We have advised Jifmar Group, a global leader in workboat operations, on entering into an agreement to acquire Seacontractors’ workboat fleet up to the 50-ton bollard pull class. The transaction marks a strategic move that strengthens Jifmar’s leadership in the shallow-draft workboat segment and expands its established presence in the Middle East, while enabling Seacontractors to sharpen its focus on high-spec offshore support vessels.
The deal covers a fleet of 15 vessels, primarily operating in the Middle East, along with 183 staff members. Seacontractors’ onshore office team in the Middle East, as well as the crews dedicated to the transferred vessels, will join Jifmar Group. Jifmar will continue to execute ongoing projects and deliver maritime services with the same high standards of quality and reliability that clients have long associated with both Jifmar and Seacontractors. To ensure a seamless transition, Seacontractors will provide support during the handover period. Completion of the transaction is expected in the coming weeks.
This acquisition follows Jifmar’s 2023 takeover of Acta Marine’s workboat division, consolidating its leadership in shallow-draft workboat operations. Upon completion of the transaction, Jifmar Group will operate a fleet of more than 80 vessels, significantly reinforcing its capacity to support clients worldwide.
For Seacontractors, the transaction represents a milestone in its growth strategy, allowing the company to focus on Anchor Handling Tug Supply (AHTS) vessels in the 70- to 200-ton bollard pull range. This strategic shift strengthens Seacontractors’ expertise across deep-sea anchor handling, terminal towage, coastal and deep-sea towage, as well as EPCI project support.
