Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has received the second of four-twin screw Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) type, mooring work and oil recovery boats from Dubai-based shipbuilding and repair specialist Grandweld, a GMMOS Group company, in a deal worth US $15.1 million signed last year.
“Our delivery of the four Lloyds Register of Shipping-classified vessels is a major milestone for Grandweld as it combines our ability to provide timely and efficient marine solutions of international quality standards and design to world class, highly regarded oil and gas companies such as ADNOC,” said Jamal Abki, General Manager of Grandweld.
The vessels, each measuring 20 m and capable of reaching speeds of up to 11.2 knots are specifically designed for ADNOC to be operated by Abu Dhabi Petroleum Ports Operating Company (IRSHAD) at the Single Buoy Mooring (SBM) terminals of Abu Dhabi Petroleum Ports.
“Grandweld had the opportunity to build state of the art highly manoeuvrable tugs with advanced features like oil recovery equipment and auto pilot in both ahead and astern operation (first time installed on any vessel). This will be a stepping-stone to build more sophisticated vessels for the requirements world wide,” said Abki.
“Grandweld’s growing reputation as a leading shipbuilding and repair specialist attracts many international, regional and local ship owners to our Al Jadaf yard which makes our 2008 planned move to Dubai Maritime City a necessity in keeping with the company’s rapid expansion,” he added.
It took Grandweld less than 14 months to complete construction and hand over of the first two boats. The remaining two are scheduled for delivery to ADNOC before the end of the year.
