GLO Marine, in partnership with VMS Group Denmark, has been selected by Tidewater, the world’s largest offshore support vessel operator, to execute a comprehensive multi-vessel retrofit program, marking a significant expansion of their collaboration in the offshore energy sector. The partnership builds on a proven track record of delivering complex upgrades efficiently and at scale.
Covering 16 of Tidewater’s vessels across three continents—including several in U.S. waters—the program marks an important step in both companies’ strategy to provide fleet-scale retrofit solutions to the international offshore vessels market. It highlights their capability to manage multi-region logistics, compliance, and client requirements.
GLO Marine and VMS Group combine deep engineering expertise, turnkey project control, and global delivery capacity—meeting the industry’s growing demand for upgrades done efficiently and with minimum impact on operations.
“By approaching this as a multi-vessel program rather than managing each vessel individually, we have successfully reduced engineering hours by 25% and materials and logistics costs by 15% per vessel. This achievement was made possible through the development of a plug-and-play system, which not only accelerates retrofit execution but also ensures cost reductions while maintaining the expected quality standards. Such impactful results are attainable only through well-aligned and collaborative efforts.” said Alin Pohilca, Operations Director at GLO Marine.
He added “This program is a clear example of what we bring to the table: high-volume coordination, technical precision, and hands-on execution at scale. We are fully equipped to support offshore vessel operators globally with retrofit and upgrade programs that demand both engineering proficiency and speed.”
Project Progress
GLO Marine and VMS Group are executing a full-scope BWTS retrofit and lifecycle project management plan for 16 Tidewater vessels. To date, starting December 2024, the teams have delivered 16 BWTS systems, surveyed 14 vessels, delivered 12 engineering packages approved by class, completed prefabrication and materials procurement for 5, and successfully retrofitted and commissioned 2—with over 50 professionals involved across the U.S., Africa, and Europe.
The work is being delivered through a fully integrated EPCI model, with GLO Marine managing engineering, prefabrication, logistics, and installation. This approach ensures full control and benefits the client, which deals with only one point of contact throughout the project.
A Strategic Alliance for Offshore Energy Operators
Together, GLO Marine and VMS Group deliver comprehensive retrofit solutions for the offshore energy sector. VMS brings deep experience in propulsion systems, engine overhauls, and global field support, while GLO Marine contributes class-approved engineering, procurement coordination, and turnkey execution. Their combined strengths allow for highly integrated services, optimized for the operational realities of offshore fleet upgrades.
“In today’s offshore energy landscape, no single company can tackle complexity alone. The ever more difficult challenges demand cross-border collaboration and a shared vision. Strategic partnerships like ours enable engineering, equipment, and service teams to act as one—delivering scalable, efficient, and future-ready solutions,” said Palle Andersen, Engineering Manager at VMS Group.
About GLO Marine
GLO Marine provides comprehensive vessel upgrade services, supporting clients throughout the full project lifecycle—from consultancy and design to execution and delivery. Our expertise covers retrofits, conversions and mobilisations, and integration of energy efficiency and green technologies. We combine engineering precision, proactive project management, and skilled execution to deliver technically sound and reliable solutions for the maritime and offshore industries.
