Dubai-listed shipowner Gulf Navigation is teaming up with Italy’s Scorpio Group to capitalise on ship management opportunities in the Middle East.
Joint venture company Black Marlin Ship Management & Operation has been set up in Dubai with the private affiliate Scorpio Services Holding.
Chemical tanker owner Gulf Navigation said the new operation will handle eight ships initially, four from each partner.
The idea is for the strategic partnership to leverage the capabilities and experience of both owners.
Scorpio’s US-listed unit Scorpio Tankers is one of the biggest product carrier companies in the world.
“Black Marlin will combine proven methods in ship management with best-in-class tools in data analytics, sustainability and regulatory compliance to drive superior commercial returns for vessel owners,” the companies said.
Ugo Romano, managing director of Scorpio in the Middle East and Africa, said the venture is “fully aligned with the future goals and vision we have for Scorpio Services Holding”.
“The seascape for technical management has never been so complex, given the need for energy efficiency, the dynamic expectations of regulators and end-users, and the imperative of assembling the right team of motivated professionals, both on board and ashore, who can drive results,” he added.
Romano praised the management team at Gulf Navigation for their “astute business practices and honourable ethical standards”.
Ahmad Kilani, chief executive of Gulf Navigation, said the cooperation will integrate the “superior resources and technical strength of the two sides”.
The deal also strengthens the technical management and intelligent quality-control system of ship operations, improves the efficiency of ship operations management and fills the gap in domestic high-end maritime services, he argued.
Gulf Navigation has five chemical tankers, plus a well-stimulation ship, four crew transfer vessels and a livestock carrier.
