Atlantic Offshore to Convert Multipurpose Standby Vessel ‘Ocean Response’

Ocean Response. Photo: Atlantic Offshore

Norwegian shipowner Atlantic Offshore has decided to convert its AHTS Ocean Response to a dedicated oil recovery and oil spill response vessel.

With the conversion Ocean Response will be compliant with NOFO 2009 regulations for oil recovery vessels on the Norwegian Continental Shelf.

The Ocean Response was built in 2013 by Bergen Group as a “next generation” multi-purpose standby vessel designed by Wärtsilä Ship Design. Upon delivery it immediately commenced a 10-year charter with Statoil working in the North Sea.

Atlantic Offshore said the decision was made together with Statoil, and the conversion will offer more flexibility to serve as an emergency and response vessel.

The modification will be done at the Hellesøy Verft located on Norway’s Hardanger Fjord.

The 120-ton bollard pull Ocean Response measures 75 meters long was originally built for fire emergency (Fi-Fi I and II), first responder oil spill response, and platform evacuation space for up to 370 people.

Earlier this year Atlantic Offshore agreed to sell a majority stake of its operations in order to secure its continued operation amid the weak offshore market.

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