Damen Shipyards Group and new Norwegian partner shipyard, Folla Maritime Service, have signed a contract with salmon farming company Nova Sea for the delivery of another hybrid workboat.
The agreement is for the construction and delivery of a new FollaPower 50EL hybrid workboat. This vessel will be number 106 from the Folla shipyard and will be the sixth vessel of this specific type to be delivered to Nova Sea. The contract is part of Nova Sea’s broader plan to replace its existing fleet with more environmentally friendly and sustainable vessels. Nova Sea places a strong emphasis on sustainable aquaculture and has a clear vision and strategy for operating in an environmentally responsible manner. The choice of the FollaPower 50EL as the new workboat is considered to demonstrate a commitment to reducing the environmental impact of operations.
Otto Sjølien, MD Folla Maritime Service, said: “Folla Maritime and Nova Sea have had a close partnership for some time, and we are proud to have once again earned their trust with the signing for another vessel. The FollaPower 50EL has been developed in close collaboration with Nova Sea, and this confirms the already strong and positive relationship between our shipyard and Nova Sea as our customer.”
The vessel is a single-hull design, 15m x 8m, powered by a twin propulsion system. It includes two electric motors, a 444kWh battery pack and two electric thrusters. The result is a quieter working environment and improved conditions for the crew as well as lower emissions to the atmosphere. The onboard generator can assist with propulsion and battery charging when necessary, and the vessel is equipped to perform a range of work operations.
Bjørn Helge Hjartåker, Production Director and COO, Nova Sea, said: “We have already taken delivery of several hybrid vessels from the shipyard, and several more are currently under construction. Nova Sea entered into a framework agreement with Folla Maritime back in 2022, and this contract reaffirms our strong partnership with them. We have implemented an investment plan to renew our fleet with a focus on sustainable and innovative solutions. Nova Sea, we remain committed to our trusted partners and development strategy.”
In April 2025, Damen reached an agreement to acquire a majority stake in Folla Maritime Service. This partnership brings together Damen’s experience in shipbuilding and Folla Maritime’s knowledge of the Norwegian aquaculture industry. By combining their complementary strengths, the shipbuilders say they are able to offer a diverse portfolio of multi-functional hybrid and electric vessels tailored for various offshore and nearshore aquaculture activities.
Image: Folla Maritime’s hybrid workboat (source: Damen Shipyards)
