CGGVeritas has launched the Oceanic Vega seismic vessel at a naming ceremony held at the Ulstein Verft shipyard in Norway. The Oceanic Vega is the first of a new generation of Ulstein SX120 high-end, environmentally friendly vessels and the first of two X-BOW® vessels commissioned by CGGVeritas, the Oceanic Sirius being due for launch in the fall of 2011.

The Oceanic Vega is purpose-designed to deploy a maximum of 20 Sercel Sentinel® solid streamers with Nautilus® 3-in-1 integrated streamer control devices and is ideally suited for the acquisition of large 3D, 4D and high-resolution projects. The vessel offers the high bollard pull required for towing large spreads for increasing acquisition density as well as reducing the acquisition to first data cycle time.

The revolutionary design of the vessel diminishes slamming of the bow which reduces variations in speed, lowers turbulence in the wake zone and significantly decreases noise, ultimately leading to the acquisition of clearer seismic data.

The vessel is ideal for BroadSeisTM acquisition, the innovative new CGGVeritas broadband marine solution and, as an Ice Class vessel, can work in Arctic waters.

The Oceanic Vega has a range of features that make her the industry-leader in minimizing environmental impact, including engines compatible with low-emission fuel and a 'green passport.' In recognition of her low environmental impact status, the vessel has been awarded a DNV 'Clean Design' class certification.

Leon Chabannes, Senior Vice President, Marine Acquisition, CGGVeritas, said, "The Oceanic Vega is an impressive addition to the CGGVeritas seismic fleet and will continue to advance our ability to provide safer, quieter and better marine acquisition. This new flagship combines unmatched efficiency and revolutionary technology to deliver the highest quality seismic data with the highest green credentials, essential for meeting the challenges of today as well as for many years into the future."

Tags: CGGVeritas