French maritime operator Bourbon has concluded a five-year charter agreement with ExxonMobil to provide personnel transport between the city of Soyo in Angola and Block 15, located approximately 130 kilometres offshore. This partnership strengthens a long-standing commercial relationship between the two groups in Angola’s offshore oil sector.
Custom-built vessels for offshore operations
As part of the deal, Bourbon will deploy a new 34-metre Crewboat model designed to meet the client’s specific operational requirements. These vessels will replace the 32-metre units currently in service and offer increased transfer capacity along with enhanced technical reliability.
Designed by naval engineering firm MAURIC, based in Marseille, the vessels are scheduled for delivery to Angola from 2027. The design features significantly improved performance, with a cruising speed of up to 38 knots and a fuel consumption reduction estimated between 10 and 15% compared to the previous generation.
Enhanced technical performance and passenger comfort
Each vessel will be equipped with 60 passenger seats featuring individual USB ports and upgraded seat design for improved comfort. A forward deck space of 18 m² will allow for the transport of small parcels, optimising onboard logistics.
The navigation bridge has been redesigned to offer better visibility and improved ergonomics suited for extended offshore missions. The vessels will also be fitted with a real-time Energy Fuel Monitoring System (EFMS), installed during construction.
Fleet expansion on Block 15
The new Crewboats will join an existing fleet of five Surfer vessels already operating on Block 15. They will support ExxonMobil’s production activities, one of the leading oil operators in Angola.
According to details provided, the objective is to ensure a high level of operational reliability while controlling operating costs and maintaining the safety standards required by the industry. This new contract confirms Bourbon’s intent to consolidate its position in high-activity offshore markets across Africa.
