GLO Marine successfully delivered the retrofit of a Platform Supply Vessel into a specialized cable laying and maintenance vessel.
Originally operating as a PSV, the vessel underwent a full conversion to enable subsea cable installation, maintenance, and testing activities. The scope included new accommodation for 28 crew members, integration of a complete cable lay spread, and the creation of dedicated cable storage spaces to support operational readiness.
To ensure regulatory alignment, the vessel’s documentation and key drawings were updated to reflect the as-built condition and comply with applicable DNV rules.
The key challenge was integrating multiple high-load cable handling systems and associated subsea tools into the existing PSV layout—while maintaining compliance across structure, safety, escape, and onboard systems.
The conversion required the installation and integration of:
50-ton A-frame
20-ton Cable Drum Engine (CDE)
18-ton Linear Cable Engine (LCE)
MD3 cable plough system
Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV)
Fiber optic cable testing equipment
Sheaves for towing and testing operations
To create the required space and support paths for equipment and operations, two new decks were installed above the main deck, new compartments were added, and cable storage spaces were created both below the main deck (after demolition works) and on the main deck.
This required careful coordination across structural design, fire integrity, escape arrangements, and mechanical systems (including ventilation and tank venting), ensuring the converted vessel met class expectations without compromising operational capability.
We evaluated the PSV’s baseline arrangement and constraints, then defined the target cable laying/maintenance capability and the high-level conversion concept.
Initial space claim and equipment layout (A-frame, CDE, LCE, plough, ROV, testing)
Early weight/stability and structural impact screening
High-level compliance gap check against DNV rules
We translated the concept into a class-aligned baseline design and set the approval route with DNV.
Updated general arrangement for the converted vessel
Additional 28-person accommodation solution
Cable storage concept (below main deck + main deck)
Two new deck additions and a compartment plan (concept level)
We produced the construction-ready engineering package and updated the vessel’s plans to match class requirements and as-built intent.
Structural design for two new decks, compartments, and foundations (50T A-Frame, 20T Cable Drum Engine, 18T Linear Cable Engine, MD3 cable plough system, and sheaves for towing/testing)
Integration engineering for cable lay spread and associated systems (including sheaves and subsea tools)
Updates to key drawings: GA, fire & safety, emergency escape, structural fire integrity, ventilation, tank vents/air pipes, freeboard, LSA, pilot ladder, door/window plans, manholes, and related class drawings
We closed technical and class actions and delivered final documentation aligned with the completed vessel.
Final verification of arrangements and system updates
Class approval support and comment resolution (DNV)
As-built drawing updates and handover package completion
We supported yard implementation to ensure the retrofit was installed correctly and interfaces were managed across disciplines.
On-site supervision and coordination during installation
Verification of equipment integration and operational layout
Alignment of safety-critical arrangements during execution
