News
Situation in Nigeria
Paris, 4 August 2008
BOURBON confirms that two of its officers, both of French nationality, attached to the Bourbon Apsara, were kidnapped following a land attack on Saturday 2nd August at about 9.30 p.m. local time, near the Nigeria oil industry hub of Port Harcourt in the Niger Delta.
BOURBON is working closely with the French Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and the local authorities (police, Special Security Service and the Government) to obtain their liberation.
The Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs wishes to emphasize that the utmost discretion is necessary in order to achieve a satisfactory outcome to this affair.
BOURBON will disclose any new information when available and verified.
The Abeilles International Salvage crew successfully carries out the assistance operation on the freighter Artemis
Paris, March 20th, 2008, Pdf version
© Atlantique French Navy
Abeilles International announces the success of the assistance operation conducted starting on March 10, 2008 after the freighter Artemis ran aground on the beach of Sables d’Olonne.
Backed by 25 years of experience in salvage and assistance, the Salvage Team of Les Abeilles International, a BOURBON subsidiary, successfully carried out this delicate operation in complete safety under extremely difficult conditions.
Thus, this afternoon at 3:45, under the Salvage Team’s intervention plan, involving the coordination at sea of the Abeille Languedoc and the Alcyon, these two vessels of the BOURBON fleet chartered by the French Navy to protect the French coastline, were able to get the freighter back into the water.
Christian Quillivic, Managing Director of Les Abeilles International, says, "
This salvage operation is the sixth one since the start of the year. It was carried out with all the seriousness and professionalism that are vital to success, and under optimum safety conditions, while respecting people, the environment and the equipment. This particularly delicate mission was carried out successfully thanks to the shared commitment of the crews of the Abeille Languedoc and the Alcyon, of our Salvage crew and the specialists whose support we have enlisted. We can be justly proud of a job well done at Sables d’Olonne."
High degree of responsiveness
As soon as the wreck of the Artemis occurred on March 10, 2008, at 7:45 a.m., the Maritime Prefecture called in the salvage tug, the Abeille Languedoc, which immediately reported to the site from the port of la Rochelle.
An assistance agreement was signed between the Artemis shipowner and Les Abeilles International; the salvage and assistance system was put in place and on that very evening, every part of the salvage system was on site and ready to act: i.e. the Salvage crew, vessels, materials and equipment from Le Havre. The Salvage Crew made permanent changes in the salvage plan, which in turn led to changes in the system, with, in particular, backup provided on site by the Alcyon, another vessel in the BOURBON fleet charted by the French Navy.
A Complex operation carried out under harsh weather conditions
After the initial analyses and surveys done on the day of the wreck, the decision was made to conduct an emergency refloating procedure focusing on the assistance opportunities possible under a wide range of weather and tidal conditions.
On the bank, "pools" were dug around the hull using onshore mechanical equipment in order to cut down on the friction and free the freighter from the sand.
On March 11 and 12, after 3 attempts to tow the freighter, in short intervals between each high tide, the crew was able to establish different riggings and to move the hull noticeably toward the sea, despite extremely harsh weather conditions – 8 force winds on the Beaufort scale, surges of 4 to 6 meters and waves crashing onto the beach.
On March 13, the 50 m3 of diesel in the freighter’s hold were pumped out, thereby preventing any risk of pollution. In addition, protective measures were approved to preserve the integrity and the safety of the vessel.
Given the unfavorable weather forecast for the coming days, the Salvage Master of the Abeilles International Salvage unit decided to respond as early as today at 3:45 p.m.
Facilitated by the deep and extensive sinking basin (nearly one hundred meters around the freighter), which was dug on the starboard side of the vessel so as to be able to rotate it, a maneuver was performed by the Abeille Languedoc in front (a pull capacity of 160 tons) and the Alcyon in back (a pull capacity of 65 tons), freeing the Artemis and refloating it under optimum conditions.
The Salvage crew inspected the freighter for integrity and water-tightness before allowing it to be towed by the Alcyon to the port of La Rochelle, under escort by the Abeille Languedoc, for redelivery to its shipowner.
Efficient crew and coordination
The initial Abeilles International Salvage Unit, which included 5 professionals under the leadership of Charles Claden, Senior Salvage Master of Les Abeilles International has been gradually beefed up so that it now includes nearly 15 experts, including a team specializing in refloating calculations belonging to Smit Salvage, a subcontractor with which Les Abeilles International customarily works.
In addition to maritime assistance, the Salvage Unit also coordinated the onshore teams and the different local response teams, such as the fire-fighters and line handlers of the Port of Sables d’Olonne, in full cooperation with the French Navy, as well as local and regional agencies.
"
We analyzed the situation on-site and responded with specialized personnel and substantial resources enabling us to work on the best possible safety conditions, in order to protect people and avoid any pollution. The towing was made possible by the combined pull capacity of 2 tugs used for refloating, which were crucial in the success of this operation,"
says Charles Claden, Senior Salvage Master of Les Abeilles International.
Bourbon Dolphin: Publication of the investigation report postponed till April 1st, 2008
Following the capsize of the Bourbon Dolphin on April 12th 2007, off the Shetland Islands, the findings of the Special Inquiry Commission, exceptionally named on May 4th 2007 by the Minister of Justice and Police to guarantee rigor and independence in the analysis of this accident, were originally set to be released on February 1st, 2008.
At the request of the judge in charge of the Special Inquiry Commission, the handover date of the investigation report was postponed to April 1st, 2008.
BOURBON will release any new information as soon as it is available and checked.
Bourbon Liberty, the technological excellence of deepwater offshore applied to continental offshore
To meet the dual challenge of growing oil and gas needs on one hand and of the offsetting declining production from existing fields on the other hand, deepwater and ultra-deepwater offshore should account for 40% of global oil and gas production growth in future years. In parallel, fields situated on the continental shelf are continuing to be developed, especially in Asia.
“The existing fleet of vessels in this market is old and requires maintenance more and more”
explains Gaël Bodenes, Deputy CEO of Bourbon Offshore. “In 2010, of the existing fleet of continental offshore vessels, 300 supply vessels will be over 30 years old and more than 700 will be between 20 and 30 years old, but the rapid replacement of this fleet is hampered by the bottleneck that we are now seeing in shipyards.
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Based on this analysis, BOURBON has anticipated and "taken the lead" in investing massively in new-generation vessels that are capable of operating in deepwater offshore rapidly replacing the old continental offshore fleet. A capacity for anticipation that has already borne fruit: by targeting the replacement market for old vessels, which is increasing by at least 16% per annum, BOURBON is now the only company in the market that is able to offer continental offshore clients the technological excellence of deepwater offshore.
