Cochin Shipyard Lays Keel for Hybrid Service Operation Vessel for North Star Shipping Ltd., UK
North Star Shipping Ltd., a pioneer in offshore renewable vessels, is committed to sustainable marine solutions for the global clean energy transition
Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), India’s leading shipbuilding and ship repair company, achieved a major milestone with the keel-laying ceremony of a next-generation hybrid Service Operation Vessel (SOV) being built for North Star Shipping (Aberdeen) Limited, UK, to serve the rapidly growing offshore renewable energy sector.
The ceremony was officiated by Mr. James Bradford, Chief Technology Officer, North Star Shipping, who laid the keel in the presence of Mr. Michael Reid, Head of Special Projects, North Star Shipping, Mr. Jose V. J., Director – Finance, CSL, Mr. Harikrishnan S., Executive Director – Shipbuilding, CSL, Mr. Rajesh Gopalakrishnan, Executive Director – Ship Repair, CSL, senior CSL officials, and representatives from North Star’s site team.
North Star Shipping Ltd., a pioneer in offshore renewable vessels, is committed to sustainable marine solutions for the global clean energy transition. The 68-metre hybrid-electric SOV, designed in collaboration with VARD AS, Norway, is the first of two vessels CSL is constructing for the UK-based company.
Built under DNV classification, the vessel features hybrid-electric propulsion with lithium-ion batteries, electric cycloidal thrusters for enhanced manoeuvrability, and a state-of-the-art walk-to-work gangway for safe personnel transfers in offshore wind farm environments. Purpose-built for the offshore renewable industry, the SOV will serve as a multifunctional platform combining accommodation, logistics, and maintenance support.
Key Features of the Hybrid SOV:
- Battery-hybrid power management system
- DP2 Class Dynamic Positioning system
- Accommodation for 54 persons, including specialized technicians and crew, with high onboard comfort standards
- Dedicated facilities for wind turbine maintenance
- Integrated warehouse and logistics centre to streamline offshore operations
- Advanced walk-to-work systems for safe and reliable personnel transfers
This milestone reinforces the long-term partnership between Cochin Shipyard and North Star Shipping, showcasing a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence in the offshore renewable vessel market.
