In September 2020, the three azimuth propulsion thrusters were installed in the cable-laying vessel 'Nexans Aurora', which is under construction at Ulstein Verft. Each thruster has an effect of 3,200 kW and a diameter of 2,900 mm.
The thrusters are part of a major delivery from Brunvoll, which also includes two bow thrusters (3,100 kW), and a retractable azimuth unit of 3,000kW.
Parallell work tasks
Multiple operations are going on at the same time during a ship construction newbuild project such as the 'Nexans Aurora'. The photo below shows the heave of one of the two tensioners, a Maats Tech delivery. The vessel is also currently being painted.
Fuel costs are rising, emission requirements are tightening, and vessel owners are searching for long-term energy solutions. A concept study by Ulstein indicates that a nuclear hybrid solution could reduce conventional fuel consumption by more than 50%, and in some operational modes eliminate it entirely.
In expedition cruising, time at the destination is the product being sold. A vessel that arrives hours earlier at its destination creates more time for guest experiences. That time can be converted into additional landings, extra Zodiac excursions, more wildlife encounters and, ultimately, a richer expedition experience.
Effective from 1 September 2026, Knut L. Barstad assumes the position of Managing Director of Ulstein Verft. Barstad currently serves as Deputy Managing Director at the yard and has worked at Ulstein since 2018.