Seismic Survey Operations in the Azerbaijani Sector of the Caspian Sea

PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION:

Technical requirements for the fleet: Three MB-class tugs with an upgraded deck configured as a flat open area with railings and a power supply outlet for equipment, as well as accommodation and meals for up to 10 specialized personnel on board.

Equipment availability: We have experience with similar work in the SMP (Northern Sea Route) in 2022–2023, so most of the 3 sets of deck upgrade equipment were already in stock. During the work, ZAO “Kranservis” and design bureau “Kompas,” together with design bureau “Passat” (due to tight deadlines), developed the design documentation for “MB-1217” and “Nord,” and updated it for “MB-1216.”

Fleet mobilization: The vessels departed from the port of Astrakhan for the port of Karadag (Azerbaijan). “Nord” and “MB-1216” sailed directly along the western coast, while “MB-1217” made a double crossing of the Caspian Sea (along the eastern coast) due to R2RSN class restrictions. On 21.07.25, the vessels arrived at the port of Karadag.

Work schedule: Due to a significant delay in the arrival of the Charterer’s seismic equipment in Azerbaijan, the work schedule was shifted, and the full scope of work was not completed, also partly due to changing weather conditions. The project will continue in 2026.