Construction of Allseas’ new semi-submersible heavy transport vessel Grand Tour officially began on 16 September at Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) in China. The vessel fits inside the bow slot of Pioneering Spirit, enabling the direct transfer of structures for installation.
Grand Tour is designed to transport some of the world’s largest offshore structures, including next-generation 2GW offshore wind converter platforms, with a carrying capacity of up to 60,000 tonnes. The ship measures 230 metres in length and 57 metres in width.
Scheduled for delivery in Q1 2028, Grand Tour will expand Allseas‘ transport capabilities and support efficient offshore operations worldwide.
Also read: Allseas orders new heavy transport vessel
Pioneering Spirit bow slot and methanol-ready
The new vessel is designed to fit exactly inside the bow slot of Pioneering Spirit. The Pioneering Spirit is the world’s largest offshore construction vessel. The integration will streamline the offshore installation process, and offer clients a one-stop-shop for transport and installation of large structures fabricated far away from the installation location.
Other features of the Grand Tour include:
- Semi-submersible hull with 57-metre beam for enhanced stability and shallow-draught access at global yards.
- 40,000-tonne load capacity
- Advanced ballast system pumping 24,000 m3/h – equivalent to ten Olympic swimming pools – enabling safe, precise load transfers.
- Methanol-ready 24 MW propulsion system, with capability to transition to e-methanol, securing competitiveness in a changing energy market.
- Air lubrication system under the hull and podded propulsion to reduce drag, improve transit efficiency, and cut fuel use.
- 180 x 57-m cargo deck designed for direct skidding, roll-on/roll-off, and float-on/float-off operations.
Picture: Grand Tour with topsides (image Allseas).
Also read: Vuyk design for new Allseas heavy transport vessel
