Great Lakes Announces the Launch of the Acadia, the First U.S. Flagged, Jones Act Subsea Rock Installation Vessel

Core Viewpoint - Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation has launched the Acadia, the first U.S. flagged, Jones Act-compliant subsea rock installation vessel, marking a significant milestone in its Offshore Energy strategy [1][5]. Company Overview - Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation is the largest provider of dredging services in the United States, with a history of completing significant international projects and a focus on expanding into the offshore energy industry [6]. - The company operates approximately 200 specialized vessels, making it the owner of the largest and most diverse fleet in the U.S. dredging industry [6]. Vessel Specifications and Impact - The Acadia is designed to transport and install up to 20,000 metric tons of rock on the seabed, providing essential scour protection for subsea infrastructure [3]. - The construction of the Acadia utilized steel sourced from Ohio and labor from multiple states, creating over one million manhours of high-paying jobs [4]. Future Operations - Upon delivery, the Acadia will begin operations for the Empire Wind I offshore wind farm and will continue contracted work along the U.S. East Coast through the end of 2026 [5]. - The company has been actively engaging with clients for new offshore energy projects for 2027 and beyond [5].