Denmark's Maersk Supply Service is muscling in on the Norwegian offshore vessel market.
The AP Moller-Maersk-owned company said it is reflagging one of its energy-efficient M-class anchor handling tug supply (AHTS) vessels to the Norwegian flag.
The shipowner will also hire Norwegian crew and set up an office in Bergen.
The plan is to have its first vessel ready for operation in Norwegian waters during this summer.
The move is likely to leave rivals unimpressed, given the general market view that fewer vessels, not more, are needed in the North Sea to combat a prolonged period of weak rates.
But Maersk Supply said: "With a strong focus on the towing and installation of floating units for offshore wind and the oil and gas industry, Maersk Supply Service sees a clear link between its core capabilities and the Norwegian market needs."
The owner added that the ambition to decarbonise its fleet matches that of key players in Norway.
"Norway is a frontrunner when it comes to exploring new ways of lowering the environmental footprint of the offshore energy industry," Duncan MacPherson, Maersk Supply's new managing director for Norway, said.
"Our anchor-handlers are some of the most modern and energy-efficient vessels in the world. Therefore, we are confident that they are a suitable fit for the Norwegian market."
MacPherson has more than 20 years of experience in the energy industry and has been based in Norway for the majority of that time.
He has managed businesses engaged with marine services and project solutions in oil and gas and offshore renewables markets globally, including Vinstra and Telford Offshore.
More vessels to come
"“Our goal is to have several vessels operating in Norway — both in the oil and gas industry and floating wind," MacPherson said.
Maersk Supply has been operating the North Sea for more than five decades.
It has previously operated in Norway. The new base will give it a presence in 11 countries, including the UK, Angola, Australia, Brazil, Canada and Mexico.
Rig moves in Norway are paying NOK 100,000 ($12,000) per day, according to Norwegian broker Westshore.
Broker lists show 14 operational AHTS units in the market, owned by players such as K Line, Solstad Offshore, Siem Offshore and DOF Group.
Three are currently charter free.
However, a total of 34 units remain laid up in North Sea ports.
