Boskalis’s subsidiary Dockwise now confirms it has been contracted by Costa Crociere to load and transport the Costa Concordia wreck from Isola del Giglio on board the Dockwise Vanguard.
Following the successful parbuckling of the Concordia, and in anticipation of the pending refloat, Dockwise and the client have been in discussion to seek a safe solution to remove the wreck from Isola del Giglio in Italy. In a unique operation the Concordia can be loaded as a whole onto the Dockwise Vanguard and safely transported to a location where it can be scrapped.
Costa Crociere has yet to make a decision in agreement with the local authorities on the final destination. Alternatives under review include scrapping the vessel in Italy.
Operation Mid-2014
As part of the contract, certain modifications will be made to the Dockwise Vanguard to accommodate the loading of the Concordia in its current state. The operation is planned to take place around mid-2014 and contract value of the work scope as described amounts to approximately USD 30 million.
Dockwise Vanguard
The Dockwise Vanguard (also watch these videos) is the world's largest semi-submersible ship uniquely positioned to lift and transport extremely heavy cargoes in a dry and safe manner. The ship was initially designed to transport offshore oil and gas structures, but can also carry other vessels and act as an offshore dry dock facility.
The Dockwise Vanguard has an open and flat stern and bow-less deck measuring 275 meters by 70 meters allowing the vessel to transport cargo longer and wider than the deck dimensions.
Costa Concordia Loaded While Semi-Submersed
When the ballast tanks are flooded, the ship deck submerges below the surface, allowing it to handle deep draught cargoes.
Once the Dockwise Vanguard is semi-submersed, the floating Costa Concordia will be brought in position above the deck and as the ballast tanks are emptied, the entire ship including the Costa Concordia is brought above the water line allowing it to transport the cargo in a safe and swift manner.
Picture: The Costa Concordia on board the Dockwise Vanguard (by Boskalis)
