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Offshore Seismic Activity Sees Surge as Energy Demand Fuels Exploration
At SA Operations, we closely follow developments shaping offshore energy landscapes—and seismic surveys are again taking center stage. As global energy demands surge and production companies ramp up offshore investments, seismic vessel operators are seeing new waves of activity and opportunity.
According to reports from Oslo, Norway, seismic survey companies like TGS are experiencing year-on-year improvements in vessel utilization and revenues. TGS, a major player in the field, recently secured a contract for a shallow-water 3D survey off the coast of Trinidad using ocean-bottom nodes (OBNs). The 80-day campaign will begin in July 2025, showcasing the growing demand for detailed subsurface imaging in producing fields.
TGS’s CEO, Kristian Johansen, emphasized the strategic value of this contract, noting how OBN technology enables their clients to tap into production budgets and asset optimization goals. TGS reported that 73% of its fleet operating days in Q1 2025 were already allocated to contracts or multi-client work—a clear sign of robust market activity.
TGS has also launched a new multi-client, long-offset OBN project covering 1,100 square kilometers in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. Utilizing their Gemini enhanced frequency source, the project aims to improve subsalt imaging in complex geological zones like Mississippi Canyon and Ewing Banks. These efforts not only boost seismic accuracy but also help clients make better-informed exploration decisions, especially in mature basins.
Meanwhile, Electromagnetic Geoservices (EMGS) mobilized its survey vessel Atlantic Guardian from the North Sea to India for a controlled-source electromagnetic survey. This contract is valued at $10 million and is expected to keep the boat engaged through most of Q2 2025. It exemplifies how companies are shifting resources globally to meet rising offshore exploration needs.
Shearwater Geoservices also secured a groundbreaking three-year marine seismic capacity agreement with TotalEnergies. The deal, which ensures 18 months of vessel activity, reinforces the trend of long-term planning and partnership between operators and service providers. Irene Waage Basili, CEO of Shearwater, called the agreement “a strategic step” that offers operational visibility and potential for expanded collaboration.
SeaBird Exploration and Energy Drilling have announced plans to merge into SED Energy Holdings in a significant industry shake-up. If approved by shareholders, this move will create an integrated contractor with strong market positions in both seismic and drilling operations. As Energy Drilling’s chairman Alf Thorkildsen put it, the merger brings together “two complementary businesses” focused on growth and shareholder value.
For offshore recruitment and crewing professionals, these developments signal increased demand for specialized seismic crews, subsea support roles, and vessel operations staff. At SA Operations, we anticipate a corresponding uptick in project requests across geophysical surveys, IRM, and positioning/navigation support.
The return of high vessel utilization rates, coupled with long-term contracts and ambitious offshore campaigns, is a welcome sign of revitalization in the offshore survey sector. For companies poised to deliver top-tier talent and logistics, this marks a prime moment to support and scale with industry needs.
At SA Operations, we remain ready—24/7—to provide specialized recruitment and crewing solutions that match the pace and precision these seismic projects demand.
About SA
SA Operations specializes in recruiting highly skilled professionals for offshore and onshore projects in the Oil & Gas, Renewables, and Maritime industries. Offering comprehensive recruitment, head-hunting, and payroll solutions, the company delivers specialized talent for projects ranging from subsea operations to renewable energy development. SA Operations is committed to providing industry-leading solutions and ensuring seamless project execution for clients across the globe.
Contact:
SA Stephenson Operations B.V.
Website: https://www.sa-world.com
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