JBR advises on transfer of 15 workboats and Dubai office to Jifmar Group
France-headquartered Jifmar Group has completed the acquisition of 15 workboats from Seacontractors, marking a significant step in the group’s expansion across the Middle East and Indian Ocean region.
Announced in August, the transaction has been presented as a strategic win for both companies. For Netherlands-based Seacontractors, the sale allows the company to focus on its Anchor Handling Tug Supply (AHTS) operations in the 70–200-ton bollard pull range, strengthening its expertise in deep-sea anchor handling, towage, and specialised offshore projects.
For the buyer, Jifmar Group, the fleet expansion strengthens its core business – the company is a global operator of shallow-draft workboats delivering services to the nearshore energy and coastal infrastructure industries. With this acquisition, Jifmar Group now operates a fleet of 84 vessels, including 26 units positioned in the Middle East and Indian Ocean.
The transaction between the parties includes a six-month transfer services agreement under which Seacontractors will continue to support fleet operations, ensuring continuity for clients and a seamless handover of ongoing projects. The team within the Dubai office and the seafaring crew assigned to the fleet will transfer to Jifmar Group.
“This closing marks a new chapter for Jifmar Group. By integrating this fleet and its experienced crews, we are scaling up our operational presence in key regions and reinforcing our ability to support clients with reliable, versatile and efficient assets. Our ambition is to continue setting the reference standard for workboat performance worldwide,” said Jean-Michel Berud, CEO of Jifmar Group.
The sell-side dealmaker
Terms of the transaction have not been disclosed. Seacontractors was advised during the sale process by JBR, a Dutch consultancy firm that has been involved with several maritime deals in the region and last month established an office in Dubai.
“It’s great to see this transaction now officially closed. We’re proud to have advised Seacontractors on the transfer of their workboat fleet to Jifmar Group. A smooth and constructive process with strong teamwork on all sides,” said Rick ter Maat, Partner and Head of Maritime & Offshore at JBR. “This deal adds to our credentials in the maritime sector and underscores our position as a trusted advisor in the industry.”
According to Ronald van Rijn, Managing Partner at JBR, the Jifmar Group–Seacontractors deal highlights the GCC’s growing influence in global maritime and energy markets. “Many of our clients are turning their focus to the Middle East.”
