Prysmian’s 193-Meter CLV Alessandro Volta Performing Sea Trials

October 23, 2026 · 1 day ago

Managing Editor

Prysmian’s new cable-laying vessel (CLV) Alessandro Volta, built by Norway's VARD, has begun sea trials in Norway.

The Norwegian ship designer and shipbuilder commenced construction of the CLV in September 2024 at its shipyard in Tulcea, Romania, where the vessel’s hull was erected in September 2025.

In mid-January this year, Alessandro Volta left the shipyard in Romania for Norway, where its construction was completed.

Both Prysmian and VARD reported today, October 23, that the vessel was currently performing sea trials.

With a length of 192.8 meters, the cable layer is the largest vessel ever launched by VARD, the shipbuilder said.

Built on the VARD 9 18 design, the vessel is equipped with three carousels for a total load capacity of 19,000 tons, with the system of tensioners able to sustain a maximum tension of 60 tons, and capable of conducting power cable lay in up to 1,500 meters of water depth.

Prysmian's new, latest-generation heavy-duty plough, developed by the UK’s SMD, will be deployed on Alessandro Volta, as well as on Monna Lisa.

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