Norway: Ulstein yesterday delivered the seismic research vessel 'Oceanic Sirius' to its owners, a joint-venture between ship-owner Eidesvik and the geophysical company CGGVeritas.
'Oceanic Sirius' is the second of two vessels of the SX120 type designed by Ulstein Design & Solutions. Her sister vessel 'Oceanic Vega' was delivered by Ulstein in July 2010. 'Oceanic Sirius' is designed and built in accordance with strict environmental standards and equipped with state-of-the-art technology for advanced seismic research operations.
A powerful seismic research vessel with a dynamic towing force of 140 tons, 'Oceanic Sirius' is ideally suited for acquisition of large 3D, 4D or high-resolution projects. The vessel's 20 streamer winches are each capable of spooling 9 kilometres of streamers. Carrying an ICE-C classification, 'Oceanic Sirius' can operate in new-frontier areas, and is designed to stay permanently at sea with five-year docking intervals, with refuelling carried out by dedicated support vessels.
The vessel is equipped with two CP (controllable pitch) propellers in a nozzle, each driven by two frequency converter-driven electric motors. This allows smooth speed control of around five knots during seismic acquisition. Two workboats will be used for maintenance of in-water equipment.