Allseas’ newbuild heavy transport vessel to sport Wärtsilä’s ‘future-proof’ engines

January 22, 2026, by Melisa Cavcic

Finnish technology group Wärtsilä has been hired to equip a new purpose-built semi-submersible heavy transport vessel (HTV), which will expand the fleet of Switzerland-based offshore contractor Allseas Group upon completion, with engines, featuring readiness to use alternative sustainable fuels and a modular design, said to enable a significant reduction in maintenance requirements and costs.

Wärtsilä will supply the engines for Allseas’ new semi-submersible Heavy Transport Vessel, built to deliver lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency; Credit: Allseas

The Finnish firm will supply the engines, described as “future-proof,” for Allseas’ new purpose-built semi-submersible HTV, which is being built at the Guangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) facilities in China. The Wärtsilä 31 engine order for the vessel, designed to minimize exhaust emissions and maximize fuel efficiency, was booked in Q4 2025.

Sytske de Groot, Manager of Naval Architecture – Allseas, commented: “This new HTV strengthens the flexibility of our fleet and how we deliver projects. We selected the Wärtsilä 31 engine for its high efficiency, future-ready design and ability to transition to low- and zero-carbon fuels, which supports both operational adaptability and our long-term sustainability ambitions.”

The heavy transport vessel will operate with four Wärtsilä 31 engines, each fitted with a Wärtsilä NOx Reducer for emissions abatement. The delivery is scheduled for the first quarter of 2028. The Finnish player has already supplied equipment to multiple vessels in Allseas’ fleet, including the engines for the Swiss firm’s purpose-built cargo barge, Braveheart.

Stefan Nysjö, Vice President of Power Supply at Wärtsilä Marine, emphasized: “The Wärtsilä 31 engine delivers what the industry needs today and prepares operators for tomorrow.

“Its exceptional fuel efficiency reduces operating costs immediately, while its capability to convert to sustainable fuels ensures a clear path toward decarbonisation. This makes it one of the most future-ready propulsion solutions available.”

This comes after Wärtsilä revealed its decision to sell Wärtsilä Gas Solutions to Mutares SE & Co. KGaA. The firm recently won a long-term lifecycle agreement for 12 liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers (LNGC) with MOL Global Ship Management.