Allseas has selected Dutch Vuyk Engineering to design its new semi-submersible heavy transport vessel (HTV) Grand Tour. Purpose-designed to support seamless topsides transfers to Pioneering Spirit, the vessel is a step forward in integrated offshore transport and installation solutions.
Built at Guangzhou Shipyard International, the new HTV is scheduled for entering service in Q1 2028.
The vessel is optimised by Vuyk to carry payloads of up to 60,000 tonnes. But what makes the Grand Tour unique, is that it is designed to load and transport topsides of up to 40,000 tonnes at the stern and that it fits precisely into Pioneering Spirit’s bow slot, enabling safe and efficient offshore handovers. Its semi-submersible hull, with a 57-metre beam, ensures enhanced stability and shallow-draught access to global fabrication yards.
Vuyk has a track record in the design of semi-submersible transport vessels and extensive experience in integrating alternative fuel technologies aimed at reducing emissions. The new HTV reflects Vuyk’s commitment to delivering future-ready solutions that meet the evolving demands of the offshore energy market.
‘Our relationship with Allseas spans decades,’ says Floris Toetenel, Director at Vuyk Engineering, ‘and we’re proud to have continued that legacy with the concept and basic design of this new heavy transport vessel. Having played a significant role in the engineering of Pioneering Spirit, we understand the operational demands and ambitions that drive Allseas.’
Also read: Allseas orders new heavy transport vessel
Key design features
The key design features of the Grand Tour include:
- 180 x 57 m cargo deck designed for direct skidding, roll-on/roll-off, and float-on/float-off operations;
- Methanol-ready propulsion system;
- Air lubrication system and podded propulsion to reduce fuel consumption;
- High-capacity ballast system for precise load transfers.
The main dimensions of the vessel are:
- Loa: 229.9 m
- Beam (moulded): 57.0 m
- Depth (moulded): 14.8 m
- Draught (summer): 11.1 m
- Positioning: DP2
- Propulsion thrusters: 4 x 3500 kW
- Retractable thruster: 1 x 2600 kW
- Tunnel thrusters: 2 x 2000 kW
- Deadweight (11 m): 73,000 t
- Deck space: 10,260 m2
- Transport capacity: 40,000 t at the stern
Heavier cargos (up to 60,000 t) possible depending on optimal load spreading:
- 60,000 t @ 20 m COG above keel
- 49,000 t @ 30 m COG above keel
- 43,500 t @ 40 m COG above keel
- 38,500 t @ 45 m COG above keel
Picture by Allseas.
Also read: Vuyk launches new SWATH SOV series