An innovative and multi-purpose fleet, the result of experience in deep water offshore
Designed by GPA and tailored to BOURBON specifications, these vessels reap the benefit of BOURBON’s long experience in deepwater offshore and are a real ‘revolution’ on the continental offshore market.
In this new line, DP2 which equips all the vessels will be a major advantage. The systematic use of this technology, allied with the systems of propulsion, should enable operations under new procedures for anchor handling and transfer of supplies, ensuring better safety conditions. All the vessels will have a diesel-electric propulsion system, reducing fuel consumption by 20 - 30%, while offering better maneuverability thanks to integrated azimuth 360 ° - directional thrusters (Z-drive technology). The redundancy of the three generators and three thrusters, which makes it possible to operate on two generators and thrusters, is an additional safety feature. Finally, locating the engines on the main deck increases the cargo space available on the lower deck of the PSV; and the oval design of the mud tanks coupled with innovative technologies, enables the loading of liquid mud (640 m3) to be optimized and the transfer operations speeded up.
Mass construction of these vessels from a competitively priced Chinese shipyard is another significant advantage on a market in which cost control is a decisive factor for success. Firstly, it will enable substantial savings (15- 30%) on capital expenditure per vessel. The standardization of the fleet will also help control cost and customer service quality in three ways:
- maintenance: by reducing stocks of spare parts and optimizing the repair time and therefore the availability of the vessels;
- interchange of vessels: offering a standard substitution during time in dry dock or periodic maintenance when the vessel is immobilized;
- interchange of crews and sharing of best practice: standardized training thanks in particular to the use of simulation tools especially adapted to the model of vessels built in series according to BOURBON specifications.
The constitution of a homogenous fleet will thus help us provide a better service to clients while improving productivity and safety. It will also help implement local partnerships.
Sinopacific: a shipyard partner which proved reliable
«The success of this model lies in the mutual experience developed with the Sinopacific yards, which have already delivered 20 offshore vessels to BOURBON. Mass construction ensures ongoing improvement in the quality of the vessels.
» explains Christian Lefèvre, BOURBON Chief Operating Officer. «These vessels, which offer exceptional maneuverability and ability to hold at a fixed point, have completely satisfied our customers’ expectations.
»
It is thus with great confidence that the BOURBON teams deployed for the newbuilding follow-up work with the Sinopacific teams of the 2 sites of Dayang and Zhejiang.
The Bourbon Liberty 107 and 108, currently in construction at Sinopacific, on the shipyard of Dayang
Increasing insecurity on the Bonny river in Nigeria
Following the armed attack yesterday 9th January 2008 at 4.15pm on a convoy of ships on the Bonny River in Nigeria, BOURBON, and some oil operators have decided to suspend all activity in this area until further notice.
During this incident, 2 members of the Bourbon Leda crew, an FSIV chartered by Shell and operated by Bourbon Interoil Nigeria Ltd, were wounded. There is no fear for their lives.
They were taken into care 45 minutes after the attack by Nigeria LNG’s company hospital. Nigeria LNG had authorized access to its secure zone.
Due to this spiralling insecurity, upgraded security procedures were immediately implemented, in conformity with the Safety Management System of BOURBON and the charterer. The safety cell at Bourbon Interoil Nigeria Ltd, together with Bourbon Offshore Corporate management in Marseilles, are monitoring the situation on a minute-by-minute basis.
BOURBON ships temporarily immobilized in the secured ports continue everyday operations alongside.
This decision to suspend transit in the Bonny River does not affect the offshore oil zones in which BOURBON and others continue to operate normally.
New information will be released as relevant facts are available.
Bourbon Dolphin: update on the ongoing Public Hearings Process
Following the capsize of the Bourbon Dolphin on April 12th 2007, off the Shetland Islands, BOURBON is still committed to communicate on progress made in the ongoing investigations.
In order not to disturb the ongoing procedure until the Commission has submitted its conclusions, BOURBON will only divulge official elements of the inquiry, in line with the Group’s inherent duty to preserve confidentiality.
On April 25th 2007, the Norwegian Maritime Directory opened a maritime inquiry in Ålesund that aims to determine the circumstances of the Bourbon Dolphin capsize.
On May 4th, the Minister of Justice and Police exceptionally named a Special Inquiry Commission to guarantee rigor and independence in the analysis of this accident.
So far, the Special Inquiry Commission has held several public hearings, with its official scripts now available in English*:
Public Hearings of August 7, in Oslo
Oslo, four persons of Bourbon Offshore Norway
- Frank Reiersen
- Hugo Hansen
- Geir Tore Syversen
- Morten Reite
Download Public Hearings of August 7, in Oslo, pdf file
Public Hearings of August 20, in Oslo
One person from Det Norske Veritas (DNV) Foundation
- Richard Taylor
Download Public Hearings of August 20, in Oslo, pdf file
Public Hearings of August 21, Oslo
Four persons of Gulf Offshore
- John Hugh Dunlop, Chief Deck Officer on the “Highland Valour”
- Gordon Keith Williams, Captain of the “Highland Valour”
- Richard Stuart Ogley, Chief Engineer
- Sean Mark Alexander Dickson, Second Officer on the “Highland Valour”
Download Public Hearings of August 21, in Oslo, pdf file
Public Hearings of September 25 to 27, Oslo
Five persons of Trident
- Sean Johnson
- John Sapsford
- Ross Watson
- Martin Troup
- Martin Kobiela
Download Trident Public Hearings of September 25 to 27, in Oslo, pdf file
Four persons of Transocean
- Adrian Brown
- Ronald Mathieson
- Patrick O’Malley
- James Sutherland
Download Transocean Public Hearings of September 25 to 27, in Oslo, pdf file
Two persons of Chevron
- Dick Macklin
- Peter Lee
Download Chevron Public Hearings of September 25 to 27, in Oslo, pdf file
Public Hearings of October 24, Oslo*
Three persons of Ulstein Verft:
- Harald Møller (instead of Roar Riise)
- Tor Kåre Hareide
- Per Gullik Strand
Three persons of the Norwegian Maritime Directorate
- Ole Morten Fureli
- Frøydis Gaarder
- Jon Nerem
Download Public Hearings of October 24 in Oslo, pdf file
BOURBON will continue to disclose any new information when available and verified about the accident, whether it concerns new Public Hearings or the conclusions that the Commission would submit at the latest by February 1st 2008.
*To date, public hearings of October 24 are only available in Norwegian. The translation in English will be released on BOURBON website when it is officially published.
