Maritime Partner AS, a leading Norwegian shipbuilder, announced the signing of a landmark contract to deliver seven state-of-the-art “SJØBJØRN 71” SAR vessels. This contract marks the largest order in the company’s history and is set to sustain local employment and economic growth well into 2028, creating significant opportunities for the region.
“We are extremely grateful and delighted that our long-standing customer has entrusted us once again to build this new series of larger and more advanced vessels,” says Torstein Heggstad, CEO at Maritime Partner. The customer has previously received 20 boats from Maritime Partner, and this new series builds upon our successful track record and positive experiences.
“This contract reflects the strong collaboration we have cultivated over the years. Together, we have developed a vessel design that not only meets but exceeds operational expectations, reaffirming our position as a leading supplier of high-performance boats,” says Henrik Myklebust, SVP Sales & Marketing at Management at Maritime Partner.
“Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) is pleased with the contract and looks forward to further cooperation with Maritime Partner regarding the new rescue vessels. The addition of the new vessels in the coming years is a fundamental element in the ongoing renewal of the existing fleet of rescue vessels. The renewal will give the Coastal Rescue Service a significant boost in its ability to solve the entire spectrum of tasks under the Ministry of Community Safety and Emergency Preparedness. At the same time, the new vessels will ensure that the working environment and safety for the personnel are improved. DALO has high expectations for the new vessels from Maritime Partner and we are very much looking forward to the imminent collaboration in the project” says Commander Steen Balslev at Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation
The new “SJØBJØRN 71” SAR vessels built on a proven hull design, feature the following specifications:
- Length: 21.7 meters
- Width: 5.9 meters
- Range: Over 350 nautical miles
- Speed: +35 knots
- Power: 2 x approximately 1200 kW with Waterjet
- Environmental Compliance: IMO Tier III
- Safety Features: Self-righting – even with damaged wheelhouse, Firefighting system, Full redundancy
- Towing Capacity: Over 9 tons
- Crew: Accommodates 5 persons
- Certification: DNV approved
- Flag: Registered under the Danish flag
This ambitious contract involves all departments within Maritime Partner, including Design, 3D, and VR mock-ups, comprehensive documentation,and demanding project work. The project includes extensive spare parts packages, rigorous testing and training programs, and assembly at our production facility in Breivika, Aalesund.
“At Maritime Partner we have created more than 2300 vessels since our very beginning back in 1994. Many of these in the rescue-boat sector. We have employees that´s been here from day one – now teaming up with the younger generation, skilled engineers and designers with bright perspectives. That´s a magic receipt for creating innovative designs with a substance. Add to that a client like DALO who know what they want – and know from experience what works – the scene was set for an intense period of development.
DALO asked for their new design to be based on a well-proven hull design. We gave them our best: The A2000 hull dates way back, in its glory days it was seen as a real thoroughbred in terms of speed, range, sea keeping and safety –securing its success in some Mediterranean countries with their exposed coastline and rough waters.
Team MP has updated the design to meet strict customer requirements and user needs, fulfilling a wish to become more efficient and environmentally conscious in the process,” says Robert Myrene, COO at Maritime Partner.
Maritime Partner is committed to using quality products from top-tier suppliers within their segments, with a focus on utilising local suppliers wherever possible. The vessels are custom-built to meet the highest standards of quality and performance, ensuring that they are equipped to handle the most demanding maritime conditions.
The propulsion system meets stringent IMO Tier III emission requirements, supporting the transition to sustainable energy sources. The waterjets ensure exceptional maneuverability, reduced noise and vibration,user-friendliness, and easy service access.
By choosing aluminium construction, we achieve unparalleled strength combined with environmental sustainability. The use of partially recycled aluminium and the potential for full recyclability at the end of the life cycle further emphasise our commitment to green solutions.
