‘Engineering marvel’ MPI Adventure pays visit to Port of Larne

The Port of Larne has welcomed a very special visitor; the world’s first purpose-built wind turbine installation vessel.
By Stephen Gamble
Published 13th Nov 2015, 12:33 BST
MPI Adventure docked at the Port of Larne. INLT 47-650-SGMPI Adventure docked at the Port of Larne. INLT 47-650-SG
MPI Adventure docked at the Port of Larne. INLT 47-650-SG

The MPI Adventure docked in the port on Saturday for a layover, as it prepares to travel across the Irish Sea to the Robin Rigg wind farm off the Scottish coast.

The 136m long ship is the most advanced of its kind in the world.

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Built in China and launched in 2010, the colossal vessel is designed to transport, lift and install wind turbines and their foundations.

The ship is fitted with six 73m high legs, which allow it to jack itself up and transform into a stable working platform.

Its giant crane is capable of lifting up to 1000 tonnes, and the ship provides accommodation for up to 112 personnel during the installation process.

Port of Larne harbour master Trevor Wright told the Times: “The Adventure is well suited to our berth here at Larne.

“We are delighted to have this engineering marvel docked here and hope to see it return some day.”

Related topics:ChinaIrish Sea