Texas-based Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Co has launched Acadia, the first U.S.-flagged and Jones Act-compliant subsea rock installation (SRI) vessel, ahead of its deployment at Equinor’s Empire Wind 1 offshore wind project off the coast of New York.
The vessel was launched from the Hanwha Philly Shipyard and is scheduled for delivery in early 2026. Once operational, Acadia will transport and install up to 20,000 metric tonnes of rock to protect underwater infrastructure, including power transmission cables and wind turbine foundations.
“The launch of the Acadia marks a major milestone for our offshore energy business,” said Eleni Beyko, senior vice president for offshore energy at Great Lakes. “Upon delivery, the Acadia will start her journey towards New York for the installation of rock for the Empire Wind 1 offshore wind farm and continue working on the US East Coast on contracted work through the end of 2026.”
The 810-megawatt Empire Wind 1 project is being developed by Norway-based Equinor and is part of a broader push to expand offshore wind capacity along the U.S. East Coast.
Great Lakes said it has broadened its market outlook and plans to make Acadia available for work in international offshore energy markets. Discussions with clients are already underway for projects extending into 2027 and beyond, according to the company.
“We are excited to see the launch of the Acadia, getting us closer to her expected delivery early next year which will also mark the completion of our major new build programme,” said chief executive Lasse Petterson.The Acadia is the centrepiece of our offshore energy growth strategy and will begin operations immediately upon leaving the shipyard.
The vessel’s launch is seen as a strategic step in strengthening the U.S. offshore wind supply chain, which has been seeking to expand its domestic capabilities amid growing demand for renewable energy infrastructure.
