News of Norway, issue 4, 1997
The Ulstein Group started its shipbuilding activities in 1917 with the establishment of a small mechanical workshop in Ulsteinvik on the west coast of Norway. The first steel vessels built by the Ulstein Group were ferries. Later, as the business grew, the Group also started designing other type of ships. Today a wide range of vessels of Ulstein design are being built worldwide. Different "competence centers" within the Ulstein Group specialize in all sections of the shipbuilding industry-from manufacturers of propulsion machinery, deck machinery and monitoring systems to experts in shipbuilding and maneuvering technology.
Different Types of Vessels
The Ulstein Group really owes much of its existence to the local fishing industry in Norway. The coastal population has always had a deep interest in fishing vessels and fishing gear. As the local fleet grew, ship repair and building yards prospered. Ulstein was established to take part in this market. Fishing vessels of all types have been designed by The Ulstein Group, whose expertise has been exported as far as Australia, Alaska and Africa.
Ulstein also designs dry cargo vessels, tugs, tankers, offshore vessels and high speed light craft. The company always has to keep in mind the different needs of the various types of ships when choosing their design. The basic purpose of the cargo vessels is to carry goods from one place to another in the most efficient manner and at the lowest possible price. The requirements for tugs are many and varied, ranging from the small-harbor tugs to large ocean-going vessels.
In order to build ships that will maintain their modern concept throughout their lifetime, Ulstein invests heavily in research and development. As a result, Ulstein-designed vessels are often recognized as trendsetters.
Today The Ulstein Group has branch offices in Spain, Denmark, Germany, India, Canada, Singapore, Korea, Malta, Scotland and the United States. New offices will soon be opened in Italy and Brazil.
Ulstein's North American locations include Kenner, Louisiana;Seattle, Washington; and Vancouver, British Columbia. Among its major customers are the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Navy.
For information
Ulstein USA Inc.
3425 16th Avenue West
Seattle, WA 98119
Phone: 206-281-7388
Fax: 206-284-1710