MARCH 19, 2013 — Today must be "exercise an option day" at U.S. shipyards. Bouchard Transportation is reported to have exercised its option for a second 250,000 barrel ATB unit from VT Halter Marine. When the order for the first unit was announced last month (see earlier story) it was reported that the option must be exercised within 60 days. Clearly Bouchard didn't need that long.
Earlier today came word that Jackson Offshore Operators had exercised its option for two more PSVs from BAE Jacksonville. There are a few more operators with options at various yards. Which will be the next to take the plunge?