Astro Offshore strengthens subsea capability with ultra-deepwater vessel

The company, which is 80% owned by Adani Group, said the acquisition of the Salt 305 design vessel, which was built in 2021, is a significant step in the company’s expansion into ultra-deepwater operations and international markets.

The 97-m DP2 multipurpose support vessel/offshore construction vessel will be the largest vessel in Astro Offshore’s fleet. Built in 2021, Astro Atlas is equipped to support a range of offshore and subsea operations, including subsea construction, cable installation, and pipeline work.

The vessel has a 150-tonne subsea AHC crane, a 25-tonne secondary crane, integrated moonpool and accommodation for up to 100 people.

Astro Offshore chief executive Mark Humphreys said, “With our continued investment in modern, high-spec assets, introduction of Astro Atlas significantly enhances our operational capability.

“As our largest and most capable vessel to date, she enables us to support a broader range of complex offshore operations and respond more effectively to evolving client requirements.”

The vessel is capable of undertaking subsea operations in water depth of up to 3,000, a capability that enables Astro Offshore to enter the ultra-deepwater segment for the first time.

This capability opens access to more technically complex and higher-value offshore projects, supported by the vessel’s DP2 dynamic positioning system and robust design.

The company says Astro Atlas “also reflects a broader geographic expansion for the business,” with the vessel expected to operate in Europe. “This marks an important step in extending our operational footprint beyond the Middle East and strengthening our ability to deliver across multiple offshore markets,” it said.

Astro Atlas will be deployed under a long-term charter arrangement with Oceaneering International.

“Deployment of Astro Atlas under the charter with Oceaneering strengthens our ability to deliver high-spec subsea capabilities in more complex offshore environments,” Mr Humphreys concluded. “As we continue to grow our operational expertise, it allows us to better support the evolving requirements of our clients and the increasing demand for advanced subsea work.”