Retrofitted, Recomissioned, Reliable
Launched in 1986 and entering service the following year, MSV Seawell was widely regarded as the most advanced offshore support vessel of her generation, and credited with pioneering subsea light well intervention in the North Sea.
Purpose-built as a monohull light well intervention and saturation diving vessel, she introduced a series of industry firsts, including the world’s first wireline intervention on a horizontal subsea tree and the first subsea tree replacement carried out from a dynamically positioned vessel.
Key Facts
A Major Retrofit to Secure Long-Term Capability
To ensure Seawell could continue operating at the highest level in a changing offshore environment, the vessel underwent a comprehensive multi-million dollar retrofit in 2014 at Damen Shiprepair in Vlissingen. The eight-month programme was designed to extend operational life, improve efficiency and safety, and bring key systems in line with modern offshore requirements, such as replacing her former Hedemora generators with six Bergen C25:33L8 generator sets.
Selected for their compact footprint, high power density, and proven durability, the Bergen gensets deliver stable and responsive power for critical onboard systems. This includes dynamic positioning, diving operations, subsea intervention equipment, and hotel loads during extended offshore operation.
Proven Vessel. Renewed for the Future.
With its extensive retrofit complete MSV Seawell remains a highly capable and relevant asset for offshore well operations. The vessel continues to support safe, efficient, and cost-effective subsea intervention and decommissioning projects, demonstrating how thoughtful engineering and reliable power can extend the value of proven platforms.
For Helix Energy Solutions, Seawell represents a long-term investment in capability and readiness. For Bergen Engines, the project underscores the role of robust, service-friendly generator sets in enabling complex offshore operations – decades after a vessel first enters service.
Contact us
Please fill in your contact details below and we’ll reply as soon as we’re able.
Contact us
Please fill out the enquiry form, and our dedicated team will promptly attend to your request