Next Geosolutions Europe and Green Yard Kleven have signed a collaboration agreement to convert the vessel NG Explorer for use in high-specification seabed surveys. The NG Explorer, originally built in 2010 as an offshore support vessel, is 58 metres long, 14 metres wide, with a draft of 4.5 metres.
Most recently used in aquaculture, the ship will now be refitted for operations in the offshore energy sector, with a focus on geophysical, geotechnical, environmental and unexploded ordnance (UXO) seabed investigations.
The conversion will include the installation of a new accommodation module to increase personnel capacity, as well as the addition of meeting rooms, a control room and office space. The vessel will also be fitted with a launch and recovery system (LARS) for remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), an A-frame at the stern, and various deck equipment. All equipment and materials removed during the conversion will be reused onboard where possible, repurposed for other yard projects, or sold.
