Cable laying vessel Nexans Electra

Cutting-edge technology further improved design of cable laying vessel (CLV)

CLV Nexans Electra

We aim to expand our presence in the offshore wind and interconnection market with the introduction of Nexans Electra, latest addition to Nexans’ fleet of cutting-edge vessels. This third-generation cable laying vessel represents a significant step forward in meeting the growing demand for electrification worldwide. With unparalleled capabilities and a commitment to environmental sustainability, Nexans Electra is poised to drive the global energy transition forward.

Timeline and technical details

  • Expected delivery: 2026
  • Dimensions: 149.9 meters in length and 31 meters in width
  • Capabilities: Bundle laying of up to 4 cables simultaneously, 3 turntables with a 13,500-tons loading capacity, hosting a range of subsea tooling including jetting and burial tools.
  • Environmental impact: Significantly reduced footprint due to advanced hybrid power system and capability to run on biodiesel mix.

 

Unprecedented capabilities

Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Nexans Aurora, Nexans Electra pushes the boundaries of cable laying technology. Here are some of its key features:

Advanced design and comfort

The vessel is designed for maximum efficiency and comfort. With state-of-the-art facilities and ergonomic layouts, the vessel provides a comfortable and safe working environment for crew members.

Enhanced cable laying capacity

Equipped with three turntables boasting a 13,500-tonne loading capacity, the CLV can handle even the most challenging cable laying projects. Its ability to lay up to four cables simultaneously allows for greater flexibility and efficiency in project execution.

Versatility and flexibility

Nexans Electra is built to adapt to a wide range of project requirements. Whether it’s offshore wind farms, interconnectors, or subsea cable installations, the vessel’s versatile capabilities make it a valuable asset in the energy transition.

Environmental sustainability

Nexans Electra is committed to minimizing its environmental footprint. With an advanced hybrid power system and the capability to run on biodiesel mix, the vessel reduces emissions while delivering superior performance.

Nexans Electra represents the pinnacle of cable laying technology, combining cutting-edge innovation with a commitment to sustainability. As Nexans continues to lead the charge in the energy transition, this new vessel stands ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s electrified world.

Why “Electra”?

The name “Electra” holds profound significance, drawing from Greek mythology where it symbolizes radiance and brilliance. This name aligns perfectly with our vision to “Electrify the Future,” emphasizing electricity’s pivotal role in the global energy transition.

It also establishes a strong connection with our flagship vessel, Nexans Aurora, reinforcing our commitment to innovation and leadership in the industry. “Electra” embodies our mission to illuminate the path towards a sustainable energy future while honoring our heritage and values.

Nexans Electra Grand Block Ceremony

September 2024: Milestone celebration for advancing cable installation

Nexans’ next state-of-the-art cable installation vessel, the ‘Nexans Electra’ is another step closer to realisation. The grand block ceremony was celebrated on September 10, 2024 at CRIST, Poland. The vessel will be finalised at Ulstein Verft, Norway.

Representatives from the owner, shipbuilders, ship designer, and other partnering companies attended the ceremony. The design is a result from collaborative effort, drawing on the combined expertise of Nexans, Skipsteknisk, Ulstein Verft, and NOV, all leaders in designing, constructing or supplying equipment to advanced installation vessels.

Nexans Electra Grand Block Ceremony
Nexans Electra Grand Block Ceremony
Nexans Electra Grand Block Ceremony
Nexans Electra Grand Block Ceremony
Nexans Electra Grand Block Ceremony

June 2025: Major construction milestone reached

On June 2, 2025, Nexans has reached a key milestone in the construction of its new cable-laying vessel, Nexans Electra, as the hull has arrived at Ulstein Verft in Norway for the final outfitting phase. This marks the transition from structural construction—completed at the Crist Shipyard in Poland—to the detailed installation of vital systems such as electrical, mechanical, and propulsion equipment.

This step represents a major advance toward the vessel’s planned 2026 delivery and demonstrates tangible progress in Nexans’s investment to expand its offshore project capabilities. The outfitting phase will transform the hull into a fully operational, state-of-the-art vessel, reinforcing Nexans’s leadership in subsea electrification and readiness to meet growing global demand for offshore wind and interconnector projects.

Read the full news

November 2025: Hull launch marks a key milestone in the vessel’s construction

Nexans has reached a new key milestone in the construction of the Nexans Electra with the successful launch of the vessel on 13 November 2025 at the Ulstein Verft shipyard in Norway. Conducted from a covered dock hall, this step marks the transition to the final outfitting phase, where technical systems will be installed before the first sea trials. Designed to carry 13,500 tonnes of cables and capable of laying up to four simultaneously, the Nexans Electra will, upon its delivery in 2026, significantly strengthen Nexans’ ability to execute complex EPCI subsea cable projects and support the global energy transition.

Read the press release
CLV Nexans Electra
CLV Nexans Electra
CLV Nexans Electra
CLV Nexans Electra
CLV Nexans Electra

Global energy operations

The Nexans Electra represents a significant step forward in offshore renewables and embodies over a century of Nexans’ experience in submarine cable installation, advancing cable installation in terms of capacity and capability.

Based on an ST-297 CLV design by Skipsteknisk, the vessel is an updated version of the Nexans Aurora, delivered in 2021. She is specially designed to transport and lay various types of subsea cables, including cable bundles, and recovery and repair, and can perform effectively in challenging weather conditions with exceptional characteristics in manoeuvrability and station-keeping.

This cutting-edge, DP3 cable laying vessel features a split turntable on deck capable of holding up to 10,000t of cable, an under-deck turntable with a 3,500t cable capacity, and a fibre optic basket holding 450t.

The vessel will play a vital role in installing Nexans’ cutting-edge HV submarine cables, helping to connect offshore wind farms to the grid, supporting the electrification of offshore petroleum installations, and creating interconnectors between countries.

When will the Nexans Electra be useful?

offshore-wind-farms

Offshore Wind Farms

subsea cable

Subsea interconnection