KOTUG International has acquired a majority stake in Vortex Offshore, a Dubai-based maritime services company operating 11 vessels in the Middle East, with another four vessels under construction.
The transaction expands KOTUG‘s offshore support, towage and marine transportation capabilities in the region. The exact ownership percentage and financial terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed.
Vortex Offshore operates a fleet comprising anchor-handling tug supply (AHTS) vessels, terminal and support tugs, heavy-lift vessels and crew boats. These vessels support offshore energy developments, marine transportation and associated maritime operations across the Middle East.
The acquisition extends KOTUG‘s existing regional activities, which include subsea services, vessel management and marine operations conducted through its Dubai office.
Under the acquisition agreement, Vortex Offshore will retain its established brand and management team. Its local customer relationships and operational experience will complement KOTUG‘s international maritime network.
Ard-Jan Kooren, President and CEO of KOTUG International, said the acquisition forms part of the company’s long-term growth strategy and will expand its regional fleet and service capabilities.
Edwin Westerhof, Managing Director of Vortex Offshore, said the partnership would provide access to KOTUG‘s international resources while preserving the local expertise and business relationships developed by the Dubai-based company.
The transaction also reflects ongoing offshore support vessel consolidation, as operators seek to increase their operational scale and broaden their service offerings.
With the addition of Vortex Offshore, KOTUG plans to strengthen its support for offshore energy and marine transportation customers in the Middle East and Africa, while retaining opportunities for wider international deployment.
