Fugro Voyager, a purpose built DP2 geotechnical drilling vessel, is entering service with Fugro’s Offshore Geotechnical Division to expand its operations in the frontier areas of the Asia Pacific region. Specifically designed and built to address the varied demands of the region’s deepwater markets, the new vessel has several features which will enhance overall productivity, Furgo said.

At 83 meters by 20 meters, with a twin tower drilling derrick over a centrally located moon pool, the vessel has automated pipe and tool handling equipment to promote safe drilling floor operations. Equipment includes both downhole and seabed sampling and testing systems rated for 3,000 meters water depth.

Fugro Voyager is equipped with a dynamic positioning station-holding capability (DP 2) and is built to Comfort Class COMF-V(3) standards with quarters for up to 60 persons that are outfitted to the highest standards. A large soil laboratory is centrally located next to the drill floor giving a unique open-plan working environment for the geotechnicians. Other areas in the vessel include client offices, a conference room, day rooms and a gymnasium.

The new vessel represents a significant investment in deepwater equipment for the frontier areas of the Asia Pacific region and demonstrates Fugro’s commitment to the region. “With our specialist resources we are well-placed to help customers reduce the risks associated with wells and infrastructure as they venture into these remote expanses,” explained Jerry Paisley, Managing Director, Fugro Singapore Pte Ltd. “By permanently stationing this purpose-built deepwater asset in the region we are improving availability for our Asia Pacific customers and providing better workability to meet their project requirements.”

December sees Fugro Voyager departing for her maiden contract off the northwest coast of Australia, where she will undertake work to aid foundation design for seabed infrastructure. She will be performing seabed in situ testing, large diameter piston cores, drilled borings and downhole in situ tests in water depths up to 1,350 meters.

Fugro Voyager is part of Fugro’s global fleet renewal strategy, where older tonnage is being replaced with new modern vessels, thereby differentiating the company from other offshore geotechnical providers.