Inauguration of the "BOURBON Training Center" in Marseilles
First AHTS (Anchor Handling Tug Supply vessel) simulator installed in France
On November 22, 2007, BOURBON will inaugurate the first BOURBON Training Center in France in the city of Marseilles.
This training center is designed to provide seamen with the theoretical knowledge and practical training in anchor handling operations. The center includes a fully equipped bridge, the deck portion of the vessel and the classrooms needed for theoretical courses and debriefing.
Deck simulatorThis simulator, which was developed by Offshore Simulator Center (OSC) in Norway, is an integral component of the BOURBON internal training policy. It will train crews in anchor handling operations under real conditions to ensure acquisition of the skills required for both new employees and those already working on vessels. The objective is to ensure that everyone masters and practices the BOURBON operating standards and its safety rules.
This center to be christened the "BOURBON Training Center" will be located in the premises of the National Merchant Navy School (ENMM) in Marseilles. It is the natural culmination of the strong partnership established for many years between BOURBON and the 4 Merchant Navy Schools, including the one in Marseilles. BOURBON is in fact the leading employer of the student officers graduating from the French Merchant Navy Schools.
In line with the objectives defined in its Horizon 2010 strategic plan, training is a priority for BOURBON to handle the substantial growth in its fleet of new generation innovative and high-productivity vessels. In order to recruit 4,000 employees by 2010, BOURBON is implementing a series of tools and resources to integrate its newcomers, increase their awareness of the BOURBON culture, and guarantee that they have adopted the company’s high standards for operations, quality and safety worldwide. This training center will also allow to reinforce the continuing education programs for existing crews.
Jacques de Chateauvieux, BOURBON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer states:
"BOURBON must meet an unprecedented recruit challenge by 2010. We have largely anticipated this trend in recent years, and this BOURBON Training Center in Marseilles, which includes this extraordinary AHTS simulator, is just the latest concrete example. It will give both our oldest and newest employees quality training, in complete safety, under real conditions, so that they are imbued every day with the high operational, quality and safety standards and the values which determine and will determine the success of BOURBON.
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Daniel Louédec, Director of the Marseilles ENMM, says:
"The setting up of BOURBON Training Center within our school marks an important step in the development of marine services and the related training needs.
The development of this training center specifically dedicated to anchor handling operations will teach the quality procedures and standards that will contribute to the safety of the seamen who work in a demanding environment.
In addition, this partnership between BOURBON and the ENMM is clearly a strong signal for the profession, because it allows to benefit from the best resources of each partner in order to offer the best training possible and continue to adapt it.
Finally, this center strengthens the "oil and gas offshore" expertise in Marseilles, along with the National Institute of Professional Diving (INPP) and the COMEX."
Visit Marseilles’ virtual BOURBON Training Center
Paris, November 22nd 2007 press release in pdf file
BOURBON Training Center Marseilles Press Kit in pdf file
BOURBON announces order for 2 Multi Purpose Supply Vessels from Socarenam, the French shipyard in Boulogne-sur-Mer
Following a European bid tender, BOURBON is announcing its order for two high-tech Multi Purpose Supply Vessels (MPSV) from Socarenam, the French shipyard based in Boulogne-sur-Mer.
The design of these vessels is based on a concept established by Marine Assistance, and will be developed by the consultant firm Bureau Mauric. The experience of these two French companies in the concept of work vessels, has enabled them to come up with a vessel design adapted to the requirements of BOURBON’s customers.
Christian Lefèvre, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of BOURBON explains: "This order for two high-tech Multi Purpose Supply Vessels from a recognized French shipyard reflects our desire to offer our customers high-performance multi-purpose vessels combined with an excellent cost/delivery deadline ratio in line with our Horizon 2010 strategic plan. This contract is proof that French and European naval shipyards can be competitive and offer a solid performance. The choice of the Socarenam shipyard also reflects our desire to make investments and remain a major socio-economic player in France. BOURBON is pleased to be able to build vessels at controlled costs in France."
The two MPSVs built by Socarenam will be used to provide support in specific, demanding offshore operations, such as the maintenance of oil facilities or production maintenance work and subsea inspections.
They can house 103 persons under excellent conditions of comfort and safety.
Like all the new vessels in the Offshore fleet, the design of these MPSVs meets the BOURBON standards. They are equipped with diesel-electric propulsion and a redondant dynamic positioning system (Class 2).
Moreover, the vessels have 8 anchors (compared with 4 normally found on this type of vessel) which, combined with the Dynamic Positioning technology, offer greater flexibility in operational positioning.
Finally, these vessels have been designed with low draught to allow increased accessibility in shallow zones such as estuaries or rivers.
This order has been placed as part of the Horizon 2010 plan intended to expand the fleet of offshore oil and gas marine service vessels. The two vessels will be delivered in the second half of 2009.
October 25th 2007 press release
More
- Socarenam website: www.socarenam.com
- Marine Assistance website: www.marineassistance.com
- Bureau Mauric website: www.mauric.com
Opening of a BOURBON Training Center in Manila: approved training center for operators in Dynamic Positioning system in Philippines
In order to answer the ambitious development objectives of the BOURBON Horizon 2010 strategy as it relates to Human Resources, and more precisely training, BOURBON reinforces its international training policy with the opening of a new Dynamic Positioning1 training center in September.
All BOURBON new generation vessels for offshore services, except passenger vessels, are DP2 classified to answer the high requirements for reliable and safe operations. This equipment standard for BOURBON vessels requires that all the bridge Officers from now on be certified in Dynamic Positioning.
The opening of this BOURBON Training Center will make it possible for BOURBON to guarantee the quality of its training program in the Asia zone which is under strong development.
The training center of Manila is certified by the Nautical Institute of London, the only recognized authority for the certification of DP centers. The training program in dynamic positioning alternates between phases of theoretical instruction and practice on a simulator. The 3D simulator gives a very realistic experience to the trainee, whom must be thereafter be validated by periods of navigation on board vessels in DP operation.
Four operators stations equipped with the simulation software, “BEIER ICVS 2000 DP software system”, and two instructors, themselves certified DP operators, will train more than 150 trainees per year. Mainly open to BOURBON seamen to contribute to its ambitious recruitment program in the offshore maritime services, the center will be able to accommodate Officers of other maritime companies.
The opening of the BOURBON Training Center in Manila contributes to the standardization of training for all BOURBON seamen around the world; this in the context of a standardized fleet vessels built in series. This standardization guarantees customers greater efficiency, increased safety, and identical service quality throughout the world.
BOURBON initiated the first training center for Dynamic Positioning in 2004. This center is accessible to all shipbuilders and seamen, in partnership with the Merchant Marine school of Marseilles.
