Rem Offshore has agreed to merge with rival Solstad Offshore, marking the first big step towards consolidation in the distressed offshore vessel market.

Following 10 days of heated debate between the two companies and Solstad’s new shareholder Aker, a tie-up is expected to be completed in early December.

Solstad and Rem have agreed to combine through a wholly-owned subsidiary of Solstad, which will be the surviving company.

Lars