SV Noordhoek Pathfinder Launched
The launch of the Noordhoek Pathfinder, a 62m DPII ROV and Survey Support Vessel, took place at the De Hoop Shipyard in Foxhol, The Netherlands, on 7th November. The launching ceremony was officiated by Miss Julia Anna Noordhoek, granddaughter of Mr Leen Noordhoek and daughter of Mr Cees Noordhoek, Directors of Noordhoek.The Noordhoek Pathfinder is currently undergoing the final stages of installation and commissioning of the crane and survey spread prior to commencing sea trials. She will be fully commissioned and ready for deployment during early 2010. The Noordhoek Pathfinder is mobilised with a Grade 2 Dynamic Positioning system (DPII), diesel electric drive, a large moon pool and a 25 tonnes offshore crane. She is also equipped with work and inspection class ROV systems, side-scan sonar towfish, McCartney Focus 2 ROTV systems and a technologically advanced survey suite.
With accommodation for 40 people split between single and double cabins, she will be a very comfortable and spacious vessel to work on. The Noordhoek Pathfinder exceeds the latest environmental and acoustic standards ensuring quiet operations while at survey speeds. The most accurate and reliable survey equipment will be installed and the systems will have fullplug and play interconnectivity. The vessel’s main functions will be inspection, repair and maintenance, hydrography, geotechnical investigation and analogue/digital geophysical survey
The addition of the Noordhoek Pathfinder to the Noordhoek fleet demonstrates the company’s strong commitment to the IRM and Survey market in the North Sea where Noordhoek currently operates the DPII DSV Noordhoek Singapore. The Noordhoek Constructor, Noordhoek’s other new build, is a 76m DPII Saturation Dive Support Vessel. She is also undergoing the final stages of construction and is due to commence operations in early 2010, strengthening Noordhoek’s expertise in this field.