Dive System Upgrade for DRASS Bell Handling on DSV Da Vinci

About the Client

Boskalis is a global leader in offshore services, operating the DSV Da Vinci, a specialist saturation diving support vessel used for subsea construction, inspection, and intervention projects.

The Challenge

The twin bell handling system on the Da Vinci was originally configured to operate exclusively from the Dive Control Room located on the vessel’s shelter deck. While effective under normal conditions, this setup created a single point of failure. In the event of a fire, flooding, or any emergency requiring evacuation of Dive Control, there was no alternative method to recover the diving bells from subsea.
To address this critical safety gap, Boskalis required a system upgrade that would enable full emergency bell recovery from alternative locations on the vessel, independent of Dive Control.

The Solution

Orca Oceanic Systems (ORCA) was contracted to deliver a comprehensive dive system upgrade. The scope included:

• Modification of the DRASS bell handling control system to support remote plug-in panels
• Installation of two emergency junction boxes on the forecastle deck
• Fabrication and installation of new transit frames and cable trays
• Full cabling and wiring modifications to both bell handling control panels and Dive Control system
• Removal of existing HPP junction boxes and replacement with upgraded relay panels and connections

The upgrade concluded with a full functional test under normal and emergency scenarios, verifying system performance and compliance with safety standards.

The Result

The DSV Da Vinci now has the capability to perform complete recovery of either diving bell using portable remote-control panels connected at designated emergency positions on the forecastle deck. This upgrade significantly improves system resilience and operational safety, ensuring bell recovery even in the event of Dive Control loss. The project was delivered within the agreed three-week schedule and budget, with zero disruption to vessel operations.

Why ORCA

ORCA’s proven expertise in dive system upgrades and electrical control modifications, combined with their deep understanding of saturation diving safety, made them the ideal partner for this critical project. Their ability to deliver a fully tested, compliant solution with minimal downtime reinforced Boskalis’ confidence in operational readiness.

Key Takeaways

• Client Need: Eliminate single point of failure in bell recovery operations by enabling emergency control from alternative locations.
• Expert Selection: ORCA chosen for technical capability in dive system upgrades and control system modifications.
• Structured Approach: Installation of emergency junction boxes, wiring modifications, and remote-control capability.
• Deliverables: Fully tested and compliant upgrade delivered within three weeks, without impacting vessel availability.
• Outcome: Enhanced safety, improved system resilience, and operational readiness for critical subsea operations.

Looking to Upgrade Your Dive System or DSV?

Partner with ORCA for expert dive system upgrades, control modifications, and safety enhancements.  Email our team to discuss your project requirements.