Dutch Vroon has completed its financial restructuring with the sale of around 40 vessels, part of the offshore fleet.
Britoil Offshore Services in Singapore acquires 30 vessels, as well as the supporting offices in Singapore and Genua.
Norwegian GEOS purchases 5 vessels, and Rederij Groen from the Netherlands takes over 2 vessels.
Vroon announced earlier this year its intention to divest part of its offshore fleet, as part of a financial restructuring and strategic reorientation of the company.
As the shipowner claims the sales proceeds will be used to reduce debt to a normalised level, and as a result will strengthen the financial position of the company.
Now the next step for is to focus on its specialised deepsea fleet of product and high-heat tankers, livestock carriers, and emergency response and rescue vessels. The combined fleet will consist of over 65 modern and well-maintained vessels.
The top management reveals today that the transaction was concluded after a careful process, as it was important for Vroon to reach a beneficial and sustainable solution for its employees and customers.
The company considers the sale of these vessels and their supporting offices as “successful” as almost the entire workforce will be transferred to the new owners.
However, the supporting office in Den Helder could not be included in one of the transactions and, as a consequence, will be closed during 2024.
Vroon CEO Martijn Schouten noted: “With Britoil, GEOS and Rederij Groen, we have found solid new home ports for our offshore-support colleagues and fleet. Together with the new owners, we will take care of a smooth and seamless handover of our vessels, crews and supporting offices to ensure continuity for our customers.”
The chief executive also mentioned that these transactions mark the final conclusion of an intensive process and the beginning of a new chapter for Vroon.
“I would like to express my sincere thanks for the commitment and contributions of our seafarers and staff. The “new” Vroon will continue to focus on being an international shipping company, delivering operational excellence in niche markets.”
