THE BRAZILIAN ASSOCIATION OF
OFFSHORE SUPPORT COMPANIES

Established on April 4th 1977 ABEAM ‘s main objective is to contribute to the development of brazilian Offshore Support activities related to hydrocarbon and mineral exploration and production in the Brazilian continental shelf.

Offshore Support activities in Brazil have been growing along the years and is currently in full bloom.

With the new Brazilian oil policy enabling contracts with foreign companies for the exploration of new oil fields in the continental shelf, besides Petrobras, other companies recently established in Brazil have been boosting their activities significantly increasing the demand for Offshore Support equipment and vessels.

ABEAM member companies are qualified to operate all classes of Offshore Support vessels.

THE OFFSHORE SUPPORT IN BRAZIL

The development of Offshore Support activities in Brazil presented several development stages:

Initial Stage – 1968 to 1975 – This is the time when the first oil findings offshore occurred. Petrobras imports its first 13 vessels.

Development – 1976 to 1981 – Brazilian fleet totals 44 vessels. Petrobras transfers to Brazilian navigation companies support boat fleet operations.
On April 4th, 1997, ABEAM is established bringing together Brazilian the pioneers companies in the industry.

Consolidation – 1982 to 1989 – Operation of the first semi-submersible platforms. Contracts are awarded by tender bids to Brazilian shipbuilders. Brazilian Offshore Support boat fleet adds up to 110 vessels.

Break up - 1990 to 1997 – A poorly regulated market adversely affects shipbuilding and navigation industries. Foreign companies take over the market. Loss of technology, jobs and funds sent abroad. The fleet of Brazilian flag support boats comes down to 43 vessels.

New Perspectives – Since 1977 – With the enactment of Law # 9432/97 providing on waterway transportation, through ABEAM Brazilian Offshore Support companies submit a fleet modernization program involving local construction of vessels appropriate to deep and ultra-deep water operation.

The program has been successfully implemented enabling the enlargement of the Brazilian fleet by adding new vessels equipped with modern equipment and facilities, meeting market requirements.