Norwegian offshore vessel operators Ostensjo Group and Simon Mokster Shipping are joining forces to expand crewing and ship management company Mercator Crewing.

Ostensjo said compatriot Mokster has bought a 20% stake in Mercator, leaving Ostensjo with 50%. The remaining 30% is owned by management.

Mercator is a crew agency and ship manager with more than 350 seafarers on its books.