Discover the Falkor-Too: Ratings & Maritime News

After successfully addressing a malfunction with its A-frame structure, the research vessel 'Falkor Too' is back in action, continuing its vital expedition to study the Uruguayan continental seabed. This particular piece of equipment, essential for managing heavy loads, had previously compelled the ship to return to Montevideo for repairs. On August 26, the vessel re-departed from the port, eager to dive back into its significant research mission, which initially launched on August 22. The 'Falkor Too' is at the forefront of what aims to be the most extensive examination of Uruguay's continental shelf and deep ocean ecosystems. Supported by a dedicated crew of 37 scientists and technicians from 18 institutions across six countries, the expedition is being conducted under the supervision of the University of the Republic (Udelar) in Uruguay. Scientists aboard the vessel are meticulously exploring a segment of the seabed that ranges from 200 to 3,600 meters deep. This research endeavor, titled 'Visualizing the Depths off Uruguay' (Uruguay SUB200), is set to unfold over the next few weeks, concluding on September 10. The findings from this expedition are anticipated to provide invaluable insights into the rich biodiversity and geological features of this underexplored region, enhancing our understanding of the marine environment.

The research vessel 'Falkor Too' was compelled to cease its scientific expedition, titled 'Visualizing the Depths off Uruguay,' during the initial days of its mission. On August 25, 2025, the ship returned to its home port in Montevideo after encountering a technical malfunction involving its A-frame structure, an essential component for operating underwater equipment and managing heavy loads. The A-frame unexpectedly stalled while being elevated from its stored position to a vertical orientation. Fortunately, no personnel were injured during this incident. This device is vital for the progression of the mission, and once the technical issues are rectified, the 'Falkor Too' is set to continue its research operations at 'point 3' of the 32 designated locations for this campaign, with minimal disruption to the overall workflow.

GC Rieber Shipping has announced the successful signing of a time charter for its versatile CSV vessel, POLAR QUEEN, with a prominent European offshore client. This agreement, which spans a duration of four months, includes options for an additional month. Notably, this charter marks the complete fulfillment of contracts for all subsea vessels operated by GC Rieber Shipping for the summer season of 2018. The POLAR QUEEN is set to operate within the British sector, focusing on walk-to-work duties, with operations set to kick off in May 2018. CEO Christian W. Berg expressed enthusiasm regarding this latest charter, stating, "We are pleased to see Polar Queen build on her success in the walk-to-work market and secure a new substantial charter with Tier 1 clients. With this charter, GC Rieber Shipping is sold out for the summer of 2018. Both POLAR KING and POLAR ONYX are now on solid long-term charters, and the agreement for POLAR QUEEN proves the robustness of our crew and organizational capabilities."

In an exciting development for the maritime sector, GC Rieber Shipping ASA has officially signed a three-year time charter agreement with Boa Marine Services Inc. (BMSI) for the subsea vessel 'POLAR QUEEN' (IMO number: [insert IMO number]). This agreement marks a continuation of BMSI's current charter of the vessel, which is set to commence in April 2015. BMSI has been utilizing 'POLAR QUEEN' since October 2012. Boa Marine Services Inc., a prominent subsidiary of the Norwegian-owned Boa Group, has expressed enthusiasm over this extended collaboration. The new charter arrangement includes options that could see the contract extend for three additional years beyond the initial term. Irene W. Basili, CEO of GC Rieber Shipping, highlighted the positive and productive relationship with BMSI, stating, 'GC Rieber Shipping has had a strong and good relationship with Boa Marine Services Inc. under the current contract. We look forward to extending and further build our cooperation with Boa Marine Services Inc. in the years to come.' As the maritime industry continues to evolve, this partnership signifies a commitment to excellence in subsea operations, emphasizing long-term collaboration and innovation.

GC Rieber Shipping has officially entered a two-year agreement with the Mexican firm Oceanografia for the use of its latest subsea newbuild, the Polar Queen. This vessel, recently delivered by Freire Shipyard in Spain, is set to commence operations in November. With this addition, three out of four vessels from GC Rieber's newbuilding program are now operational and currently under hire, showcasing the company's robust growth in the subsea sector.