Strategic Marine delivers first surface effect ship

Singapore-based Strategic Marine has completed and delivered its first surface effect ship (SES) to Netherlands-headquartered All Energies Services (AES) as the company expands its activities in the offshore oil and gas sector. The contract is a significant milestone in Strategic Marine’s continuing collaboration with Aircat Vessels, Espeland and Skomedal Naval Architects (ESNA), and AES.

The 35m-long SES is designed for offshore crew transfer operations at speeds of more than 50 knots. Personnel can be transferred in sea conditions of up to 2.5m, the company said. Features of the vessel include active motion-dampening technology developed by SES, an active air cushion that dampens noise, vibration and reduces movement, and a reinforced hull. 

Strategic Marine CEO commented: “We are delighted to deliver our first SES to AES, a testament to Strategic Marine’s commitment to providing innovative, high-speed solutions for the offshore market. This vessel represents a significant leap forward in comfort, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, and we look forward to further expanding our capabilities of building SES vessels in the years to come. Our ongoing partnership with AIRCAT and ESNA has been instrumental in making this vision a reality, and we anticipate continued success as we push the boundaries of what’s possible in crew transfer operations.

In a statement, the company described the first SES as a ‘game-changer for the offshore oil and gas industry’ through enhanced crew comfort and improved safety, reduced transit times, and lower environmental impacts. It also said that its collaboration with AES, Aircat, and ESNA has set a new standard for offshore crew transfer vessels and expects more successful projects in the future.