Rem Offshore, in collaboration with subsea company DeepOcean, has secured a record-breaking eight-year IMR (Inspection, Maintenance, and Repair) contract with Equinor. 

“The charter agreement with DeepOcean is the largest in Rem’s history, increasing our order backlog to nearly NOK 6 billion,” says Lars Conradi Andersen, CEO of Rem Offshore.

This eight-year charter agreement, which includes additional extension options, involves the construction of an ST 245 IMR vessel at Myklebust Shipyard. This vessel not only sets new benchmarks for environmental sustainability and operational efficiency, but also strengthens Norway’s maritime industry, and particularly the local cluster in Sunnmøre.

In collaboration with DeepOcean, Myklebust Shipyard, and Skipsteknisk, Rem has developed a vessel that integrates cutting-edge technology with significant environmental benefits.

“Rem and DeepOcean share a long history, and we are thrilled to collaborate again in delivering IMR services to Equinor,” said Conradi Andersen. “Executing such an ambitious project locally, with trusted suppliers, highlights the strength of our maritime industry cluster as a global leader in its field.”

A Vessel for Future Subsea Operations
DeepOcean will deploy the vessel for subsea operations such as inspection, maintenance, and repair on Equinor installations. Ottar Kringen Mæland, Chief Operating Officer of DeepOcean, described the ship as “the next generation subsea vessel”.

“We are excited to build on our longstanding partnership with Rem Offshore and Norway’s exceptional supply chain. This collaboration is pivotal for implementing the latest subsea technology, making it an efficient future-oriented solution. We eagerly anticipate its launch in 2027,” Mæland added.

Boosting Local Value Creation and Collaboration
“The vessel, named Rem Ocean, will be the 83rd ship built by Myklebust Shipyard, which also has an option to build a second, similar vessel for Rem Offshore. Leiv Sindre Muren, CEO of Myklebust Shipyard, emphasized the significance of the contract as the largest in the shipyard’s history. The project will generate substantial activity for subcontractors, including Skipsteknisk AS and several other Norwegian suppliers.

“The construction of Rem Ocean is a vital contribution to local value creation and job growth,” said Muren. “For Myklebust Shipyard, it extends our order backlog, creates new opportunities, and presents exciting technological challenges.”

Additionally, Rem Offshore already has another large subsea vessel under construction at the same shipyard with delivery in 2026.

The IMR vessel of the future
Powered by a combination of methanol and batteries, Rem Ocean can reduce emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional fuel. This advanced vessel is designed to perform maintenance and inspections on subsea installations in challenging conditions, boasting state-of-the-art features like a heavy-duty crane, modular handling systems, and multiple electric underwater robots (ROVs). It is capable of operating in wave heights up to six meters and is classified for year-round use in ice-covered waters, enabling operations at Equinor’s northern facilities.

Technical Highlights

  • Length: 117 meters
  • Width: 23 meters
  • Cabin Capacity: 120 persons
  • Working Deck: 1,000 m² outdoor, 350 m³ indoor hangar
  • Fuel: Biomethanol & biodiesel + batteries
  • Crane: 250 tons, electric
  • Modular Handling System: 80 tons, electric
  • Underwater Robots: 3 x electric LARS, 2 x electric WROV, 1 x electric OROV
  • Emission Reduction: Up to 90% on biofuel, 30% on conventional fuel
  • Delivery: 2027

 

Ill: Rem Ocean, ST245 IMR| Inspection, Maintainence and Repair vessel| Length 117 m | ACC. for 120 POB