1 The "DP" dynamic positioning system keeps a vessel perfectly positioned in relationship to a fixed point and/or accurately ensures a course and a relative position on the surface to another mobile object.
A trainee on a dynamic positioning simulation station
Instructors of the BOURBON Center Training of Manila: Edward De La Cueva and Homer Gloria, both DP certified operators
Model of Bourbon Orca at London Science Museum
The revolutionary vessel Bourbon Orca, pilot of the most outstanding evolution in ship design in recent years, is displayed since the beginning of this September in the gallery of one of the world’s leading museums for innovation, science and technology.
Model of Bourbon Orca - Scale 1:75With much interest in a model of an ULSTEIN X-BOW® to update the shipping gallery, the conservation manager of the Science Museum, Jannicke K. Langfeld, contacted the Ulstein group, manufacturer and designer of these next generation ships, last February.
“We are interested by this type of vessel because this is a new design that is more seaworthy and energy efficient than earlier designs, and because it is the first new major alteration in ship designs for a long time span”.
A result of the co-operation between Bourbon Offshore Norway, Ulstein Verft and ODIM, the Bourbon Orca was the first vessel built with the ULSTEIN X-BOW inverted bow design and the first to prove the significance of the innovation.
All three companies shared the costs in building the model to offer it to the Science Museum of London, which has the world’s largest collections in the fields of science, technology, industry and medicine. More than 2,4 million visitors each year will be able to admire the Bourbon Orca, one of the new attractions of the permanent exhibitions in the middle of more than 300.000 objects, instruments or innovative machines of the science of their time.
For further information
- Bourbon Orca: www.bourbon-online.com/Bourbon-Orca,459
- Bourbon Offshore Norway Website: www.bourbon-offshore.no
- Ulstein Website: www.ulsteingroup.com
- Odim Website : www.odim.no
Bourbon Offshore Greenmar : Focus on a fast-growing shipmanagement company
“Soon the Group will be taking a new vessel under its management every 12 days. With Bourbon Offshore Greenmar BOURBON has a new shipmanager.”
“In creating Bourbon Offshore Greenmar in 2004,” explains Marc Remondière, its Managing Director, “BOURBON’s objective was to support the rapid growth of its fleet, by operating part of it under an international flag in order to be able to call on the resources of officers abroad and free up the resources of French officers for other vessels. In 2005, we obtained the DOC (Document of Compliance) of the ISM Code which enables us to be a ship operator and we took management control of our first vessel, the Kiesse, belonging to Sonasurf and operating in Angola for Total.”
11 vessels and over 300 seamen
“To date we manage 11 vessels and over 300 seamen under contract—mostly officers, as the majority of subsidiaries employ seamen in the country in which the vessel is based. In addition to the permanently managed fleet, we also take charge of some vessels directly from the shipyards to the port where the company due to operate them is based. This was the case for Bourbon Artemis in 2006 and Xicalango in 2007, which we sailed respectively from Singapore and China to Mexico for the subsidiary Naviera Bourbon Tamaulipas. Also we are frequently asked to recruit officers for vessels that are managed by other subsidiaries.”
An operational tool serving offshore activities
The BOURBON fleet is growing ever faster. “Soon the Group will be taking a new vessel under its management every 12 days,” declares Marc Remondière. With Bourbon Offshore Greenmar BOURBON has a new shipmanager. Many companies have their vessels managed by external service providers but BOURBON has chosen to create a subsidiary dedicated to this purpose. This enables it to control the management of vessels using its own crews who are trained to BOURBON operational standards and attached to the company, while benefiting from the flexibility the Group needs to back its growth. As vessels under an international flag can be equipped with crews of any nationality, recruitment is much easier in a context of a general shortage of merchant navy officers.
Modern and flexible management
Bourbon Offshore Greenmar employs a team of 14 experienced staff who have proven expertise in the management of vessels and crews. It has access to a global resources database and enjoys an excellent reputation, enabling it to attract highly qualified officers. “Our great strength is our flexibility which enables us to provide rapid solutions,” explains Marc Remondière.
“We work closely with the Human Resources departments of all the subsidiaries. I’m a member of the Offshore Division’s HR Committee and we are working together to prepare the fitting out of the BOURBON fleet worldwide, to 2010 and beyond.”
“With Bourbon Offshore Greenmar BOURBON has a new shipmanager”
Marc Remondière, General Manager Bourbon Offshore Greenmar
Bourbon Gulf: First Steps in Saudi Arabia
In June 2006, the subsidiary Bourbon Gulf was created in the Persian Gulf, at Doha in Qatar, in a joint venture with Qatari ENSRV. Through this subsidiary, the company is now developing its activity in Saudi Arabia, where a contract was signed in January 2007 with the Saudi company Al Zamil. “Saudi ship-owner Al Zamil had the largest fleet of supply vessels of Saudi Arabia, but he did not have enough vessels to meet the very strong demand of the state operator, Saudi Aramco,” explains Julien Bailly, Marketing Manager of Bourbon Gulf, in charge of development.
“BOURBON, which had anticipated the demand in launching the construction of an initial series of vessels in China three years ago, had units available, with the last two vessels of the series. This 3-year contract involves the commitment of 2 AHTS of 75 tons of bollard pull, with DP1 dynamic positioning, 5,400 hp and a deck space of 420sq. m, the Bourbon Gulf 101 and Bourbon Gulf 102. These vessels, which were built at the Dayang shipyard, were delivered last June 17th and July 4th in Saudi Arabia. Within the framework of this contract, Al Zamil supplies local logistics."
Julien Bailly, Marketing Manager of Bourbon Gulf, in Charge of Development
Halt of Athena due to damage in engine room. The Athena is a BOURBON Multi Purpose Supply Vessel
Marseilles, 27th June 6.30 p.m.
Due to poor weather conditions, pumping and water tightness operations on the Athena, which was towed and anchored yesterday evening to the outer roadstead of Pointe Noire in the Congo subsequent to water entry into the engine room, had to be stopped during the night. The ship is resting on a sandy bed at a depth of 10 metres and is listing over 50°. No lives are at risk.
Smit Salvage has been contracted to proceed with operations to rescue the vessel and to protect the site. Operations have already started. In conformity with BOURBON Safety Management procedures, the causes of the incident are under investigation and will allow the necessary conclusions to be drawn.
Halt of Athena due to damage in engine room. The Athena is an MPSV operating under contract for TOTAL E&P Congo.
Marseilles, 26th June, 7.30 pm
This morning at 5.25 am (Paris time) the Athena, a BOURBON fleet Multi Purpose Supply Vessel operating under contract with TOTAL E&P Congo, reported a technical incident provoking entry of water in the engine room.
