The excitement was palpable as the gigantic closed containment system, Marine Donut, was jacked up and moved from the construction dock onto a barge. There, we will do the final touches and prepare for transport.
The Dutch company Mammout was responsible for the sea launch, in collaboration with BOA. It is an experienced team that has launched many heavy structures, but this is the first time the construction is made of thermoplastic—a material that is softer than steel.
Therefore, there was some anticipation surrounding the operation. The ground conditions at the dock required the Donut to first traverse a small barge and then transfer to the large barge that will transport the fish farming facility to Molde. There, the customer SalMar will use it for salmon farming.
"It was definitely exciting," says Nils Johan Tufte, CEO of Bluegreen, visibly proud and relieved when Marine Donut finally safely settled onto the barge.
Family, friends, and other spectators had gathered at the dock to witness the event. Nils Johan's wife, Marianne, was among them:
"Maybe I'll get to see him at home a bit more now," she laughs, adding, "But I don't think so. He always has many projects in the works!"
