Colombo Dockyard delivers “c/s sophie germain” built for Orange Marine, France

Colombo Dockyard PLC made history by delivering the first-ever Cable Laying and Repair Vessel (CLRV) to the European market from Sri Lanka on July 28.

“Our client Orange Marine, a prominent French company, is a specialist in submarine telecommunications. They excel in every aspect of this field, including initial design, engineering, installation of intercontinental and regional links, as well as the maintenance of existing cables. Their fleet is widely recognised for its expertise and is considered one of the most experienced in the world, representing an impressive 15 per cent of the global fleet in this sector,” the local company said in a media release.

Colombo Dockyard delivered the first Cable Layer (CLV) to Japan in 2019. Now, with the delivery of "C/S Sophie Germain," this becomes the second vessel of its category delivered by the shipyard. This remarkable accomplishment establishes Colombo Dockyard as a leading player in the international market, earning a reputation for successfully delivering two Cable Layer vessels within a short span of just five years.

The ceremonial delivery of "C/S Sophie Germain" took place at Dock No 4 south pier of Colombo Dockyard (CDPLC) premises, and was attended by owners, dignitaries from the Embassies of France and Japan in Sri Lanka, officials from government institutions including BOI, EDB, SLPA and Sri Lanka Navy, Merchant Shipping, state and private banks, Class surveyors, CDPLC top management, and employees.

During the ceremony, Emmanuel Decugis, the Ship Newbuilding Project Director of Orange Marine, broke the traditional Sri Lankan milk pot to symbolise the delivery of the ship. He also received the ship model on behalf of Orange Marine. The event was further attended by representatives from Orange Marine, including superintendents and the ship's crew, making it a significant moment for the company.