The vessel is capable of performing a wide range of operations, including offshore construction, cable laying, and IMR assignments.
“Edda Freya has two crane positions on board, depending on the type of operation – whether it’s cable laying or other tasks. This time, we received an urgent assignment requiring the crane to be moved from midship to the aft. The relocation had to happen quickly, and Ulstein Verft were swift to accept the job”, says Fleet Manager Arne Sørstrønen at Østensjø.
“Despite the short notice, the yard had both the capacity and equipment we needed, with lifting capability being the most critical requirement. Ulstein is known for its flexibility, and they provided skilled personnel and the necessary expertise in disciplines such as mechanical and electrical.”
“The yard’s strategic location, right on the edge of the ocean, is also a key factor”, Sørstrønen emphasises.
Time is essential
Hans Ole Låbakk, Area Sales Manager Aftermarket at Ulstein Verft, explains that aftermarket projects of this kind are often referred to as “just-in-time deliveries”, where time is tight and unforeseen events may require rapid involvement of new resources.
“For shipowners, who are under time pressure due to contracts with their clients, it is absolutely crucial to minimise time alongside the quay. That’s why adaptability, efficiency, and precision deliveries are key factors when choosing a partner to prepare the vessel for its next operation.”
Edda Freya upon arrival at Ulstein Verft- Edda Freya after completed mobilisation
Far from “just a lifting operation”
In projects like this, great coordination, adaptability, and efficiency make all the difference. Mobilisation and demobilisation are typically carried out using a Terex crawler crane with a lifting capacity of 600 tonnes, operated by a dedicated heavy lift department at the yard. Careful planning, safety, and precision are essential for such operations.
Hans Ole Låbakk says the challenges were handled smoothly and efficiently, with a strong service mindset from all parties involved. To succeed in such lifting operations – and all the surrounding work – collaboration across disciplines at the yard and with the client is crucial for a successful delivery.
The newly appointed Project Manager Geir-Arne Sæternes Walø has extensive experience in the shipyard industry, both as an operator and engineer, but this was his first time taking on the role of project manager.
“I’ve yet to experience a situation where we didn’t have the expertise we needed here at the yard”, he says, and elaborates:
“New challenges along the way meant we had to bring in personnel from other departments. For example, outfitting and accommodation departments weren’t initially involved in the project, but they managed to mobilise quickly and effectively to help bring the project to completion. The collaboration with the shipowner has been excellent – they are solution-oriented and provided crucial information at short notice.”
Interested in our heavy lift services?
Ulstein Verft specialises in heavy lift and transportation services. Our flexible equipment solves many lifting and transportation challenges on land and at sea.
