Reach Subsea has marked a significant milestone in the development of uncrewed marine technology, with Reach Remote 1 completing her maiden port call at the Port of Aberdeen this week — a world first for a Norwegian flagged uncrewed vessel, remotely controlled from Norway, calling into a UK port.
The achievement follows approval from the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) permitting Reach Remote 1 to operate in UK waters whilst being controlled from Reach Subsea's operations centre in Norway. The vessel is purpose built for subsea operations, offering clients a fully uncrewed alternative to traditional crewed vessels.
The Port of Aberdeen played a pivotal role in making the port call possible. Bob Sanguinetti, CEO of Port of Aberdeen, said: "Uncrewed vessels are a great example of innovation pushing the boundaries of the maritime industry. We were delighted to support the 'RR1' port call at short notice, thanks to a positive approach from the port team and close working with Reach Subsea to make it happen safely."
Alastair McKie, Managing Director of Reach Subsea UK, said: "This is about more than one vessel arriving in port. It is proof that uncrewed, remotely operated subsea vessel operations are commercially real and operationally ready in UK waters right now. The North Sea has always rewarded those who can deliver - and Reach Remote 1 is delivering."
With MCA approval secured and the first UK port call now on record, Reach Subsea is positioned to offer North Sea operators an unrivalled uncrewed subsea capability - backed by proven technology, cross-border operational expertise, and a growing fleet.