Astro Offshore continues growth spurt, acquires ex-POSH MPSV

Dubai-based Astro Offshore has now doubled the size of its fleet, following the addition of 11-year-old DP2-class multi-purpose support vessel (MPSV) Astro Achernar.

Built in 2014, the MPSV is the former POSH Endurance, with an overall length of 88 m, beam of 20 m, with a 100-tonne capacity offshore crane and accommodation for 222, including 46 crew. The diesel-electric vessel, which is under ABS class, was originally built by PaxOcean Engineering. AIS data shows Astro Achernar in the Arabian Gulf.

The acquisition of Astro Achernar by Astro Offshore, part of the Adani Group, follows in the wake of the purchase of five DP2-class OSVs in September. In that transaction, Astro Offshore acquired four platform supply vessels, two of which are diesel-electric, and one high-spec, 86-m diesel-electric multi-purpose supply diving support vessel equipped with a 160-tonne crane.

The acquisition of Astro Achernar raises the number of DP2-class vessels in Astro Offshore’s fleet to 16, six of which are diesel-electric propelled.

By adding more advanced OSVs with greater capacity, Astro Offshore said it has been able to reinforce its position in West Africa. “Astro Offshore is better positioned to support long-term operations and deliver tailored, reliable solutions to both regional and international clients,” said the owner.