An OSV is a specialized vessel supporting offshore oil and gas operations, rather than carrying cargo between commercial ports in the traditional merchant navy sense.
Common OSV Types
- PSV (Platform Supply Vessel) — delivers supplies, equipment, and personnel to offshore platforms and rigs
- AHTS (Anchor Handling Tug Supply) — handles rig anchors and towing operations, combined with supply capability
- Standby/rescue vessels — maintain safety presence near offshore installations for emergency response
- MPSV (Multi-Purpose Support Vessel) — combines several offshore support functions
Key Skill: Dynamic Positioning (DP)
Many OSVs require officers holding Dynamic Positioning (DP) certification — a specialized skill in using computer-controlled thrusters to automatically maintain a vessel’s position without anchoring, essential for close-quarters work near offshore platforms.
Why OSV Careers Appeal to Some Seafarers
OSV work often involves shorter, more frequent contracts than deep-sea merchant shipping, and DP-certified officers can command premium pay given the specialized skill requirement.
Exam Relevance
Standard deck/engine officer certificates (CoC) remain the base qualification; DP certification is a separate, additional specialization pursued after gaining standard officer credentials.