Marlink to Provide Services Aboard Shell's Fleet

Shell has extended its current business agreement for global maritime communications via satellite with Marlink. The original agreement for satellite airtime and traffic accounting services, which commenced in April 2001, has been extended into 2004. Marlink provides the Shell fleet of 48 ocean going vessels with data and voice communications via satellite, permitting the ships to communicate with the companies Head Office in London, offshore facilities, and port locations. Marlink also provides Inmarsat Mini-M service aboard the vessels. This service provides for crew calling and e-mails, using a prepaid calling solution sourced through Marlink's preferred suppliers. "Reliable maritime data communications for rapid and efficient processing of ship's business is an essential operational requirement," said Søren Einshøj, managing director of Marlink. "Marlink is dedicated to being the supplier of choice for the maritime industry by delivering cost-effective solutions that customers require. I am very pleased that Shell has once again placed its trust in Marlink for its critical maritime communications needs."