"Ramform Tethys" in Algeciras

For the second time at the port of Algeciras, the unique maritime silhouette of the seismic vessel “Ramform Tethys,” the third in a series of four Nordic design twins, is aimed at assessing the possibilities of locating oil and natural gas. This vessel is owned by the Norwegian company Petroleum Geo-Services (PGS), based in Oslo. Last May, it made a technical stop during its delivery journey.

The shape of the hull and superstructure makes it very striking. It measures 104.20 m in length and 70 m in width, and therein lies the most characteristic aspect of its exterior. From the stern, up to 24 fiber cables are deployed, forming a survey mesh capable of covering 12 kilometers equipped with chips inside that measure the echo of compressed air explosions. From the data obtained, the density of the seabed can be determined as it passes. Control is exercised from the bridge using electronic systems and dynamic positioning. The three-dimensional information obtained is passed on to the oil companies that have commissioned the work for their evaluation and subsequent decision on explorations.

In 2011, PGS contracted with the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries shipyard at its factory in Nagasaki for the construction of four seismic vessels, the first of which, named “Ramform Titan,” was delivered in April 2013. The second vessel is called “Ramform Atlas” and entered service in 2014. The third is our protagonist, and the fourth, scheduled for 2017, will be named “Ramform Hyperion.”

The propulsion system has a power of 18 megawatts, allowing it to maintain a speed of 16 knots. The maximum crew consists of 80 people, with 60 in single cabins. It is a vessel of 20,637 gross tons, 6,192 net tons, and 7,351 tons deadweight. IMO Code 9676888.

Photo: Juan Gabriel Mata