The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) of Egypt has expanded its petroleum services fleet with the addition of a new multi-purpose supply vessel, Fakhr 1, marking the fourth vessel in its active operational lineup. The vessel is owned by a consortium comprising SCA affiliate Timsah Shipbuilding, Canal Mooring and Lights, and Suez Canal Rope, supporting the Authority’s broader offshore and marine services capabilities.
The Fakhr 1 measures 64.8 metres in length, with a beam of 16 metres, a draught of 5.4 metres, and a moulded depth of 6.8 metres. It has a deadweight of 2,112 tonnes, a gross tonnage of 2,194, and accommodation capacity for up to 60 crew members, offering a compact design suitable for regional operations alongside a range of offshore support functions.
Cargo loading flexibility coupled with emergency response capability
The spacious aft deck can be used for the transport of assorted payloads while liquid cargo such as water and oil are stored in dedicated onboard tanks.
The vessel is fully equipped to support diving operations and operates with a DP2 system, enabling precise station-keeping without the need for anchoring. Port and starboard water monitors are fitted on the wheelhouse roof for firefighting use.
The wheelhouse itself provides 360 degrees of visibility to permit the crew to directly oversee operations on the aft deck for greater safety.
Optimised for Middle East waters
Fakhr 1 was built by China’s Ningde Tai Jinzhou Yuanjin Shipbuilding in compliance with Tuvalu flag and American Bureau of Shipping class requirements including those under the FFV 1, ROV capable and unrestricted service notations.
The vessel will support the activities of SCA and its affiliates in duties such as oil and gas field support, subsea inspection, maintenance and repair, and seismic surveys in the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.
Robban Assafina is now on WhatsApp channel. Click Here
