Key Considerations When Hiring Marine Vessels for Remote Location Projects
Working in remote locations challenges any business, and this is especially true for sea-based enterprises. Whether your work involves environmental management or hydrographic surveys, the success of operations hinges heavily on the right equipment and support. So, today, we’ll break down the essential considerations for hiring marine vessels for use in far-off areas.
Evaluating Site Accessibility and Logistics
The first thing to assess is how easily the remote project site can be accessed. In contrast to urban settings, rural regions typically have limited infrastructure. Evaluate if it’s feasible to transport the hired vessels—by road, sea, or air—to the remote site. You must also determine if additional equipment, like trailers or barges, is required for the transport or the project itself.
For instance, Boab Commercial Marine offers a fleet that includes trailerable boats. These can be rapidly deployed even in the most challenging environments, making them suitable for projects in areas with limited port facilities or difficult terrain.
Matching Vessel Capabilities to Project Requirements
Not all marine vessels are suitable for all jobs, particularly in extreme or remote environments. It is vital to match the vessel type to the specific needs of your remote project.
For example, to move heavy plant or equipment, you may need crane-access workboats or flat-top barges. If you need to conduct hydrographic surveys or environmental monitoring operations, smaller, specialist equipment vessels may be more appropriate.
Also, consider the vessel’s power potential, range, and resilience. Refuelling or recharging stations may not be accessible in isolated areas. Hiring boats, barges, and other marine vessels that can travel far without support is highly beneficial.
Ensuring Compliance and Safety in Remote Operations
Working in isolated waters is commonly subject to strict regulatory compliance, especially while engaging in government or large commercial works. Safety remains an even more significant priority due to the low density of emergency response services.
Collaborating with a supplier who is aware of local compliance and can provide fully-certified vessels is essential. That’s something you can count on when you partner with us. We ensure all Boab vessels are meticulously maintained to exceed compliance standards.
Setting the Budget and Exploring Financing Options
Budget is always of concern to any project, especially when it requires high-quality vessels in inaccessible locations. Transportation costs, manpower, and the hiring period will significantly impact the overall costs. So, evaluate if hiring is truly the best option for your remote project.
If your company or organisation is considering long-term asset acquisition rather than purely hiring, it’s worth exploring different financing options. For instance, you can leverage your Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) to acquire specific business assets, such as marine vessels, which can then be leased back to the commercial operation. This can involve using an SMSF loan (a Limited Recourse Borrowing Arrangement) to facilitate the purchase of necessary equipment that supports repeat remote projects. But be wary of this financing option. You need expert advice to ensure your SMSF purchase complies with superannuation regulations.
Choosing a Partner for Remote Marine Projects
Hiring marine vessels for remote locations is more than just about access to equipment—it also takes choosing a partner that understands the complexities of such projects. From logistical planning and vessel selection to compliance and support services, Boab Commercial Marine offers tailored solutions to meet the needs of businesses operating in challenging environments.
Our team works closely with clients to deliver reliable, compliant, and cost-effective vessel hire services, no matter how remote the location. Whether your project involves marine infrastructure development or surveying, we are committed to ensuring your success with our versatile fleet and professional expertise.
Contact us today to discuss your next remote marine project and discover how we can help you achieve your goals with confidence and efficiency.
