Nexans Electra makes a splash, sea trials set for spring (Gallery)

November 17, 2025, by Nadja Skopljak

The hull of Nexans’ new cable-laying vessel (CLV) Nexans Electra has been launched from the dock hall at Ulstein Verft in Norway, marking the start of the finalizing phase of testing and tuning before delivery next year.

The vessel is nearing the completion of the outfitting phase, which has included the installation of critical systems, such as the main generator sets, power package, deck machinery, and topside equipment. The final assembly, installation and paint work will continue, and all systems will be tested and tuned, leading up to sea trials in the spring of 2026.

The hull was launched from the dock hall on November 13.

Based on an ST-297 CLV design by Skipsteknisk, Nexans Electra, ordered as the second vessel by Nexans at Norway’s Ulstein Verft, is an updated version of the sister vessel Nexans Aurora, delivered in 2021.

With 155.2 meters in length and 31 meters in width, the vessel is designed for laying and servicing power and fiber-optic cables. Equipped with three turntables boasting a 13,500-ton loading capacity, it will be capable of bundle laying of up to four cables simultaneously, hosting a range of subsea tooling including jetting and burial tools.

Palfinger is delivering a comprehensive equipment package, Remacut, part of NOV, the cable-lay equipment, Red Rock an upgraded crane package, and Hydroniq Coolers several of its Pleat seawater coolers.