August 20 2010 - Bergen

On Friday August 20th, SNAME members and guests enjoyed a guided tour of the nearly completed "Geo Coral".  The "Geo Coral" is the latest in a series of seismic vessels designed by Skipsteknisk, built in Gdansk and outfitted/completed at Bergen Group's yard at Laksevåg, Norway.  Martin Hartland from Fugro gave an overview of the vessel, followed by a guided tour.  Martin's presentation included an overview of Fugro's diverse portfolio of services, as well as a thorough presentation of unique features of their latest seismic vessel.  The presentation was held onboard the vessel in its impressive theater.  The 10 members and guests were then taken around the ship by Martin, from bow to stern and from bridge to the engine room.  One of the more modern features of the vessel is the use of all-electric drives for the massive streamer winches.  A major benefit is the reduced maintenance over the hydraulic systems they've used in the past.

	The "Geo Coral" in drydock at Bergen Group's Laksevåg yard.
	Martin Hartland from Fugro showing the group the "Geo Coral" engine room.

Upon completion of the tour of "Geo Coral", the group was given a brief tour of the "Fugro Symphony", which is a stretched version of the hull design used for "Geo Coral".  Fugro plans to use the "Fugro Symphony" for ROV- and construction-work.  The outfitting has yet to be started, so the group was given a rare chance to see the hull prior to all the equipment being installed.


Martin Hartland (in orange jacket) with SNAME members and guests after the tour of "Geo Coral" and "Fugro Symphony" (in background).

Many thanks to Martin for generously sharing his time to the benefit of our members and colleagues in the marine industry!