OSJ Asia Conference 2025: three takeaways for offshore leaders

More than 220 industry leaders convened in Singapore for the Offshore Support Journal Asia Conference 2025. This was a focused gathering where clear, candid insights into the offshore support vessel sector were shared without unnecessary jargon. For those who missed it, here are the three key takeaways.

A market rich in opportunity if you know where to look

Speakers painted a market both complex and promising. Top analysts highlighted sustained demand for 53M-60M new barrels daily by 2030, even as peak oil looms in 2035.

Offshore’s slice of investment is growing despite the energy transition. Yet vessel utilisation tells a nuanced story; while southeast Asia runs at 70%-80%, GCC markets are saturated. An ageing fleet poses risk, only 24% of vessels will be under 15 years old by 2028, but this also opens doors for fleet renewal and innovation. Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan and Australia each bring unique regional dynamics, from deepwater projects to offshore wind, regulatory shifts and workforce challenges.

Technology and sustainability are reshaping the industry

The technology sessions showcased rapid evolution. Wärtsilä’s hybrid battery systems promise 20% fuel savings today while preparing vessels for alternative fuels. Rolls-Royce pushes methanol engines and variable speed generators; Strategic Marine revealed surface effect vessels breaking 50-knot speeds with superior efficiency. New navigation tech from Sonodyne counters growing GPS vulnerabilities, critical in geopolitically sensitive waters. Workforce discussions underscored urgent talent and mental health challenges, but spotlighted proactive training, such as Singapore’s methanol fuel programmes. Sustainability is pragmatic: no quick fix but hybrids and operational efficiency are immediate, achievable wins.

Attendance delivered strategic intelligence and connection

Engagement was intense with more than 130 questions asked on day one alone. Attendees gained early insights on vessel shortages (ROVs, pipe layers, heavy lifts), evolving charter rates, newbuild strategies and decommissioning markets. Proprietary forecasts pointed to a challenging but manageable cycle: rate softness in 2025 but recovery ahead. This data and contacts equip professionals to optimise fleet deployment, financing and acquisitions, potentially saving millions in missteps.

Riviera continues its commitment to the offshore support vessel sector with a series of key events in 2025 and 2026. Highlights include conferences in Rio de Janeiro in October and Dubai in December 2025, followed by three London events in February 2026 covering offshore wind, subsea technology and the flagship Annual OSJ Conference. Each event offers vital market insights, networking opportunities and updates on technology, sustainability and emerging trends to keep you informed and competitive. For more information, please email ian.glen@rivieramm.com.