Prysmian Monna Lisa is a jewel

“We are celebrating 20 years of Prysmian this year. But of course, our history is much, much longer. We have been leaders in the cable space for around 150 years, from our origins in Pirelli, and today, we are the global leader partly from our history and know-how, and of course, partly because we have made a number of very important acquisitions over the years”, says Raul Gil, EVP Transmission Prysmian. 

“Today there is nobody else like Prysmian, we are by far the largest player in our space and the only player operating across all the key segments from Transmission, which I lead, to Power Grid, Electrification and Digital Solutions, " he adds.

The company likes to think that they are a one-stop-shop for customers, and its our focus on their customers and working together to make an impact for society that really makes the difference. 

The vessels are a jewel

Cable-laying vessels play an important part in the company´s strategy to support the global energy transition. 

“They are very important – because Prysmian offers everything in the submarine space. We don’t just make the cables, but we install, we monitor, we maintain, and we repair, «» says Gil.

“The vessels are a jewel for us. Because they reflect our expertise as the market leader, our history and unique view on how to deliver our operations at sea. These vessels play a central role in the energy transition, of course, for example connecting the energy generated from offshore wind into the heart of the networks. There is no energy transition without transmission. “

“Then, let’s not forget either – we aren’t just working on energy transition, but also on energy security. This is another essential aspect of what our vessels are delivering, and that is making Europe ever-more interconnected for a more reliable and independent energy system, says Gil.

“Pushes us to go further”

As a sister ship, the experiences from Prysmian Leondaro da Vinci have been essential both for VARD and for Prysmian

“The legacy of each vessel pushes us to go further. The Prysmian Monna Lisa cable-laying vessel is an advanced evolution of the Prysmian Leonardo da Vinci, built by VARD (part of Fincantieri Group). It combines proven features with new enhancements for better performance and flexibility. Prysmian Monna Lisa offers greater operational versatility, working efficiently in various sea and weather conditions. She also has outstanding green credentials, featuring technologies to reduce CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption. Prysmian is working on another vessel, Prysmian Alessandro Volta, which will set new market standards.”

“What motivated the investment in «Prysmian Monna Lisa», and how is it expected to strengthen Prysmian’s market position?”

“We are the market leader, and there are many reasons for this, but certainly, one is capacity. Pysmian Monna Lisa helps us extend our capacity in a crucial way, at a crucial time. But of course, it also advances technology, and this is just as important because only by offering cutting edge technology that nobody else can match can we remain ahead of the competition,” says Gil.

Advanced environmental features

Prysmian Monna Lisa is designed with advanced environmental features and sets new benchmarks in reducing the ecological footprint of offshore cable installation. Key green credentials include high-voltage shore connection, an enhanced energy storage system, biodiesel-compatible generators and advanced marine coating.

“Prysmian's Monna Lisa cable-laying vessel is designed for deep-water installations, even more than 3,000 meters, with two independent laying lines, one with capstan and one with linear cable engines, for enhanced flexibility. It boasts two carousels with capacities of 7,000 and 10,000 tonnes, ensuring the highest cable loading capacity in the market, which reduces transportation time and improves project efficiency. Additionally, the vessel has a bollard pull exceeding 200 tonnes that, combined with an upgraded A-frame and towing system, enables complex installation operations and simultaneous laying & burial with our expanding range of burial tools,” explains Gil.

“How has the collaboration with VARD Group and the Tulcea shipyard in Romania impacted the building process?”

“The collaboration was crucial for the successful construction of Prysmian Monna Lisa, reinforcing our strategy of partnering with top-tier companies to deliver innovative and sustainable infrastructure. This partnership builds on our strong relationship with Fincantieri, one of Europe’s leading shipbuilders and VARD's parent company. It's a European success story driven by shared values, technological excellence, and a proud Italian, and European, industrial heritage,” he says.

“Why did you choose VARD as a partner both for this and the previous vessel?”

“Vard and Fincantieri are leaders in the nautical field, and we aim to partner with the best. This strong collaboration ensured seamless coordination, high-quality engineering, and a deep mutual understanding during the construction of Prysmian Monna Lisa. The Tulcea shipyard played a crucial role in delivering the vessel on time and to the highest standards, meeting both Prysmian’s operational needs and sustainability goals, “says Gil..

“Building the world's most technically advanced vessel is challenging. However, through excellent collaboration and commitment with Vard, we overcame every obstacle. This synergy not only accelerated the project's execution but also set a benchmark for future developments in the cable-laying and maritime sectors.”

Fully operational

The vessel is now fully operational, as is ready for her first assignment in the US. The company´s priority is to ensure project efficiency and customer satisfaction.

“Prysmian Monna Lisa, like Prysmian Leonardo da Vinci, is also equipped with best in class facilities, high standard accommodation, and innovative layout. There is also a gym and auditorium space. We have lots of positive words from the crew, which is always reassuring. 

Prysmian plans to expand their fleet with even more vessels. As before mentioned Prysmian Alessandro Volta and Prysmian Marco Polo.

“How do these fit into the company’s long-term strategy?”

“They will both strengthen our position. It is great news for customers. Many have already seen how special the Prysmian Monna Lisa is, and they are excited to see her working for them. These new vessels, with some features different from Prysmian Monna Lisa, will boost Prysmian capacity to deliver complex projects. Both new vessels will be busy working on the projects that our customers entrust us to do and with the technology and know-how that only Prysmian can offer,” explains Gil.

“How do you view the development of the cable-laying market in light of the growing demand for renewable energy?”

“There has never been a moment like now. Demand is very strong, yes, but this means that more than ever we have to deliver our projects on time and with excellence. Our vessels are key to this and so is our expertise. What we are doing is a strategic infrastructure – making the energy transition happen and energy security for Europe attainable. The market recognises just how essential we are, and it is a responsibility that, as leader, we take with the seriousness that it requires to continue delivering and exceeding the expectations.”

 “What technological innovations do you expect to implement in future vessels?”

Part of what makes us a leader is that we always look to be ahead of everyone else, bringing new technology and know-how that our customers love. We can’t give you any surprises now, you’ll just have to wait, but you can be sure that we are always pushing the boundaries to make what we do more efficient, more sustainable and deliver what our customers are looking for.

“How was the news received that the vessel had won Ship of The Year, as the first ever from Italy?”

There is no doubt there is huge pride for us, and hopefully for Italy. But let’s say, you should be proud too because this is a European success. The technology that we have here is something that nobody else in the world has. We are global champions, in a sector that Europe is leading and technology that the entire world is envious of. We should all be proud because Prysmian, this vessel, is a true success story for everyone in Europe, Gil concludes.