Offshore Service Vessel (OSV)

An Offshore Service Vessel (OSV) is a ship built to support offshore oil, gas, and wind operations, a class that includes platform supply vessels, anchor-handling tug supply vessels, and standby and construction vessels. Its navigation profile differs from a deep-sea trader: close-quarters work at the platform’s 500-meter safety zone, prolonged station-keeping by dynamic positioning, frequent transits in field traffic, and work in the splash zone alongside the installation. The IMO codifies the type in the OSV Code and the related guidelines for OSVs carrying limited hazardous cargo, with crew DP and field-specific competence under STCW. Bridge watchkeeping on an OSV blends standard navigation with DP-desk operation and constant radio coordination with the installation.