HOS Rocinante SOV conversion at Eastern Shipbuilding. Image courtesy Eastern Shipbuilding
Eastern Shipbuilding Group is spearheading the conversion of the HOS Rocinante, a first-of-its-kind Service Operation Vessel (SOV) for Hornbeck Offshore Services.
The innovative project marks a significant step forward in meeting the evolving needs of both the offshore wind and petro-energy sectors.
The HOS Rocinante, originally built as a 280-foot offshore supply vessel (OSV) in 2014, is undergoing a transformation at Eastern Shipbuilding’s 300-acre Allanton Shipyard. “The HOS Rocinante conversion is a groundbreaking project that underscores our commitment to innovation in the shipbuilding industry. We are proud to be the first to pioneer this transformation,” the company said on Facebook.
Service Operation Vessels (SOVs) play a crucial role in offshore wind farm operations. Their main function is to provide accommodation for technicians and transport them between wind turbines.
Hornbeck Offshore Services contracted Eastern Shipbuilding Group in 2023 for the conversion project. The vessel, designed in collaboration with VARD, will feature state-of-the-art capabilities including a motion-compensated offshore gangway, a 3D-compensated crane, and a battery hybrid power system for reduced emissions. With a capacity to accommodate up to 90 people, the SOV will support both construction and operations & maintenance activities in the offshore wind and petro-energy markets.
“We are excited to expand our deep experience in walk-to-work and offshore accommodation services with a fully capable SOV for the benefit of the offshore wind community and our offshore petroleum clients,” said Todd Hornbeck, President and CEO of Hornbeck Offshore.
The conversion project represents a significant shift in the maritime industry, showcasing the adaptability of existing vessels to meet new market demands. As the U.S. offshore wind sector continues to grow, innovations like the HOS Rocinante conversion may become increasingly crucial in bridging the gap between traditional offshore operations and renewable energy needs.
The HOS Rocinante is expected to be available for service in Spring 2025, potentially setting a new standard for vessel conversions in the offshore energy industry.
Hornbeck acquired the HOS Rocinante in 2023 as part of a deal with an affiliate of Edison Chouest Offshore (ECO) to acquire six 280 class DP-2 Jones Act-compliant offshore supply vessels.
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