One New and One Converted Trenching Support Vessel to Enrich Jan De Nul’s Fleet

Why It Matters

The expansion equips Jan De Nul with greener, purpose‑built assets that accelerate offshore cable deployment and protection, a critical bottleneck for renewable energy expansion.

Key Takeaways

• New Ulstein‑design vessel built at CMHI, delivering 2028
• Vessel runs on biofuel, green methanol, ultra‑low‑emission tech
• Deck trencher can bury cables up to five metres deep
• Henry Darcy conversion adds subsea robot for shallow‑water burial
• Expands Jan De Nul’s XL fleet for cable installation protection

Pulse Analysis

The offshore renewable sector is increasingly dependent on high‑capacity subsea cables to transmit power from wind farms to shore. As projects scale, the industry faces a dual challenge: installing cables quickly while ensuring long‑term protection against mechanical damage and environmental exposure. Jan De Nul’s decision to invest in dedicated trenching support vessels directly addresses this gap, offering operators a streamlined path from cable laying to burial, thereby reducing overall project timelines and risk.

The new‑build vessel, based on an Ulstein platform and constructed at China Merchants Heavy Industry, exemplifies the shift toward decarbonised maritime assets. By supporting biofuel and green methanol alongside ultra‑low‑emission (ULEv) systems, the ship aligns with tightening IMO regulations and the broader ESG expectations of investors. Its deck‑mounted trencher, capable of reaching five metres below the seabed, positions the vessel to handle deep‑water projects that were previously limited to specialized, higher‑cost rigs.

Converting the existing Henry Darcy dredger adds immediate capacity while leveraging proven hull forms. The integration of Osbit’s subsea robot enables precise cable burial in shallow waters, a niche often underserved by larger vessels. Combined with Jan De Nul’s XL fleet—including the Fleeming Jenkin, William Thomson, and rock‑installation vessel George W. Goethals—the company now offers a full spectrum of cable‑related services, from installation to protection. This comprehensive approach not only strengthens its market position but also signals to governments that the private sector is ready to underpin the next wave of offshore energy generation.