Boskalis, the Dutch offshore services company, has announced the successful completion of its largest semi-submersible heavy transport vessel's first decommissioning project. The Boka Vanguard vessel was utilized to transport a floating production unit (FPU) to a ship recycling facility, marking a significant milestone for the company.

The project involved Boskalis' subsidiary, SMIT Salvage, securing and disconnecting an FPU off the West African coast. The FPU, believed to be the Zafiro Producer based on accompanying photos, previously operated in ExxonMobil's Zafiro oil field in Equatorial Guinea. The FPU encountered issues when water entered the ageing structure, resulting in the cessation of production at the Zafiro field.

The Boka Vanguard vessel transported the FPU to Scandinavia, where it was delivered to the Modern American Recycling Services (M.A.R.S.) Europe ship recycling yard in the Port of Frederikshavn. Boskalis expressed gratitude to its joint team for their efforts in the successful marine decommissioning and transport project.

The Boka Vanguard vessel has showcased its versatility in various operations. In addition to decommissioning projects, it has transported the Carnival Vista cruise ship and a newly built fish farm. Notably, the vessel recently carried six caissons, weighing over 93,000 tons, making it the heaviest cargo it has ever transported.

Built in 2012 by Hyundai Heavy Industries, the Boka Vanguard is a semi-submersible vessel designed for heavy transport and offshore dry-docking. With a deadweight of 116,175 dwt and a total installed power of 28,500 kW, the vessel can reach a maximum speed of 14 knots.

Boskalis is currently engaged in the FSO Safer project, working under a contract secured with UNDP through SMIT Salvage. The project involves oil removal from the FSO Safer tanker and includes various phases, beginning with an on-site inspection of the vessel and cargo to establish a safe working environment.