Offshore Supply Vessel (OSV)
An Offshore Supply Vessel (OSV) is a specialised ship that supports offshore oil, gas and increasingly wind operations — servicing platforms, rigs, and installations far out at sea. OSVs carry cargo, equipment, fuel, water, drilling fluids and supplies out to offshore units on their large open aft decks and in below-deck tanks, and return waste and equipment to shore.
The category includes distinct types: the PSV (Platform Supply Vessel), focused on carrying supplies to and from installations; the AHTS (Anchor Handling Tug Supply) vessel, which also tows and positions rigs and handles their anchors; plus crew boats, and construction and subsea-support vessels. OSVs feature dynamic positioning (DP) to hold station precisely alongside platforms in open sea. They are the maritime lifeline of the offshore energy industry, and a major sector in regions like the North Sea, Gulf of Mexico, West Africa and the Middle East. The growth of offshore wind is opening new demand for these versatile workboats.
Offshore platforms and wind farms can't function without a supply line, and OSVs are it — carrying everything from fuel to anchors, holding station with dynamic positioning in open sea. They are the lifeline of offshore energy, a major fleet in every offshore basin, and a growth sector as offshore wind expands.
What is the difference between a PSV and an AHTS?
A PSV (Platform Supply Vessel) carries supplies to installations; an AHTS (Anchor Handling Tug Supply) also tows and positions rigs and handles anchors.
What is dynamic positioning?
A system using thrusters to hold the vessel precisely on station in open sea, essential for working alongside offshore platforms.