Dutch shipping company Vroon has completed its sale of 40 offshore vessels as part of a previously announced restructuring.
Going forward, Vroon will focus on deep-sea transport and emergency response and rescue with a fleet of 65 vessels comprised of livestock carriers, product tankers, high-heat tankers, and emergency response and rescue vessels (ERRV).
Britoil Offshore Services from Singapore acquired 30 OSVs, along with the supporting offices in Singapore and Genua. Norwegian GEOS purchased five OSVs, and Rederij Groen from the Netherlands took over two OSVs.
Vroon announced plans to sell part of its offshore fleet to reduce debt and improve its financial position in June as part of a financial restructuring and strategic reorganization. The restructuring resulted in the majority ownership being transferred to lenders, with the Vroon family retaining only a small interest, and the installation of a new management team.
Vroon’s offshore fleet comprised anchor-handling tug supply vessels (ATHS), platform supply vessels (PSVs), service operation/walk-to-work vessels (SOV), and subsea support vessels, and maintenance working/accommodation vessels.
The sale of vessels and supporting offices by Vroon was largely successful, with almost the entire workforce being transferred to the new owners. However, the office in Den Helder will be closed in 2024.
Vroon says it plans to build on its 130-plus years of experience, focusing on its specialized deepsea fleet of tankers, livestock carriers, and emergency response vessels. The fleet will include over 65 modern and well-maintained vessels, with support from 1,400 highly experienced employees.
“With Britoil, GEOS and Rederij Groen, we have found solid new home ports for our offshore-support colleagues and fleet,” said Vroon CEO Martijn Schouten. “Together with the new owners, we will take care of a smooth and seamless handover of our vessels, crews and supporting offices to ensure continuity for our customers. These transactions mark the final conclusion of an intensive process and the beginning of a new chapter for Vroon. I would like to express my sincere thanks for the commitment and contributions of our seafarers and staff. The “new” Vroon will continue to focus on being an international shipping company, delivering operational excellence in niche markets. ”