Italy-based Next Geosolutions (NextGeo) has acquired the vessel Deep Helder from Dutch company SeaMar Subsea, renaming it NG Surveyor as part of its expansion plans to meet the growing demand in the offshore sector. The vessel will support geophysical, geotechnical, environmental, and unexploded ordnance (UXO) survey activities.
Built in 2014, the NG Surveyor measures 64.8 meters in length, 15.8 meters in width, and offers 500m² of deck space. It is equipped with a DP2 system and can accommodate up to 48 personnel. After delivery, NextGeo plans a refitting process to install advanced equipment, including three multibeam echosounders (MBS), a sub-bottom profiler (SBP), and an acoustic positioning system (USBL), enabling high-resolution surveys in both shallow and deep waters up to 11,000 meters.
The total acquisition investment is €21 million, with an additional €4 million allocated for the equipment installation. CEO Giovanni Ranieri emphasized that this acquisition is part of NextGeo's growth strategy, enhancing the fleet and survey capabilities to secure international business opportunities.
The financing for the acquisition includes €12 million from Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) and Credito Emiliano (Credem), with repayment terms of eight to ten years. In late 2024, NextGeo also acquired the vessel Sea Admiral from Beitveit Holding, renamed NG Explorer, further boosting its offshore survey operations.