Maritime news . Week 54
Seismic Vessel Returns to Work
TGS is launching a new campaign for the seismic vessel Ramform Vanguard after its winter stack period. Operations will start in March 2026 with an oil and gas site survey followed by two offshore wind contracts. The programme is expected to run through the third quarter of 2026. The company will deploy its Ultra High Resolution 3D streamer technology for its first oil and gas site survey. The move aims to improve vessel utilisation and diversify work between oil and offshore wind sectors.
https://splash247.com/tgs-lines-up-offshore-wind-and-oil-and-gas-surveys/
US Moves to Ease Offshore Rules
The Trump administration plans to roll back a 2024 rule requiring oil and gas firms to provide $6.9bn in financial assurances for offshore platform decommissioning. Officials say the change could save the industry about $484m annually in compliance costs. The move is intended to free capital for exploration and production on the US Outer Continental Shelf. The proposal will be opened for a 60-day public comment period. Independent offshore producers have welcomed the plan.
https://splash247.com/trump-administration-targets-rollback-of-offshore-decom-rule/
Seafarers Can Refuse Hormuz Transit
Seafarers can now refuse to sail through the Strait of Hormuz after the threat level was raised to the highest level. Since late February, at least nine ships have been attacked and one seafarer killed. Around 300 vessels are currently waiting on both sides of the strait, a key global oil shipping route. Under IBF agreements, seafarers who refuse the transit are entitled to company-paid repatriation and two months’ basic wages. Crews operating in the area will also receive higher pay and double compensation in case of death or injury.
Greek Seafarers Launch Strike
Greek seafarers launched a 24-hour nationwide strike, halting ferry services. Unions demand the Persian Gulf be declared a war-risk zone and crews evacuated from the region. Around 325 vessels linked to Greek interests are currently operating in Gulf waters. International bodies estimate about 20,000 seafarers are working in the high-risk area. At least nine ships have already been damaged since the conflict escalated.