It was 15 nautical miles off the coast of Congo, in transit between the oil fields of Likouala and East Tchibouela.
In conformity with BOURBON and TOTAL Safety Management procedures, emergency committees were put in place immediately, on site in Pointe Noire and in France.
To optimize operations the anchor was dropped to immobilize the ship and the engine compartments were cut off. The 63 people on board (26 crew members and 37 technicians) were immediately evacuated onto the TOTAL barge situated in the vicinity.
The Athena was then towed by Achille, a BOURBON fleet Anchor Handling Tug Supply Vessel also under contract with TOTAL E & P Congo, to the outer roadstead of Pointe Noire, where it is sheltering and safe since 07.00 p.m. Paris time.
All preventive measures have been taken and no pollution has been reported.
Pumping and water tightness of the hull are in progress before transferring the vessel to a shipyard for dry dock and repair.
Naviera Bourbon Tamaulipas
A very positive assessment of the first year of operations in Mexico
In February 2006, almost a year ago, BOURBON entered Mexico through the Naviera Bourbon Tamaulipas joint venture. One year later, the results are already highly satisfactory in a region that offers significant potential.
This subsidiary, formed with Mexican ship operator Naviera Tamaulipas, has a fleet of 6 vessels: 3 PSV contributed by our partner— the San Rafael, the Pionero and the Bahia De Campeche—and 3 vessels contributed by BOURBON—the FSIV Castor and Pollux and the AHTS Bourbon Artemis, soon to be joined by a seventh vessel, the Xicalango, a GPA 670. It also manages a fleet of five small, older vessels owned by our partner. All these vessels are operating for Pemex, the Mexican state-owned oil company and the only one operating in this zone. The transfer of technology on the FSIV was completed very quickly, and the Mexicans have today integrated the complex management of the Bourbon Artemis and the anchor handling operations.
The Bourbon Artemis, a 120-ton AHTS in the Naviera Bourbon Tamaulipas fleet
A profitable alliance for both parties
“This alliance satisfies both parties”
, stresses Jean-Paul Droniou, in charge of America/Middle East development within Bourbon Offshore. “Thanks to this alliance, Naviera Taulipas has doubled both the number of its vessels and its revenues. On our side, thanks to the dynamic performance of our partner, we have rapidly entered a difficult market which, until now, was the private turf of the Americans. While the BOURBON logo now appears on all the vessels of the fleet, it is very important for us, given the local environment, to be able to present ourselves commercially under the banner of Naviera Bourbon Tamaulipas.”
The same level of satisfaction exists on the Mexican side: “Our partnership with BOURBON has significantly expanded our horizon”, says Gerardo Sanchez, Managing Director of Naviera Bourbon Tamaulipas. “BOURBON is present in all offshore operations with high-tech vessels”
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“It is an opportunity for us to benefit from this experience. Our seamen are very proud of serving on these vessels. France is highly respected in Mexico, and we share cultural similarities. Our joint venture was perceived very positively in the country and by our customer Pemex. We are benefiting from the excellent image of BOURBON—a modern fleet and recognized rigor in safety issues.”
Gerardo Sanchez, Managing Director of Naviera Bourbon Tamaulipas
Shared optimism
This breakthrough can be full of promise if the market develops favorably. “The offshore Cantarell field is reaching the end of production”
, explained Gaël Bodenes, Assistant Deputy CEO of the Offshore Division. “Oil exports are down even if the country’s consumption rises. Mexico holds oil reserves in very deep waters, but the development of those fields requires enormous investments. The question is whether the country will invite foreign investors by changing the current laws, which right now do not allow production sharing agreements. If this happens, an amazing market will open for us in this country.”
This vision is shared by Gerardo Sanchez: “38% of the central government’s receipts come from oil. Today, no one knows what path will be taken, but one thing’s for sure—all the political players have an interest in developing the oil industry. Therefore, I am very optimistic about the future of Naviera Bourbon Tamaulipas.”
Bourbon Dolphin
April, 12th, 2007.
Tragic accident with the AHTS Bourbon Dolphin at 75 nautical miles west of Scotland’s northern Shetland islands.
Access all available information
BOURBON innovates, standardizes and intensifies its training policy for seamen
Development of two anchor handling simulators for modern offshore vessels
In line with the BOURBON Horizon 2010 strategic plan announced in February 2006, which provides for 1.2 billion euros in investments in its Offshore Division, BOURBON is in the process of doubling its workforce.
By recruiting over 4,000 seamen by 2010, half of whom will be officers, BOURBON will meet the very strong growth in the offshore market, for which 110 service vessels have already been ordered.
Apart from recruitment, BOURBON’s second big challenge is training.
In line with the BOURBON Horizon 2010 strategic plan announced in February 2006, which provides for 1.2 billion euros in investments in its Offshore Division, BOURBON is in the process of doubling its workforce. By recruiting over 4,000 seamen by 2010, half of whom will be officers, BOURBON will meet the very strong growth in the offshore market, for which 110 service vessels have already been ordered.
Apart from recruitment, BOURBON’s second big challenge is training.
Leading-edge technology to train crews using 2 anchor handling simulators
Technical training in near-real conditions
Two simulators developed by BOURBON in collaboration with the Offshore Simulator Center in Aalesund, Norway, one in France and the other in Singapore, will train captains, chief engineers and bridge officers in all maneuvers and exercises in almost-real conditions.
Thanks to the use of leading-edge products and processes, the recreation of a real bridge and realistic visual supports, this simulator can reproduce an almost real situation on both visual and sensorial levels. In partnership with the Aalesund University College, Offshore Simulator Center AS provides IT development and all display systems.
Relevant and realistic interactive simulation is the key to successful improvement and innovation. The simulator systems allow “full mission” training, where crew members on deck and operators may engage in the simulation in addition to the navigators and other bridge crew such as winch operators. Critical operations may be tried and investigated under safe conditions before they actually take place. The relevance of new ideas and technologies, and novel modes of operation, may be adequately explored.
Special BOURBON programs
BOURBON is using this technology and developing special training programs in anchor handling operations on tug supply vessels (AHTS).
These 2 simulators facilitate standardized training programs worldwide for all BOURBON crews in a context in which the fleet is increasingly standardized because of long series of identical vessels.
This standardization guarantees customers greater efficiency, increased safety, and identical service quality throughout the world.
"These simulators are a major innovation,"
stresses Thierry Buzulier, BOURBON Human Resources Manager. "They will allow our officers, after an initial training period at sea, to master onshore BOURBON operational standards, in addition to the safety training course. The Offshore training centers which will be based, among other components, on these 2 simulators, will very rapidly become essential, not only for new employees, but also with a view to the promotion of officers already in service."
