UK vessel operator HST Marine and marine company Boluda France and have signed an agreement to set up a company to target the French offshore wind market.
The memorandum of understanding will see the companies set up a joint venture to offer Crew Transfer Vessel services to the growing market.
Boluda France, which has over 1200 employees to operate a fleet of 75 tugs and 30 service vessels, will bring maritime expertise of the French industry to the partnership.
It has six operational bases located in Saint Nazaire, La Rochelle, Brest, Le Havre, Dunkirk and Marseiille-Fos.
Chief executive Denis Monserand said the company is “convinced” that by joining forces with HST Marine the JV will become an “effective and reliable” partner to French offshore wind companies.
HST Marine is meanwhile a specialist in CTV operations having wide experience in the offshore wind industry already.
Chief executive Tom Nevin said the pair will offer a “fantastic package” to new and existing clients.