Vard to convert PSV into cable laying vessel
The PSV IT Infinity is being converted into a cable-laying vessel in Norway (Source: IT)
Norway’s ship designer, builder and conversion specialist Vard is to convert IT International Telecom Marine’s offshore platform support vessel (PSV) IT Infinity into a cable laying vessel.
The 5,000dwt IT Infinity was built by Vard’s Brattvåg yard in 2008 and was delivered to Volstad Maritime as the Volstad Princess. The vessel was then sold to Standard Drilling in 2017, before being acquired by Quebec, Canada-based IT International Telecom Marine, a subsea cable network provider, in 2021. The conversion will be undertaken by Vard’s Brattvåg yard, with the new cable layer being delivered to her Canadian owners in the third quarter of 2024. The vessel arrived in Norway from Halifax, Nova Scotia, on December 18th.
Also working on the conversion project are Vard Electro, who will install new cables and new switchboards, as well as updating existing electrical systems, while Vard Interiors will deliver the vessel a new HVAC system.
Commenting on the conversion, IT International Telecom Marine’s General Manager Louise Thiverge said: “IT is pleased to partner with VARD conversion. Returning to the yard where she was built provides unique efficiencies, decreasing time to market, for an industry in dire need of these specialised ships.”
