CIMC Raffles and Van Oord Deepen Ties with Contract for Second Subsea Rock Installation Vessel

On January 12, CIMC Raffles and Van Oord finalized a construction contract for a second subsea rock installation (SRI) vessel. The contract marks a new chapter in a strategic partnership that was revitalized in 2021, underscoring the growing trust between the two sides.

Classed by Bureau Veritas (BV), Van Oord’s next-generation SRI vessel represents the pinnacle of industry standards in design, operational performance, and environmental sustainability. Measuring 199 meters in length and 32.2 meters in breadth, the DP2-equipped vessel boasts an impressive rock-carrying capacity of 35,000 tonnes.

The companies rekindled their partnership in 2021, ending a decade-long hiatus with a new shipbuilding contract. This collaboration culminated in January 2025 with CIMC Raffles’ successful delivery of the Boreas, an offshore wind turbine installation vessel. Throughout that project, CIMC Raffles earned Van Oord’s confidence through impeccable craftsmanship, strict adherence to delivery timelines, and comprehensive service. By flawlessly executing every phase - from design optimization and construction management to troubleshooting and after-sales support - CIMC Raffles actively demonstrated its commitment to client success, laying a robust foundation for their future further cooperation.

In July 2025, CIMC Raffles and the shipowner Van Oord signed a construction contract for 1+1 subsea rock installation vessels. In the construction contract of the first subsea rock installation vessel, both parties agreed on an optional vessel right clause. This clause granted the shipowner the right to decide whether to additionally order a second vessel based on demand within an agreed period. Because of recognizing CIMC Raffles' technical strength, project execution capability, and the market competitiveness of its ship products, the shipowner Van Oord signed the construction contract for the second vessel with CIMC Raffles, further deepening the cooperation between the two parties.

Securing this contract is a significant milestone in the cooperation between the two parties that highlights CIMC Raffles’ core competitiveness and stellar market reputation in the specialized vessel sector. Looking ahead, CIMC Raffles is committed to doubling down on technological innovation to deliver premium vessels and services to the global maritime industry, positioning itself at the vanguard of the shift toward green, smart, and efficient offshore engineering equipment.