1 Global Offshore Support Vessels Market Size and Definition
In 2025, the global Offshore Support Vessels market is forecasted to reach a total value of 8,088.4 million USD. This market has shown consistent growth over the past few years, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.46% projected from 2025 to 2030. Offshore Support Vessels, also known as Offshore Supply Vessels, are specialized ships designed for multiple purposes, including platform support, anchor handling, construction, maintenance, and more. These vessels play a crucial role in the offshore industry, particularly in sectors such as oil and gas, offshore wind, and military applications. The market’s growth is driven by increasing demand for these specialized vessels to support expanding offshore activities worldwide.
Figure Global Offshore Support Vessels Market Revenue and CAGR 2025-2030
2 Drivers and Limitations of Offshore Support Vessels Market Growth
The growth of the Offshore Support Vessels market is influenced by several key drivers and limitations. One of the primary drivers is the increasing demand for deep and ultra-deep water operations in the oil and gas industry. As shallow water reserves become depleted, companies are exploring deeper waters, requiring advanced vessels capable of withstanding harsh conditions. The discovery of new offshore hydrocarbon reserves also adds momentum to the market. For example, the Sureste Basin off Mexico is estimated to hold significant oil reserves, driving the need for more offshore support vessels.
However, the market faces several limitations. High operational risks, including environmental hazards and the potential for accidents, are major concerns. The industry must comply with stringent regulations such as the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL). Additionally, the high capital costs associated with building and maintaining these vessels, coupled with fluctuations in global crude oil prices, can hinder market growth. The COVID-19 pandemic has also had a significant impact, disrupting supply chains and reducing demand for offshore activities.
3 Offshore Support Vessels Market Technological Innovations and Mergers & Acquisitions Analysis
Technological innovation and corporate restructuring have played vital roles in shaping the Offshore Support Vessels market. Modern vessels are equipped with advanced technologies to improve efficiency and safety. For example, some vessels now feature hybrid propulsion systems, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The integration of digital technologies, such as fleet management systems, enhances operational transparency and responsiveness.
Corporate restructuring activities, including mergers and acquisitions, have also been prominent. For instance, Seacor Marine’s acquisition of Seacosco in 2020 consolidated the ownership of several advanced platform supply vessels, strengthening Seacor Marine’s position in the market. Another notable merger was between Tidewater and GulfMark in 2018, creating the largest global OSV operator. These strategic moves aim to enhance market competitiveness, achieve economies of scale, and improve operational efficiency.
4 Global Offshore Support Vessels Market Analysis by Type
The global Offshore Support Vessels market is segmented into three primary types: Anchor Handling Tug/Anchor Handling Towing Supply Vessels (AHT/AHTSS), Platform Supply Vessels (PSV), and Other types. Each type serves distinct functions within the offshore industry, and their market sizes and shares are projected to evolve over time.
Anchor Handling Tug/Anchor Handling Towing Supply Vessels (AHT/AHTSS) generated a revenue of USD 3,212.0 million in 2025 with a market share of 39.71%. AHT/AHTSS vessels are primarily used for towing and anchor handling operations, especially in the oil and gas industry. These vessels are crucial for positioning and maintaining the stability of offshore rigs and platforms. Their robust design and high bollard pull capabilities make them indispensable for deepwater and ultra-deepwater operations.
Platform Supply Vessels (PSV) generated a revenue of USD 2,324.9 million, with a market share of 28.75%. PSVs are designed to supply offshore platforms with essential materials, equipment, and personnel. They are versatile vessels capable of operating in various weather conditions, ensuring continuous support to offshore installations. PSVs are equipped with large deck areas and storage capacities, making them ideal for logistics support in the oil and gas sector.
Table Global Offshore Support Vessels Market Size and Share by Type in 2025
|
Type |
Market Size (USD Million) |
Market Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
|
Anchor Handling Tug/AHTSS |
3,212.0 |
39.71 |
|
Platform Supply Vessels (PSV) |
2,324.9 |
28.75 |
5 Global Offshore Support Vessels Market Analysis by Application
The global Offshore Support Vessels market is segmented into various applications, each contributing significantly to the overall market consumption.
