As offshore wind projects continue to move into increasingly challenging environments, installation contractors are under constant pressure to maximise vessel uptime, minimise delays, and maintain reliable subsea monitoring throughout every stage of cable installation.
The CableFish system has been developed specifically to support these demands, providing a dependable alternative for cable touchdown monitoring during offshore wind array cable installation campaigns.
Operating Beyond Typical ROV Limitations
One of the key operational advantages of the CableFish system is its ability to continue operating in higher tidal flow conditions than would typically be achievable with a work-class ROV.
During cable installation campaigns, strong tidal currents can restrict ROV operations and lead to costly downtime while waiting for suitable conditions. By deploying CableFish for cable touchdown monitoring, installation teams can maintain subsea positioning and visibility and continue operations during conditions that may otherwise interrupt progress.
This increased operational window helps reduce delays and improves overall installation efficiency.
Reducing Pressure on Critical ROV Operations
Array cable installation is a complex multi-stage process involving numerous subsea activities, inspections, and monitoring tasks throughout the campaign.
Traditionally, many of these activities rely heavily on a single ROV spread. This can place considerable pressure on both equipment and personnel, particularly during extended offshore operations.
Using CableFish during the cable lay and touchdown monitoring phases allows the work-class ROV to focus on other critical subsea tasks. Reducing ROV utilisation in this way not only improves operational flexibility but can also help lower the risk of equipment fatigue, failures, and associated downtime.
For offshore projects operating on tight schedules, reducing unnecessary strain on critical subsea assets can deliver significant operational benefits.
Improved Touchdown Monitoring Accuracy
Reliable touchdown monitoring is essential during array cable installation to ensure accurate cable placement and maintain confidence in the installation process.
The CableFish system provides highly consistent and accurate touchdown point monitoring, delivering reliable real-time subsea data to installation teams throughout cable lay operations.
By providing stable and repeatable monitoring performance, the system supports improved decision-making offshore and helps maintain installation quality standards.
Safe and Rapid Launch and Recovery
Supporting the operational efficiency of the system is the latest CableFish Launch and Recovery System (LARS), designed and built in-house.
The new LARS enables rapid and safe launch and recovery operations, helping minimise deck operation time while improving offshore safety and operational workflow.
Key features of the latest system include:
- SWL 200kg
- 4m extendable boom
- 230V power supply
- Programmable and remotely controlled operation
- Designed and manufactured in-house
The system is now supporting operations on a European offshore wind project.
Supporting Modern Offshore Wind Installation Campaigns
As offshore wind developments continue to scale in size and complexity, installation contractors increasingly require robust and flexible subsea monitoring solutions that can improve uptime and reduce operational risk.
The CableFish system continues to evolve in response to these operational challenges, providing a practical solution for efficient cable installation support in demanding offshore environments.