Eastern Echo signs up for more X-Bows

Eastern Echo Holding Plc has signed shipbuilding contracts with Drydocks World in Dubai and design and equipment contracts with Ulstein Design for two seismic vessels, each capable of towing up to 12 streamers.

The shipbuilding contracts conclude and replace the original Letter of Intent (LOI) announced on in September 2007. “We are pleased to announce the signing of these contracts today with Dubai Drydocks and Ulstein Design. The two new seismic vessels covered under this agreement will ensure the placement of the Eastern Echo fleet at the top end of the premium 3-D seismic segment,” said CEO Rolf R?nningen.

The two seismic vessels are both of the same innovative Ulstein SX124 (X-Bow) design as the previously announced shipbuilding contracts in Spain for four newbuilds. Like the four sister vessels, the two newly ordered vessels will be able to operate world wide, they are equipped for 3D seismic and can have up to twelve streamer winches.

The ship owner?s goal has been to build six identical vessels of the Ulstein SX124 type since this will save on maintenance and operational costs. Eastern Echo was one of the first ship owners to acknowledge the qualities of the Ulstein X-Bow in seismic vessels. Their soft movements in rough conditions make vessels with this bow particularly suited for seismic operations. The bow also contributes in reducing the fuel consumption, thus emitting less pollution.

The newbuildings will have a length of 88.8 metres, a breadth of 19 metres and accommodation for 69 persons. The two vessels ordered are to be delivered in March and May 2009 while the first four vessels currently under construction in Spain will be delivered in 2008 and 2009.