The Pepper will begin work with a national oil company in the MENA region right after its delivery in the first quarter of 2015.

The agreement will initially last for three years, with a two-year option.

GMS said the day rate of the deal is in line with that previously indicated for this type of vessel in the region.

Duncan Anderson, the company’s chief executive, said: “It is pleasing to have secured this first long-term contract for Pepper in the MENA region, where demand for our self-elevating support vessels is excellent.

“We