A global training policy developed by BOURBON
As the leading recruiter of French merchant marine officers, and convinced that shipbuilders must be the drivers in modernizing marine training, BOURBON has made an innovative commitment to "public-private" partnerships, which are an exceptional vector to support and develop excellence in French training and its influence internationally.
Creation of 2 offshore training centers: Marseilles (France) and Singapore
After initiating in Marseilles, in 2004, in partnership with local and national institutions, the first training center for Dynamic Positioning1 accessible to all shipbuilders and seamen, BOURBON is intensifying its effort by creating the BOURBON-Hydro Offshore Oil Training Center.
This training center, dedicated to offshore oil and gas marine services, will be fully operational by the end of 2007 and will include, in addition to the existing programs (DP1, HL02, Safety, etc.), an anchor-handling operations simulator for AHTS specialized vessels.
In 2008, an identical system will be developed in Singapore. This center will give BOURBON a centralized and standard training policy in its recruitment and operational zones in Asia.
An international training policy based on a complete system
Three BOURBON “school-vessels" will accelerate training in the operating zones of West Africa, Asia and Latin America. Certified by the Nautical Institute of London, they will be true mobile training centers that give BOURBON maximum flexibility in meeting training needs in these high-growth zones.
In order to contribute to the development of its presence and reflect its values of professionalism, excellence and solidarity, BOURBON is also working to set up partnerships with local training centers, such as in Cameroon with the private GEPMARE marine training school supported by BOURBON.
Generally, in the zones in which BOURBON operates, a policy of recruitment and training adapted to the local context is studied, set up and put in place. In the absence of certified local structures, the training for Angolan officers is, for example, organized in the best schools in South Africa and Nigerian officers can receive training in dynamic positioning in Singapore.
"Our goal is to offer the most demanding customers, everywhere in the world, excellent services on a full range of new-generation vessels. To achieve this, and in line with the Horizon 2010 strategic plan, recruitment and training will comply with BOURBON highest standards of quality and excellence," said Christian Lefevre, BOURBON Chief Operating Officer and Deputy CEO of the Offshore Division. "Through its many international sites, BOURBON is developing a major recruitment program and active management of international careers. Our goal for training is to establish, for all seamen of the offshore service fleet, a BOURBON standard of excellence through an international unit for training in the operations of the offshore oil and gas businesses, which will become a benchmark in the industry."
- The "DP" dynamic positioning system keeps a vessel perfectly still in relationship to a fixed submerged point or accurately ensures a course and a relative position on the surface above a mobile element.
- Helicopter Landing Officer: training in landing helicopters on the vessels
BOURBON announces an order for 46 next generation vessels and reinforces its growth in modern offshore
In line with its strategy for leadership in modern offshore, BOURBON is expanding its fleet with next generation, innovative and high productivity vessels to assist its oil industry clients worldwide in developing their continental and deepwater offshore fields.
BOURBON is announcing today its new order of 3 series of modern offshore service vessels, 46 units for €560 million (USD730 million) from the Sinopacific shipyards in China (44 vessels) and West Atlantic Shipyard in Nigeria (2 vessels).
2 series based on the GPA design identical to the 36 vessels ordered by BOURBON in April 2006:
- 28 AHTS GPA 254 supply and anchor-handling tugs with 80 tons traction
- 14 PSV GPA 654 platform supply vessels with 1600 tons deadweight.
All the 78 new vessels are principally intended for the replacement market operating in the continental offshore in which more than 400 vessels now in service will be over 30 years old by 2010. The characteristics of the new vessels will also make them excellent additional supply vessels for deepwater offshore operations.
They are all equipped with diesel-electric propulsion, classes DP2 and FiFi1. Designed to optimize the carrying capacity of various products, they can each transport 640 m3 of liquid mud.
1 series of 4 PSV, Ulstein PX105 MACS supply vessels, 4400 tons deadweight, 88.8 m long, with the X-Bow™ and the PG-MACS™ system.
This new series is the culmination of the optimization of the design of the P105 and PX105 models, 4 of which are under construction for BOURBON, while 4 others have already proven their operational value in the BOURBON fleet since 2005.
Equipped with diesel electric propulsion, classes DP2 and FiFi1, and a double hull, this series is "clean design" certified and meets the highest standards of protection of the environment and comfort.
The series includes two major innovations: the positioning of engine exhaust on the water line, which does away with the funnel thus allowing a 360° panoramic view from the bridge, and above all the MACS™ (Multi Application Cargo Solution) system which increases storage capacity in the hold and enables different types of cargo to be stored.
These vessels therefore satisfy the precise needs of the international deepwater and North Sea offshore industry while offering extremely profitable technological solutions to customers.
With these additional 46 vessels, BOURBON’s Offshore Division has a total of 110 supply vessels on order as of 28th February 2007.
Deliveries will be made up to September 2011, when BOURBON will have the most up-to-date fleet on the market.
Christian Lefèvre, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of BOURBON, said:
"These orders are strategic because they will allow BOURBON to affirm its leading position in modern offshore with a multi-purpose fleet adapted for safety, maneuverability, environmental protection and productivity. The construction of these vessels in series is in line with a proven and profitable business model to reduce construction and maintenance costs. The success of this model is based on the high level of industrial know-how that BOURBON has already demonstrated. It is also based on the tested capability of China’s Sinopacific shipyards to produce quality vessels, which has been confirmed by the success of the 14 vessels already delivered and in operation and which give full satisfaction to our customers.
With these orders of 2 series of new vessels intended both for deepwater and continental offshore, and the PSV series dedicated to deepwater offshore, we will, with confidence, satisfy the needs of all our customers for modern vessels."
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More about next generation vessels... |
Under completely safe conditions Les Abeilles International carries out the delicate operation of pumping fuel oil from MV Rokia Delmas container vessel, which ran aground off the coast of the Island of Ré
Mobilizing all responders, night and day for more than a week prevented any hydrocarbon pollution from occurring during the delicate operation of pumping out 560 tons of fuel oil from M.V. Rokia Delmas, which ran aground on 24 October near the Island of Ré following engine failure.
As soon as the report was received of the wreck of the 185 meter container vessel originating from Vigo, Spain, and belonging to the company CMA-CGM, three BOURBON vessels chartered by the French National Navy – Abeille Languedoc, then Abeille Bourbon and finally Alcyon – were successively dispatched to the site to prevent any risk of pollution.
Les Abeilles International was quickly ordered by CMA-CGM, on behalf of Delmas, to take charge as project manager, under an assistance contract.
