North Star Unveils Its Inaugural CSOV at VARD Shipyard in Norway

Image Credits: North Star/LinkedIn

North Star,the operator of the largest fleet of UK-owned vessels,recently celebrated a notable milestone wiht the launch of it’s first commissioning service operation vessel (CSOV),named Grampian kestrel. The event took place on May 6 at VARD’s Langsten shipyard in Tomrefjord, Norway.

The Grampian Kestrel is just the begining; it’s one of two CSOVs set to join North Star’s renewable energy support fleet by 2025.This vessel is designed to provide complete support throughout the lifecycle of offshore wind farms and will initially work alongside German energy giant EnBW for construction and commissioning tasks.

Once operational, it will transition to managing operations and maintenance for EnBW’s He Dreiht wind farm in the North Sea until their new service operation vessel (SOV) arrives in late 2026. This new SOV will be based on VARD’s innovative design.

Built using VARD’s advanced 4 22 design, Grampian Kestrel boasts hybrid propulsion technology that can utilize methanol as fuel. It also features enhanced living accommodations with more single cabins that offer hotel-like comfort for technicians onboard.

Additionally,this vessel includes a high-performance daughter craft and space for another if needed by clients. Notably, it has achieved a world-first Cyber Resilience classification from Lloyd’s Register.

North Star emphasizes that this ship is equipped with state-of-the-art technology such as digital twins and dynamic positioning systems linked to Voith Schneider propulsion units—tools aimed at boosting performance while ensuring crew safety and well-being at sea.

Gitte Gard Talmo, CEO of North Star, expressed her excitement about how Grampian Kestrel aligns with their vision to become Europe’s leading service provider in offshore wind operations. She acknowledged her team’s hard work in delivering reliable services across all phases of offshore projects.

Talmo also highlighted that achieving cyber certification was made possible through strong collaboration with VARD—a reminder that teamwork across industries is crucial for success. She proudly stated they are delivering a future-ready asset for EnBW.

James Bradford, Chief Technology Officer at North Star, shared insights into their substantial investments in digital technologies within their renewable fleet. The innovations aboard Grampian Kestrel facilitate precise monitoring and automated processes while enhancing safety measures onboard.

The naming ceremony saw participation from various stakeholders including representatives from North Star and EnBW; Indu Vaidya served as godmother to the vessel—a notable figure who holds positions both on North Star’s board and at Partners Group.

Partners Group has been instrumental in supporting North Star’s growth through strategic investments aimed at expanding its European presence while enhancing its fleet dedicated to renewable energy services over recent years.

Vaidya played an essential role during the ceremony which included traditional blessings—her firm has significantly contributed financially towards developing an aspiring plan involving up to £270 million investment aimed at constructing 40 offshore wind vessels by 2040!

Currently boasting eight vessels either operational or under construction, North Star plans on hiring an additional 160 skilled seafarers over three years to meet increasing contract demands effectively!

VARD CEO Cathrine K. Marti congratulated everyone involved stating that Grampian Kestrel was meticulously crafted not only for immediate needs but also long-term efficiency—ensuring comfort without compromising adaptability right from day one!

Reference: North Sea