Ocea Combi Boat
The Vendée shipbuilder Ocea, based in Les Sables d’Olonne, has designed a range of service vessels specifically designed to fulfil the requirements of the marine renewable energies sector. According to Fabrice Epaud, the group’s commercial director, the regional projects will play a key role in promoting local skills in the export markets.
Could you briefly introduce us to Ocea?
“Founded in 1987, the Ocea group has grown rapidly, both in France and abroad. We now have 250 employees working in four production sites in France, and weare the partner of choice for anymarineor industrialconstruction project using aluminium.”
What part of your range is targeted at the marine renewables market?
“Our Ocea Combi range of multipurpose crew boats is designed to perform all tasks relating to the transfer of technicians and equipment from port to offshore site, or between sites. They are very fast, handle well in bad weather, have good safety systems to protect passengers and cargo, and are supplied with our exclusive gyroscopic stabilisation system.”
A new wind farm is about to arrive off the Vendée coast. What does this mean for Ocea?
“Obviously we’re hoping that this will mean more orders for our boats! But our involvement should bring synergy between regional and international players and build long term partnerships. All of the sector’s requirements can be met locally, and our considerable experience as a chief contractor puts us in a good position to bring together the necessary people and skills. Participation in this project haswidened our product range,and creates new opportunities to export our skills and knowledgeinto the international offshore wind market, complementing our existing activity in offshore oil and gas.”
Further information: www.ocea.fr