"Our job was to gather and coordinate all the expertise of the best salvage crews. Our objective is always the same: zero accidents, zero pollution. We analysed the situation on site and responded in the most appropriate manner to the constraints reported, by imposing drastic safety rules to protect people and the environment. Our 25 years of experience are essential in situations like this,"
says Charles Claden, Senior Salvage Master Les Abeilles International, Operations Manager and Captain of Abeille Bourbon.
Above and beyond the resources immediately provided by the Prefecture (Préfecture maritime de l’Atlantique), Les Abeilles International called on sub-contractors, including SMIT Salvage, with which it had already worked during sensitive salvages like Stamy in Dunkerque in 1985, Ming Fortune and Happy Fellow in 1995 and Capetan Tzannis in 1997.
When the responders first arrived, because of the container vessel’s position in shallow water, towing was out of the question. Once the site was secured by Alcyon, a Bourbon Offshore Surf anti-pollution vessel, which deployed a double anti-pollution floating boom, along with Abeille Bourbon, the forward holds were pumped out and all the fuel oil was recovered under extremely arduous conditions. The poor weather conditions and the large tidal ranges made it even harder to access the vessel. In particular the salvage crews had to work aboard a freighter listing 18° with a slippery deck, posing an ever-present danger.
Ten days of continuous assistance were to prove necessary to pump out all the fuel oil so as to prevent any pollution, with the utmost respect for the interests of the local communities and the charterer. The ability to analyse the situation, mastery of the solutions recommended and above all, coordinating the crews and the technical resources proved to be the critical factors in the success of this operation. Les Abeilles International Salvage Unit chartered and gathered together all the specialized personnel and the necessary resources to work under the best safety conditions and prevent any accidental pollution, i.e.:
- More than 10 vessels and barges dispatched to the site: tugs, crane barges, sheerlegs, tankers, pilot boats and personnel transfer boats, anti-pollution tanker, etc.
- More than 65 professionals mobilized: salvage teams, crews, divers, liaison officers, naval architects, engineers, chemists, etc.
- Underwater diving equipment, cutting, pumping and drying equipment, surface anti-pollution equipment, communications systems, analysis equipment, etc.
As Christian Quillivic, Managing Director Les Abeilles International, points out: "The expertise of our salvage crews, along with the technical nature of our exceptional vessels, with their innovative design and proven reliability, ensure the protection of the environment of the French coast on a daily basis. But the jobs that really put our expertise to the test, that call forth the full potential of each responder are the assistance and salvage operations. For the past 25 years, our tugs and their crews have been able to prevent a number of major catastrophes. Each and every time, including during the Rokia Delmas operation, the energy of all our responders was enlisted to focus on a common objective: preserving the environment."
The Salvage Unit is now working on removing forty cubic meters of light fuel (diesel) located in a double bottom under the engine, an operation requiring an even greater degree of technical expertise. Pending the unloading of the containers, scheduled for Tuesday, 7 November, the cargo will be secured to resist harsh tidal and weather conditions: repositioning of the mooring and installing a 1,000 meter tug on the stern of the vessel.
Bourbon Mistral and Bourbon Monsoon: the first two Clean Design PSV with a reversed stem
The first two Platform Supply Vessels (PSV) with a reversed stem (ULSTEIN X-BOWTM) and also the first two vessels of “Clean Design” standard to be contracted, Bourbon Mistral and Bourbon Monsoon, were named at Ulstein Yard on Saturday, October 28. Godmother for both vessels is BP Norway’s CEO Gro Kielland.
Bourbon Offshore Norway was first to order the first vessel with the ULSTEIN X-BOW™, the anchor handler Bourbon Orca. They are also first to receive PSVs with this bow. “Having had Bourbon Orca working for a period of time, we clearly see that the bow makes her superior compared to other anchor handling vessels. We have proven that a ship with the ULSTEIN X-BOW™ runs smoother, she can hold higher speed and therefore be the fastest to the destination, and she is also more comfortable for the crew. We believe there is even more to be gained from a PSV with this bow, as these types of vessels are continuously in traffic. They work in a shuttle system between shore and platforms and have to be reliable also in bad weather”
, says Bourbon Offshore Norway’s Managing Director Trond Myklebust.
The two vessels, ordered by Bourbon Offshore Norway, are on two long-term contracts for the oil company BP Norway. The vessels will primarily supply the oil fields operated by BP in the Norwegian part of the North Sea, and will be based in Sola harbour, Tananger, Norway.
Bourbon Monsoon will start on a 10 year contract, for delivery in the first quarter 2007.
Bourbon Mistral, which is starting on a 5 year contract straight after the naming ceremony, is delivered with two innovations.
ULSTEIN IASTM is an integrated automation system that controls and monitors all processes and operations aboard a vessel. It’s a user-friendly system that can be adapted to customer’s needs and that is redundant at several levels, improving safety. ULSTEIN IASTM monitors ongoing operations in the vessel and generates alarms in case of failures. The system can easily be linked to the second electrical innovation, the ULSTEIN Bridge Alarm System. The system collects audible alarms from all the systems on the bridge and also monitors human activity. Either a text display or a voice alarm module (optional) shows which system caused the alarm.
Bourbon Orca awarded "Ship of the Year 2006" at the SMM 2006 exhibition in Hamburg
Latest of the modern offshore oil and gas marine service vessels, the Bourbon Orca, with its "revolutionnary" design (Ulstein AX104) was awarded "Ship of the Year 2006" by the Norwegian trade journal Skipsrevyen at the SMM 2006 exhibition in Hamburg, the leading international trade fair in the sector of shipbuilding, machinery and marine technology. Mr Jacques de Chateauvieux received the award on behalf of the shipowning company, Ms Gunvor Ulstein on behalf of the shipbuilding company Ulstein Verft AS and Mr Tore Ulstein on behalf of Ulstein Design AS.
The Bourbon Orca offers three innovations: inverted bow, a new secure anchor handling system, and diesel-electric propulsion.
Bourbon Offshore Norway has achieved an amazing advance in innovation by participating in the development of an Ulstein AX104 anchor handling vessel, equipped with the new Ulstein X-Bow™ hull design from Ulstein Design AS.
BOURBON announces the commissioning of the Bourbon Orca, an advanced technology vessel for the modern offshore oil and gas sector
The Bourbon Orca (Ulstein AX104), an AHTS (Anchor Handling Tug Supply Vessel), the latest of the modern offshore oil and gas marine service vessels, was christened on Saturday, June 24, 2006 in Aalesund, Norway.
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15 crew boats already delivered to Nigeria
After the 1830, Bourbon Offshore Interoil Nigeria has just received a new Surfer, the 1831, built by the West Atlantic Shipyard in Port Harcourt (Nigeria), a subsidiary of the French shipyard Piriou.
