Heavylift vessel spot rates will continue to fluctuate at a low level this year, but from next year the market will improve.
Heavylift vessel spot rates will continue to fluctuate at a low level this year, but from next year the market will improve, as more energy infrastructure projects start-up. André Goedée, CEO of contractor Dockwise, said: “Through 2010, we saw a slow increase in utilisation in a stable pricing environment, albeit on a low level. “2011 will have more of a spot market nature than 2010 and is, therefore, still uncertain, from a backlog perspective. “However, markets that typically show demand for services like, for example, exploration drilling, seem to demonstrate more activity. The years beyond look promising.” The specialist heavylift vessel operator has now firmed-up a US$25 million contract to transport a vessel hull from Korea to the Gulf of Mexico on behalf of a Chevron affiliate this year. Goedée also said Dockwise had confirmed a further eight contracts for heavylift shipping services, worth a total of $30 million, and would transport another vessel hull, for Bluewater Industries, from a fabrication yard in China to Europe.