DeepOcean-chartered Volantis performs its first task in US waters 

After introducing its jet trenching system to the U.S. market, DeepOcean has completed the burial of a fuel support pipeline in the US Gulf of Mexico for Genesis Energy. 

DeepOcean’s trenching system, UT-1, was utilized for the burial of a portion of the High Island A5 fuel support pipeline.

According to DeepOcean, the UT-1 delivered superior results on the designated six-inch pipeline sections, meeting burial requirements that included a three-mile section stretching across the Sabine Pass Fairway that called for the pipeline to be lowered to 10-foot top of the product.

The trenching operations were carried out using the Volantis subsea construction vessel, which has been on charter with DeepOcean since 2008, marking its inaugural job in U.S. waters. 

“We are thrilled to introduce our UT-1 jet trenching system and the Volantis to the US market. The UT-1 is capable of drastically changing the trenching industry in US waters, providing our clients with the same, unparalleled results we have seen in other regions worldwide,” said Tony Stokes, President of DeepOcean’s US operation.

DeepOcean’s UT-1 is a 2,800hp trencher with versatility, designed for subsea trenching of cables and pipelines with a diameter of up to 46 inches. It can trench to depths exceeding 3 meters, functioning in water depths of up to 2,500 meters. Additionally, it can perform backfill operations to enhance pipeline protection.

According to DeepOcean, the Volantis and UT-1 are scheduled for further projects both offshore in the U.S. and globally, offering a wide range of trenching services for subsea pipelines and cables.

“The UT-1 ensures the integrity and stability of subsea assets, enhancing the overall reliability of subsea infrastructure. We are confident that the combination of the UT-1 and the Volantis exceeds the expectations of our US customers,” added Stokes.

Recently, DeepOcean together with Aker BP completed subsea trials with an autonomous inspector drone (AID) at an Aker BP-operated Alvheim subsea field in the North Sea. 

The announcement came shortly after DeepOcean reported it had acquired digital company Btwn AS, aligning with its goal to enhance offerings within digitalization and automation of subsea operations.