Dubai-based Polarcus extends Marlink customised VSAT services for two newbuild vessels

The Dubai-based marine geophysical company with a pioneering environmental agenda has also signed to extend the use of Sealink VSAT services that have already been fully customized to provide connectivity aboard five existing Polarcus X-bow design seismic vessels for a further three years.

The new build vessel contract and extension of services for ships already using Sealink was handled by Marlink Dubai.

The vessels themselves are highly specialised, with focus on environmentally friendly operations in Polar Regions, so stable and always available connectivity is vital, especially considering Polarcus' strong commitment to reduce the environmental impact of oil & gas operations.

Being fully customised to meet any vessel and customer specific connectivity requirements, Sealink provides a reliable and scalable link for Polarcus' business critical operations and provides significant enhancements in operational efficiency.

To meet the demanding data needs of Amani and Adira, Marlink will deliver the same customized Sealink solution being used today aboard the five existing Polarcus vessels.

The solution is based on dual C-band antennas with automatic switchover, dedicated full-duplex bandwidth through a Single Channel Per Carrier (SCPC) satellite link to increase power to each ship individually on low elevations in Polar areas.

Also, including several LAN networks on board, eight simultaneous voice lines and access to Marlink's highly advanced prepaid solutions. It also enables GSM services over the satellite link and features Iridium Pilot as back-up, to ensure continuous, global connectivity regardless of location.

"We have worked closely with Marlink and they have shown great flexibility and support to ensure that the connectivity meets our needs," explains Magnus Oberg, Vice President Information Technology at Polarcus.

"Although the primary use for our connectivity is operational, it's also vital that we provide crew with a way to communicate with friends and family, and engineers on board to work remotely with experts on land. The Sealink service allows us to manage exactly how the connectivity is used, which supports our seismic operations and IT organisation."

As an operator that takes its environmental responsibilities very seriously, Polarcus believes that fast, reliable connectivity is vital. The distinctive Ulstein X-Bow double hull vessels used by Polarcus incorporate some of the most advanced navigation systems available today and have highly skilled crew on board. Should any technical difficulties arise though, for example with the vessel engines, reliable remote diagnosis via IP applications on the Sealink connectivity helps to resolve any issues quickly, therefore avoiding impact on the environment.

"Whether cutting-edge seismic vessels like Polarcus', cruise and passenger ships, offshore platforms or maritime transport vessels, Sealink customised VSAT enables us to develop connectivity services to meet the exact customer requirements," comments Magne Remoy, Marlink's Director Middle East and Africa.

"In the case of Polarcus vessels, the connectivity has been customized to support the company's specific operations and crew welfare, whilst strengthening Polarcus' ability to pioneer seismic exploration with responsibility and without harm to the global environment."