In 2025, the Oil & Gas sector is projected to consume 208 units of offshore support vessels. This sector has traditionally been a major consumer of these vessels due to the extensive logistical requirements of offshore drilling and production operations. The vessels are essential for transporting personnel, equipment, and supplies to and from offshore platforms. The ongoing exploration and extraction activities in offshore fields, coupled with the need for maintenance and support services, drive the demand for these specialized vessels. The consumption volume reflects the sector’s reliance on offshore support vessels to ensure operational efficiency and safety in harsh maritime environments.
The Offshore Wind sector is anticipated to consume 105 units of offshore support vessels in 2025. This application area is gaining momentum as offshore wind energy becomes increasingly significant in the global shift towards renewable energy sources. These vessels play a critical role in the construction, maintenance, and servicing of offshore wind farms. They are equipped to handle the unique challenges of working in offshore wind environments, including the transportation of technicians and specialized equipment. The growth in offshore wind installations is directly influencing the demand for these vessels, making the Offshore Wind sector a key driver of market growth.
The Military application is expected to consume 72 units of offshore support vessels in 2025. These vessels are integral to naval operations, providing logistical support, surveillance, and patrol capabilities. They are designed to meet the rigorous demands of military missions, offering versatility and reliability in a variety of maritime conditions. The consumption volume in this sector is driven by the need for robust and well-equipped vessels that can perform under the stress of military operations. The Military’s use of offshore support vessels underscores their strategic importance in ensuring maritime security and operational effectiveness.
Table Global Offshore Support Vessels Consumption by Application in 2025
|
Application |
Consumption (Units) |
|---|---|
|
Oil & Gas |
208 |
|
Offshore Wind |
105 |
|
Military |
72 |
6 Global Offshore Support Vessels Market Analysis by Region
According to the forecast, the total global market value for offshore support vessels in 2025 is projected to be approximately USD 8,088.4 million. Here is a breakdown of the market values by region:
United States: The U.S. market is expected to reach USD 1,259.4 million in 2025, marking it as one of the significant contributors to the global market.
Europe: Europe is projected to be the largest regional market by value, with an expected market size of USD 2,107.8 million in 2025. This region’s strong performance is driven by its robust maritime industry and significant investments in offshore wind energy.
Southeast Asia: This region is expected to have a market value of USD 1,233.3 million, driven by its strategic location and growing offshore oil and gas sector.
Europe emerges as the largest market by value in 2025, with an expected market size of USD 2,107.8 million. This dominance can be attributed to Europe’s strong maritime tradition, significant investments in offshore wind energy, and a robust maritime infrastructure that supports a wide range of offshore activities. The region’s commitment to sustainable energy sources and its strategic location make it a hub for offshore support vessels, driving the demand for advanced and specialized vessels.
While Europe leads in terms of market value, the region of Southeast Asia shows significant potential for growth. With a projected market value of USD 1,233.3 million in 2025, Southeast Asia’s growth is driven by its strategic location in the global maritime trade routes and its burgeoning offshore oil and gas sector. Additionally, the increasing focus on renewable energy, particularly offshore wind, in countries like Vietnam and the Philippines, is expected to boost the demand for offshore support vessels. The region’s economic growth and infrastructure development further contribute to the expanding market for offshore support vessels.
Figure Global Offshore Support Vessels Revenue (M USD) by Region in 2025
7 Global Offshore Support Vessels Market: Top 3 Companies Analysis
7.1 DSME (Daehan Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering)
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
DSME, established in 1973, is a leading global shipbuilder based in South Korea. The company specializes in the construction of specialized ships, including offshore support vessels, and has a strong reputation for its innovative designs and high-quality products. DSME serves major oil companies and is known for its expertise in building various vessels such as offshore platforms, drilling rigs, floating oil production units, submarines, and destroyers. The company also specializes in liquefied natural gas carriers and oil rigs, showcasing its diverse capabilities in the maritime industry.
