Last week, Opsealog participated in OSJ London 2025. Represented by our Founder & Managing Director, Arnaud Dianoux, and Briac Lemée, our Business Development Manager.
Arnaud delivered a speech on how data can support the integration of new fuels and presented the Shipowner of the Year Award. This event was packed with insights into the evolving landscape of Offshore Support Vessels (OSVs).
→ Market outlook: stability and cautious investment
Tidewater Inc. CEO, Quintin Kneen, set the tone at OSJ London 2025. He emphasized that while OSV owners benefit from a supercycle driven by offshore drilling, the sector is still recovering, not fully growing. Read more : [Riviera Article Link]
OSV day rates should remain stable for the next 1–3 years. The fleet’s average age is 15 years, with gradual renewals as older vessels are phased out. However, replacements are not always like-for-like. Shipowners are cautious about new builds. No major advances in vessel design, propulsion, or fuel technology have created a strong incentive for orders. Without a clear technological breakthrough, speculative new builds remain unlikely.
Additionally, supply chain disruptions—including shipbuilding material shortages and equipment delays—are further dampening new build activity. As a result, shipowners are more inclined to extend the operational life of their existing fleet through maintenance and retrofits. New builds are only considered when the financial risk is shared between shipowners, charterers, and banks, typically under long-term contracts that ensure stability and return on investment.
Emerging offshore markets like Guyana and Suriname are attracting significant investment, potentially influencing future fleet demands. Decarbonization objectives and the absence of a breakthrough fuel or technology keep many in a “wait and see” mode, with investment decisions heavily influenced by market volatility.
Despite these challenges, the offshore cycle remains favorable if oil prices stay around $70 to $80, and financing is slowly recovering as emissions targets are adjusted.
→ The role of data in the energy transition
Arnaud Dianoux highlighted how data-driven solutions are key to generating tangible savings on the current fleet. These solutions are pivotal for integrating new fuels within OSV operations during a session focused on engines and future fuels. He presented a real-world case study showcasing how Opsealog measured the impact of a fuel additive. This case study delivered promising results that demonstrated tangible efficiency gains. Up to 7% of fuel savings to be added to the 15% that Opsealog is generating by changing behavior on current fleet usage.
From optimizing fuel consumption to ensuring compliance with evolving environmental regulations, Arnaud emphasized that data analytics is indispensable. His speech underscored the necessity of having robust data frameworks to support decision-making.
↓ Check out Arnaud’s presentation below. Want to learn more? Contact-us.
→ Futureproofing through operational efficiency
As mentioned above, discussions have confirmed that the OSV market remains in a wait-and-see mode. Many stakeholders prioritize profitability and fleet longevity over large-scale sustainability-driven investments. With an average vessel age of 15 years, the focus continues to be on extending fleet life through maintenance strategies and targeted retrofits, rather than committing to speculative new builds.
This is where data management for operational performance becomes essential. By leveraging data-driven insights, OSV operators can reduce fuel consumption by up to 15%, optimize maintenance planning, and ensure retrofits deliver measurable efficiency gains. The ability to track and analyze vessel performance allows companies to make strategic, cost-effective decisions while maintaining competitiveness in a fluctuating market.
→ Data standardization: staying on the course for operational excellence
Data standardization is a key focus for the OSV industry. It helps stakeholders improve energy efficiency, drive innovation, and track best practice implementation. A consistent data framework allows accurate measurement of new technologies. It sets clear baselines to assess their impact before and after deployment.
Discussion at OSJ London 2025, focused on the importance of data standardization. Industry leaders agree that harmonized reporting improves efficiency and supports decarbonization. The International Support Vessel Owners’ Association (ISOA) is contributing by publishing offshore data standards. Opsealog actively participates in this effort.
Our recent white paper, Creating Value from Data Standardization, explores how standardized data enhances decision-making. It improves performance tracking and accelerates sustainability goals. As the industry moves forward, data standardization remains essential for operational efficiency and innovation.
→ Celebrating excellence: The Shipowner of the Year award
As part of our sponsorship at OSJ London 2025, Arnaud Dianoux had the honor of presenting the Shipowner of the Year Award to Milaha.
This award recognized Milaha’s contributions to the OSV sector, showcasing their commitment to operational excellence, innovation, and sustainability. The recognition underscored the vital role of shipowners in advancing the industry. It aligns with Opsealog’s mission to drive continuous improvement in maritime operations.
Shortlisted vessel owners were Cyan Renewables, North Star Shipping, and Rawabi Vallianz Offshore Services
Final thoughts
OSJ London 2025 reaffirmed that while the OSV sector is navigating a buoyant market, the key to long-term success lies in balanced growth, technological adaptation, and data-driven strategies. At Opsealog, we remain committed to supporting the industry through innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and sustainability.
Insights from our team: “OSJ London 2025 highlighted a clear trend: data is no longer just an operational tool; it’s a strategic asset. Whether it’s optimizing fuel consumption, improving vessel availability, or supporting decarbonization efforts, data-driven insights are shaping the future of the OSV sector.
At Opsealog, we are proud to be part of this transformation, delivering tangible value to shipowners and operators.”