Last Updated on February 8, 2024 by PALFINGER
2023 was an exceptional year for PALFINGER MARINE on many levels, not least due to the amazing commitment of all our employees, partners, and customers. There are so many milestones to share, but we figured it would be more interesting to obtain a personal, in-depth view of 2023 from someone who experienced our continued success firsthand on the sales front.
Sverre Mowinckel-Nilsen
To discuss the year that has passed – and look ahead to the year to come – from a unique PALFINGER MARINE perspective, we sit down with Sverre Mowinckel-Nilsen, Head of Global Sales Solutions Management, who is excited to share an amazing achievement straight away: “A record-breaking order intake in 2023 not only secured our order book for 2024, but it also contributed to a very healthy outlook for 2025. This is, as always, the result of excellent teamwork both internally and on the customer-side.”
Milestone Contracts Secured
When asked to provide more details, Sverre adds: “New lifeboat and davit contracts with Meyer Turku and Chantiers de l’Atlantique mean that we will continue to act as their supplier for cruise vessels currently under construction at their respective yards.” These contracts involve the MPC 49 lifeboat, the largest of its kind and capable of accommodating 440 passengers. They will be delivered to both customers in tandem with PD 55 davits. In terms of the contract with Chantiers de l’Atlantique, PALFINGER MARINE also managed to secure a significant order for our most advanced CTL 57 tender boats and accompanying davits.
Visualization of our jib crane designed for remote operation
On the product innovation front, Sverre highlights the further advancement of an exciting frame agreement with Aker BP for the development and delivery of fully electric cranes for the Yggdrasil and Valhall oil fields. He explains with more than a hint of pride in his voice:
These cranes are designed for remote operation from an onshore location. Upon delivery, they will be the most advanced cranes ever installed on offshore platforms.
Growth Challenges Met and Mastered
One of the challenges of 2023 involved the introduction of a new tax regime in the Norwegian aquaculture industry. “However, this didn’t stop us from retaining our position as market leader for cranes in this segment” Sverre points out. Speaking of potential, offshore wind has become a very important and growing segment for PALFINGER MARINE. “Our 2023 order intake in this field increased significantly, especially in terms of cranes for wind turbines.
Outlook for 2024
Offshore Passenger Transfer System on a CTV
Looking forward to 2024, Sverre has already earmarked a milestone he is really looking forward to: “I personally can’t wait to launch our first Offshore Passenger Transfer System (OPTS) unit as an attractive alternative to large, more complex gangway systems in the offshore wind segment.” This new, fully 3D-compensated product constitutes a new approach to transfer both personnel and cargo based on a highly cost-effective solution. It is designed for the safe and efficient transfer between a moving object and offshore structures such as wind turbines or drilling platforms.
As a global supplier with a global focus, PALFINGER MARINE will pursue growth in all markets and regions throughout 2024. Our declared aim is to extend the growth momentum of 2023 into this year in close collaboration with our customers, partners, and dedicated employees. We can’t wait to move forward together.