With traditional work such as rig tow or rig support slowing down, vessel owners have enthusiastically plunged into a new upcoming field where an increasing number of boats are suddenly needed - seismic support work. Saudi Aramco had earlier awarded two survey contracts worth USD 375 million to Argas, a CGGVeritas joint venture company, and the first contract commenced in June for 18 months, while the second will start in October for 24 months. The contracts respectively have 18 and 24-month optional extension periods. This translates to the requirement of eight support vessels, of which the Tidewater trio, consisting of the Mawford Tide, Bergeron Tide and Lecompte Tide, all 5,150 bhp AHTS, Topaz Marine's DMS Courageous 2,200 dwt PSV and Swire Pacific's Pacific Supporter 5,440 bhp AHTS, have started work on the term contract.
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