CH Offshore files lawsuit against subsidiaries of PDVSA

The pair of anchor handling tug supply (AHTS) vessels involved are the 2007-built, 12,240 bhp Amethyst and the 2007-built, 12,240 bhp Turquoise.

CH Offshore said it is seeking to recoup the unpaid charter fees from PDV Marina and Astilleros De Venezuela, via a legal proceeding lodged in London.

“The company had arrested vessels belonging to PDV Marina as security for its claim. PDV Marina has made payment of $70m into court as security for the company's claim including interest and costs. Accordingly, the company has released PDV Marina's vessel,” CH Offshore said in a statement.

In September, Singapore-listed CH Offshore has secured fresh three-year bareboat charters for the two AHTS vessels, with purchase option at the end of the chartering period.