Offshore:Torch Offshore Adds to Deepwater Fleet

Torch Offshore, Inc. entered into an agreement for the purchase of the Wave Alert, a 340-ft. cable-laying dynamically positioned ("DP-2") vessel, from Global Marine Shipping Limited for approximately $10.9 million. The purchase of the vessel is being financed by Global Marine and will be paid off by the over a five-year period. The company will rename this addition to its deepwater fleet the Midnight Wrangler.

"We believe the addition of the Midnight Wrangler to our deepwater fleet continues to strengthen our position as a deepwater capable company. This vessel is in outstanding condition and has 15,750 square feet of deck space.

With the addition of the crane, we feel this vessel can perform deepwater construction in all regions of the world in various water depths," Torch Offshore, Inc. Chairman and CEO, Lyle G. Stockstill, said.

Delivery of the Midnight Wrangler is expected in March 2003 after the vessel has gone through its required drydock and all cable lay equipment has been removed. At that time, the company will take possession of the vessel and install a 125-ton crane. The company expects to use the vessel initially as a deepwater subsea construction vessel.