Reef Subsea has won its third subsea construction contract in West Africa this year, with the company to send a second deep- water-capable vessel to the region.

The latest contract – in shallow water – is for regional off- shore contractor Stapem Offshore, and will include cable lay duties on Sonangol’s Palanca field in Block 3 offshore Angola. The Reef Despina subsea construction vessel will transit to West Africa for a 30-day firm charter to provide operational support during the installation of five subsea electrical cables in water depths of between 40-100 m (131-328 ft). The vessel will be equipped with a cable lay spread, and will provide ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) and craneage assistance during the cable installation workscope, said Reef.

The Reef Despina will join its sister vessel, Reef Larissa, which located to West Africa earlier this year. The Reef Larissa has been undertaking ROV and survey operations, structure installation and commissioning support on two unnamed projects.

Both vessels are designed for worldwide service and are out- fitted with 150 tonne active heave compensated cranes and two workclass ROVs capable of operations in water depths of up to 3,000 m (9,843 ft).