Smarter And Greener Solutions News

Ulstein Group said it achieved a “good result” for 2014, with an operating turnover of NOK 2.7 billion compared to 2013’s NOK 2.3 billion. Meanwhile, the group’s operating profit of NOK 184.1 million comes in under the NOK 317.8 million operating profit for 2013, while the 2014 operating result before tax of NOK 167.7 million is again lower than NOK 360.8 million for 2013. “We are pleased with last year’s figures. Today’s market is tough, and we are preparing for even harder times to come. There will be major demand for restructuring and change,” said CEO Gunvor Ulstein.

Ulstein Group introduced the X-STERN, a design feature increasing vessel operability through positive effects on station keeping, wave response, comfort and safety in harsh conditions. An X-STERN vessel can stay on position in harsh weather with the stern towards waves, wind and current. For vessels where the best possible motion characteristics are vital, positioning the X-STERN towards the weather instead of the bow will be the captain’s natural choice. The X-STERN leads to reduced pitch and wave drift forces, as well as eliminating slamming.

Ulstein has sold design and equipment packages for four ocean going tugs to Niigata Shipbuilding & Repair in Japan. The vessels will be built for the Dutch company ALP Maritime Services. The vessels are primarily designed for towing of large structures over long distances. This is a new market for Ulstein and the contract represents so far the highest value in one single contract for Ulstein Design & Solutions. The vessels of the SX157 design are developed especially for this project in close collaboration with ALP.