Large, flexible fleet and strong local presence ensure fast mobilisation of crew and equipment and streamlined logistics handling.

When ExxonMobil required rapid support with its operations offshore from Angola, Maersk Supply Service was contracted for an eight-day period in 2009. The project initially involved assisting with Xmas tree installation.

The installation, using an AHTS vessel equipped with a subsea crane, was immediately successful and the contract was extended first to three weeks, and then to three months. Maersk Supply Service then won a tender at the Angolan field for a three-year contract, which was then followed by another five-year contract. Eight days had turned into eight years – demonstrating Maersk Supply Service’s unique capability to provide rapid assistance through having a large, flexible fleet as well as long-term value through close teamwork with the customer.

The work on ExxonMobil’s field included installation of the subsea Xmas trees at depths of up to 1,400 metres. Maersk Supply Service’s vessel also proved its worth in performing an emergency towage of an ExxonMobil-contracted drilling rig, which had suffered a blackout and was drifting on the field.
One of the success factors was Maersk Supply Service’s local presence in Angola. This allowed fast mobilisation of crew and equipment and streamlined handling of all logistical issues, including import, export and crew employment.