power connections, battery packs for peak-shaving, and accommodation for a US crew of 45 persons.

Eleni Beyko, GLDD’s senior vice president, Offshore Wind, commented: “World-renowned engineering firm Ulstein Design and Solutions BV was commissioned by us to design the vessel using state-of-the-art technology, equipment and automation. The design was reviewed and approved by the American Bureau of Shipping and will be built with best-in-class safety and low emissions standards (LEV, Sustain2).”

Lead naval architect at Ulstein Design & Solutions, Ko Stroo, said: “It is a privilege to work together with the GLDD newbuilding team. Their vast experience in US shipbuilding, combined with our expertise of rock installation vessel design, was essential in creating this unique vessel for US offshore wind sector.”