Rapp Marine has been chosen as the supplier of advanced equipment packages for two new oceanographic research vessels for the Guangzhou Marine Geological Survey, GMGS, and Polar Research Institute of China, PRIC.

“The contracts were awarded in a highly competitive market against strong international competition. The choice fell on Rapp Marine since we can offer the best technological solutions, we have extensive experience with these types of deliveries, and because we were able to offer competitive terms,” explains CEO Helge Vatnehol.

The first equipment package will be supplied for GMGS’ oceanographic research ship which will engage in surveillance, research and advisory services.

Rapp’s second equipment package is for the ice-breaker which will be operated by research team from PRIC in the Southern Ocean. It is the first ice-breaker to be built in China.

The deliveries will be developed in Bodø, where most of the detail engineering will also take place. Production will be from the new factory in Serbia, Rapp Marine said.

“We have worked long and hard to land these contracts, so this is a joyful occasion” said Tove Pettersen, Senior Vice President Sales & Marketing, adding that “Most maritime nations are working on plans to build ocean-going research vessels and we are involved in exciting processes for a number of similar projects, apart from which we also see an increasing demand from the fishery sector.”

“This is a great compliment to management and the strong professionalism that has evolved within Rapp Marine Group and particularly here in Bodø,” says Board Chairman, Bjørn Hesthamar.