A five-year programme has resulted in 14 lean-crewed offshore support vessels to be constructed, with 12 already in operation
Ocean Infinity has completed constructing its Armada fleet of offshore support vessels, which minimise the number of crew members required, after receiving the final delivery from the shipyard.
These semi-autonomous vessels are monitored and remotely controlled from Ocean Infinity’s onshore control centres.
Of the 14 vessels in the Armada fleet, 12 are now delivering safer and more sustainable offshore surveys and two are being outfitted and commissioned.
The latest delivery completed the 86-m class Armada vessel fleet.
Technology on these vessels is reducing the number of people working offshore and cutting fuel consumption and emissions, while creating more efficient ways of working.
They feature underwater robotic systems, such as remotely operated vehicles, and multiple sensors enabling a wide range of data collection tasks, including geophysical and hydrographic surveys, geotechnical sampling, subsea asset inspections, search and rescue, and environmental inspections to support complex offshore projects globally.
"Completing the Armada 86-m class marks an extraordinary moment,” said Ocean Infinity chief executive Oliver Plunkett.
“Five years ago, we said we would build a fleet of 14 ships, designed unconventionally because speed to capability mattered, and we have done it, despite the many challenges along the way.”
These vessels were not just a concept or a research and development project, but a bold ambition by the UK-based company.
“They are operating today, transforming the way offshore work is done by focusing on software and technology first,” said Mr Plunket.
Ocean Infinity uses software, robotics and artificial intelligence to gather and analyse operational and survey data.
It can remotely operate or improve situational awareness for crew on these vessels in real time from its command centres using advanced satellite communications.
Riviera’s Annual Offshore Support Journal Conference, Awards & Exhibition 2026 will be held in London on 3-4 February 2026. Use this link for more information and to register for the event.
Events
© 2024 Riviera Maritime Media Ltd.