Topaz takes a double at Seatrade Awards

The 'Personality of the Year' award presented to Fazelbhoy was one of three special honours on the night, bestowed upon individuals for their significant and lasting contribution to the shipping and maritime industry throughout the region.

In his acceptance speech, Fazelbhoy expressed his gratitude towards his colleagues in Topaz and the Board of Directors for their continued trust and investment in Topaz's success. Samir J. Fancy, Chairman of the Board of Topaz's parent company, Omani-based Renaissance Services, attended the event and was delighted with the industry recognition.

Topaz Marine MENA earned Topaz's second award of the night. The 'Workboats' award was secured thanks to Topaz's fleet size and the great diversity of the fleet that includes Anchor Handling Tug Supply Vessels, Platform Supply Vessels, Multi Purpose Supply Vessels, Workboats, Crew Boats and specialized vessels such as a Cable Lay Vessel, a DP-II Subsea Construction Barge, a DP II Maintenance Support Vessel and a DP I Support Vessel.

Topaz's low average fleet age, blue-chip client base and laudable safety track record also helped tip the scales in its favour.

GM of Topaz Marine MENA, Ron Clark commented on the award:

"It's a great honor to have won at Seatrade for the third year running, that's something I'm very proud of. This win would of course not have been possible without the commitment of our excellent staff and management of whom I'm truly grateful."

Topaz Marine MENA was also a finalist in the 'Marine and Offshore Services' award.

Topaz was also represented as a finalist through Topaz Marine Repair in the 'Ship Repair/ Shipyard' category.

Topaz's awards were won in competition with prominent companies and individuals of the maritime community in the Middle East and India. The ceremony and gala dinner took place at the Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai and was attended by 600 maritime executives.

Earlier this week, Topaz announced its USD 400,000 CSR-sponsorship of the Flying Angel at the Middle East Workboats Exhibition (MEWB), organized by Seatrade. The Flying Angel is a seafarer's support boat operating in the offshore anchorage of Fujairah. The vessel is a floating communications platform allowing thousands of mariners each year to step off their vessels for a few hours and contact their loved ones at home. Through the Mission to Seafarers and the Flying Angel, Topaz will be able to help these seafarers maintain relationships with their families and allow them a much needed break from their daily routines.

Topaz both exhibited and was a sponsor of the MEWB exhibition and had a very successful show. Topaz's newest fleet addition, the light crew boat Topaz Fujairah, was on display at the ADNEC Marina. Many prospective clients visited the 30 meter catamaran and were impressed by the vessel's safety features and high specifications.