Following the conversion of Odin Viking into a modern subsea vessel, Evotec’s new Launch and Recovery System (L-LARS) has gone into full operation. Early feedback from crew, operators, and technical leads is unanimous: this is a compact, flexible and robust solution that stands out from the rest.

“We deployed the ROV using the LARS in significant wave heights of around four metres – and the conditions were rough. But it performed flawlessly. It just sang through the winch,” says Odin Viking’s Captain Markus Abrahamsson.

Evotec’s L-LARS, part of the FlexiLARS™ portfolio, has made a strong impression on offshore professionals.

Fast, Seamless and Intuitive

ROV pilot and technician Ole Aleksander Saltnes, representing Oceaneering, echoes the sentiment:

“This system has worked exceptionally well. It reacts instantly and operates smoothly. It’s been a pleasure to run.”

He highlights that the system is intuitive to operate, and credits Evotec’s on-site personnel for strong onboarding and training support:

“You can tell this has been designed and set up by professionals. The training was excellent, and collaboration with the Evotec team was easy and efficient.”

Design That Makes a Difference

Oceaneering played a central role in selecting and mobilising the LARS solution. Andreas Aasbø, Senior Project Manager with over 20 years of ROV mobilisation experience, points out what makes Evotec’s approach stand out:

“Evotec are clearly more innovative. They think differently. The L-frame design looks a bit unconventional compared to a traditional A-frame, but it offers significantly better access, flexibility and space efficiency – especially important when operating cage-based TMS solutions. It’s a fresh approach.”

Morten Ferkingstad, SSR Installation Superintendent at Oceaneering, adds that the system’s motion characteristics are key in high-frequency deployment operations:

“There’s constant movement in anchor handling and subsea operations. Having good tilt and smooth handling is essential. Evotec’s LARS performs efficiently without compromising safety.”

Captain Abrahamsson supports this from an operational perspective:

“The heave compensation is excellent, and the structure itself is compact and lightweight – a big advantage when deck space is tight. We’ve run multiple cycles during operations with zero issues.”

A System That Opens New Possibilities

According to Abrahamsson, the LARS system has expanded the vessel’s operational profile:

“It enables us to combine rig-move capability with ROV operations. That means we can offer more multi-functional work – leading to better rates and increased project opportunities. It aligns perfectly with our strategy moving forward.”

He also commends the working relationship with Evotec:

“I’ve been involved from pre-commissioning through installation and sea trials, and the collaboration has been excellent. It’s clear these are people who know their craft.”

From Noise to Precision – The Electric Advantage

One recurring point in the feedback is the contrast between Evotec’s electric drive solution and older hydraulic systems.

“It’s like comparing a brand-new Porsche to an old Volvo 240. Everything is precise and responsive. You feel completely in control – and you can hear everything that’s going on,” says Aasbø.

Ferkingstad concludes:

“The commissioning team knew the system inside and out. That gave us confidence. From engineering to execution, it’s been a strong and professional delivery across the board.”

Project Facts: Odin Viking

Odin Viking is a multi-purpose offshore vessel of the Anchor Handling Tug Supply Vessel (AHTS) type, designed as UT 731 CD and built in 2003 at Kleven Verft in Norway. The vessel is operated by the Swedish shipping company Viking Supply Ships.

In 2025, the vessel was converted to support subsea operations, including full ROV capability, and is now equipped with a new Launch and Recovery System (LARS) supplied by Evotec. Installation and testing were carried out at Ulstein Verft.

Evotec delivered a complete LARS solution consisting of an L-frame, umbilical winch, and control system, tailored for confined operational spaces and modern ROV missions. The solution was developed in close dialogue with the end client Oceaneering, who is the ROV operator onboard.

The sea trial ran from Ulsteinvik via Bergen and into offshore waters west of Norway, where the vessel, crew, and system were tested in realistic operational conditions prior to the first commercial assignment. Representatives from Viking Supply Ships, Oceaneering, and Evotec were all present during testing and commissioning.