An Aberdeen maritime services firm has celebrated its anniversary by releasing two new vessels – the largest in the company’s 80 year history.
Grampian Sceptre and Grampian Sovereign, worth £50million and leased to Talisman Energy, are the latest addition to Craig Group’s 21-vessel-strong fleet.
They form part of the company’s modernisation programme for the emergency response and rescue fleet, which also foresees six more vessels between 2014-2016 at a £70million investment.
“It’s special because it’s our 80th year; it’s also special because we had a delivery of our two new vessels which are the largest we’ve ever built,” said Douglas Craig, chairman and managing director of Craig Group.
The company, with a yearly turnover of more than £110million from its three divisions: safety services, procurement and leisure, has been under single ownership throughout its lifetime – now in transition from third to fourth generation of the Craig family.
“My father died a few years ago and he was very enthusiastic and inspired his grandchildren,” Craig said.
Samantha Craig, the company’s corporate communications manager and the eldest of her siblings, said the future focus of the firm will remain on the maritime services it provides, although it aims to expand to international markets.
“The marine industry is the core of our business. I was lucky enough to work with my grandfather who was a skipper at sea, so I think it’s very important to retain that, going forward,” she said.
You can watch our interviews with Douglas and Samantha Craig, as well as the vessel’s manager and master below.
Recommended for you