Products Offered:
DSME offers a comprehensive range of offshore support vessels designed for various applications in the maritime sector. Their product line includes:
Wind Power Plant Installation Vessels: These vessels are equipped with advanced technologies to facilitate the installation of offshore wind turbines. They are designed to operate in harsh sea conditions and are capable of handling large and heavy components associated with wind farm construction.
Heavy Lift Vessels: DSME’s heavy lift vessels are designed to transport and install large structures and equipment in offshore locations. These vessels feature large cranes and spacious decks to accommodate heavy loads, making them ideal for offshore construction projects.
Pipe Laying Vessels: These vessels are specifically designed for the installation of pipelines in offshore oil and gas fields. They are equipped with advanced pipe-laying systems that ensure efficient and safe pipeline installation in deep waters.
Oil & Gas Production Facilities and Drilling Rigs: DSME is renowned for its expertise in building oil and gas production facilities and drilling rigs. These structures are engineered to withstand the challenging conditions of the open sea and are designed for optimal performance and safety.
Allseas Pioneering Spirit Vessel: A notable product from DSME is the Allseas Pioneering Spirit Vessel, the world’s largest OSV. This vessel, delivered in 2014, is capable of lifting approximately 50,000 MT of offshore modules, setting new standards in the field of offshore support vessels.
7.2 Ulstein Group ASA
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Ulstein Group ASA, founded in 1917, is a Norwegian company known for its excellence in shipbuilding and ship design. The company operates a group of businesses focused on marine-related industries, with a primary focus on ship construction and design. Ulstein Group ASA has a strong presence in Europe and Asia, where it supplies offshore support, construction, supply, and research ships.
Products Offered:
Ulstein Group ASA offers a variety of offshore support vessels, including:
Platform Supply Vessels (PSV): Their PSV range includes smaller to medium-sized vessels and larger multipurpose PSVs designed for efficient supply and support operations worldwide. These vessels are known for their excellent operability under harsh weather conditions, offering optimum cargo capacity, low noise levels, low fuel consumption, high transit speed, and optimum sea-keeping capabilities.
Construction Support Vessels: These vessels are designed to support construction activities in the offshore sector. They are equipped with features that facilitate the transportation and installation of heavy equipment and structures in offshore locations.
Research Vessels: Ulstein Group ASA also constructs research vessels that are used for marine research and exploration. These vessels are equipped with advanced research facilities and are designed to operate in various maritime environments.
Specialized Vessels: The company designs and builds specialized vessels tailored to specific client needs. These may include vessels for subsea operations, offshore wind farm support, and other niche applications in the offshore industry.
7.3 Damen Shipyards
Company Introduction and Business Overview:
Damen Shipyards, established in 1927, is a Dutch company that aims to be a global market leader in niche markets of shipbuilding, ship repair & conversion, and the delivery of components and related services. The company designs and builds innovative ships of excellent quality, supported by a worldwide network of sales and services, including maintenance and repair & conversion facilities. Damen Shipyards operates mainly in Europe and has a significant presence in EMEA and North America.
Products Offered:
Damen Shipyards offers a diverse range of offshore support vessels, including:
Offshore Support Tug 5515: This vessel is developed for a wide range of offshore activities. It features a large deck area, safe working areas, and spacious accommodation for crew and boarding parties. The vessel is designed with a large bollard pull for its size, making it a powerful tool that is also very maneuverable.
Service Operation Vessels (SOV): Damen’s SOVs are designed for wind farm maintenance and other offshore operations. They are equipped with advanced features such as heave-compensated gangways and cranes for efficient access to and from offshore structures.
Multipurpose Vessels: These vessels are designed to perform multiple roles in the offshore sector, including transportation of personnel and equipment, supply operations, and support for offshore construction projects.
Custom Vessels: Damen Shipyards also offers custom vessel solutions tailored to specific client requirements. This could include vessels for specialized tasks such as subsea intervention, cable laying, or dynamic positioning support.