The vessel has been registered with the Nigerian Maritime Authority, signaling the completion of the construction process. Kunle Areogun, sales manager for Bourbon Offshore Interoil Nigeria, notes that the Surfer 1831 “has a transport capacity of 25 persons, which makes it one of the lightest models in the Nigerian fleet. With this new model, we have a broader range of passenger transport services in the Nigerian ports, with capacities of 25, 40 and 60 persons”. This Surfer 1831 is the second vessel built out of the order for four vessels announced when the joint venture was formed in December 2004. It is being used by Chevron Texaco for a one-year mission.
The Bourbon Artemis to leave for Mexico
Two FSIVs are already operating between Tampico and Ciudad del Carmen in the Gulf of Mexico.
BOURBON orders 56 platform supply vessels for its offshore oil and gas services
In line with its leadership strategy in modern offshore, BOURBON is expanding its fleet with next-generation, innovative and high-productivity vessels to assist its oil and gas clients in the development of their deepwater and continental offshore operations.
On February 28, 2006, in the context of its Horizon 2010 plan, BOURBON announced investments of 1.45 billion euros, 85% (1.23 billion euros) of which will be devoted to the Offshore Division. Since January 1st, 2006, BOURBON has placed the first series of orders for 56 modern offshore oil and gas supply vessels, which represents a total USD 808 million (672 million euros). These 56 vessels are in addition to the 27 supply vessels already under construction at December 31, 2005.
BOURBON invests in US offshore oil marine services by making USD 9.1 million equity investment in Rigdon Marine
In line with its international development strategy, BOURBON has invested USD 9.1 million in the American group Rigdon Marine. This investment was made in compliance with American regulations, particularly the Jones Act, and this stake will be consolidated in the BOURBON accounts using the new US equity method.
[...]
BOURBON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jacques de Chateauvieux explained this strategic choice: " This stake in the Rigdon Marine group is the natural outcome of 4 years of collaboration. We have seen that this fast-growing company has rapidly become a profitable service provider, duly recognized in the offshore oil marine services sector, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico. Our commitment is a clear demonstration of BOURBON’s investment policy, designed to assemble the best skills and resources to successfully fulfill the customer needs for new generation vessels worldwide."
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Press release of january, 18th 2006
Bourbon Offshore Safety Meeting, Brest, 6-7-8 December 2005
Safety, a top priority for Bourbon!
BOURBON encourages a corporate culture guaranteeing the highest standards of safety and has committed, through a Quality, Health, Environment and Safety charter, to achieving its highly ambitious objectives, in the interests of its employees, its clients, its shareholders and the communities in which the company operates.
To ensure the proficiency level of employees and to support the motivation of all crews around the essential safety theme, more than 50 officers, Base Managers and Safety Managers of the different Bourbon Offshore subsidiaries participated in a three-day training course in the Safety Management system.
As safety is a priority for the company right across the board, both on land and aboard ship, this training scheme is designed for all Bourbon Offshore personnel. The next Bourbon Offshore training session is scheduled for February 2006.
Naming of the Abeille Liberté, an exceptional vessel in the service of maritime security
The Abeille Liberté, a vessel belonging to the Les Abeilles International company, a BOURBON subsidiary, and introduced to reinforce the maritime prefect’s protection arrangements by ensuring safety in the Channel and North Sea, was named on 17 November 2005.
The naming took place in the Cité de la Mer in Cherbourg, in the presence of its christener, Madame Annie Blanchet, widow of the bosun of the Abeille Languedoc who died on duty. The ceremony was jointly presided over by Rear Admiral Édouard Guillaud, the maritime prefect of the Channel and North Sea and Monsieur Christian Munier, the General Manager of BOURBON.
BOURBON are proud to have fitted out this new ship to succeed the prestigious Abeille Languedoc with the role of ensuring both ever better safety for men and property at sea and the protection of the environment.
The Abeille Liberté is a faster and more powerful salvage tug, able to respond better to the current requirements of the French Navy. It carries 2 crews of 12 sailors and officers with the benefit of experience acquired in particular on the Abeille Languedoc. Its design bears the signature of Sigmund Borgundvag, previously the designer of the Abeille Languedoc, Abeille Flandre and Abeille Bourbon.
The Abeille Liberté, the latest generation tug
The response assistance and salvage tug (RIAS) Abeille Liberté has just arrived in Cherbourg. It has been welcomed by the Abeille Languedoc, from which it will take over at the end of October 2005. Rear Admiral Edouard Guillaud, maritime Prefect of the Channel and the North Sea, Bourbon Execution Vice President Christian Munier, and Les Abeilles International Managing Director Christian Quillivic have greeted its arrival.
The Abeille Liberté will be christened on November 17 and will reinforce the marine safety plan set up by the French government in the Channel and the North Sea.
The Abeille Bourbon, a triumphant arrival in Brest !
The latest rescue tug to be chartered by the French Navy, the Abeille Bourbon, was welcomed off the coast of Brittany by her predecessor, the Abeille Flandre, for an escort at sea before her triumphant arrival for the official christening ceremony to the stirring sound of Breton bagpipes.
On April 13th, in the presence of some 1000 selected guests and accompanied by Admiral Mérer, France’s Maritime Prefect for the Atlantic seaboard, and Groupe Bourbon chairman Jacques de Chateauvieux, the prestigious christener, Madame Jacques Chirac, admired the new vessel as "magnificent" before paying tribute to the "courage, generosity and abnegation of all those who are called to action at sea".
Gaia, a new specialist in the Offshore Division
The company Gaia has been a member of the Offshore Division for over a year now, adding to the range of services BOURBON offers to its clients, the major oil companies.
With a decade of experience already behind it, Gaia provides engineering services and expertise such as development studies for offshore fields, on-site surveys, specifications for underwater equipment, installation engineering, definition of work procedures, design and supply of job-specific equipment or supervision and performance of offshore installation work…
Partnership with the Merchant Naval Officer Training Colleges
Through these different partnerships, in both professional and social contexts, the trainees and instructors from the Merchant Navy Training Colleges discover not only BOURBON’s different professions within its Marine Services division but also the skills and values which attract an ever-increasing number of young graduate officers to join our ranks.
Bourbon Topaz : our 4th Norwegian vessel delivered in 18 months
The Bourbon Topaz is an advanced-technology vessel with an immense carrying capacity. Approved for transport of methanol and special chemical products, she is also equipped with a surface pollution recovery system. The Bourbon Topaz is more especially the first ship built to the new NAUT OSV standards, a classification reflected in the greatly improved layout of her bridge.