#Sweden #Gothenburg #MacGregor #Horizon Gangway #Personnel Transfer

MacGregor's Innovative Horizon Gangway

MacGregor, a leader in maritime solutions, recently announced an exciting advancement in offshore operations with their Horizon gangway. This innovative system has now received DNV certification for floating-to-floating (F2F) personnel transfer, a significant leap for the marine and offshore industries. This capability enables seamless movement of crew members between two floating vessels at sea without the need for fixed landing points or the constraints associated with port schedules.

Revolutionizing Offshore Operations

Traditionally, crew changes and service campaigns required vessels to return to port or utilize fixed structures for transfers. However, with the newly certified Horizon gangway, operators of Floating Production Storage and Offloading units (FPSOs), floating wind arrays, and other offshore service fleets can conduct crew changes directly at sea. This flexibility not only optimizes operational efficiency but also allows for a dynamic response to the ever-changing schedules typical of offshore environments.

At the heart of this solution is a specially designed flap at the gangway's tip, which replaces conventional docking heads used for fixed landings. By integrating LiDAR technology, the gangway’s motion compensation system can track and adjust to the relative movements of both vessels in real-time, ensuring a safe and controlled connection, even in challenging sea conditions.

Key Benefits of F2F Personnel Transfer

According to Prateek Sadhana, MacGregor’s Product Owner for Walk-to-Work Gangways, this new capability introduces flexible crewing models for FPSOs and floating operations. “Crew changes can now occur at sea, while service operations no longer need to be structured around port visits,” he stated. This innovation is particularly advantageous in the renewable energy sector, where operations often occur without reliable docking facilities.

Moreover, the F2F capability is delivered as an extension to the existing Horizon gangway family, meaning it can be retrofitted to existing units currently in operation. Operators already familiar with the Horizon platform can upgrade without needing extensive retraining or separate qualification processes, simplifying the transition to this advanced technology.

The Importance of Certification

Technical certification, as highlighted by Sadhana, holds significant commercial implications. It provides vessel owners, charters, and insurers with independently verified assurance that the equipment is fit for the specific purpose of vessel-to-vessel operations. This assurance boosts confidence among crews who rely on these systems for safe transportation across moving vessels.

MacGregor at ONS 2026

To further demonstrate their commitment to innovation, MacGregor will showcase the F2F capability at the ONS 2026 event in Stavanger from August 24th to 27th. Attendees can visit Hall 5, Stand 5540 for hands-on demonstrations and to learn more about how this technology can transform offshore operations.

About MacGregor

MacGregor is dedicated to enabling sustainable maritime operations worldwide by maximizing efficiency in cargo and load handling. With decades of expertise and a robust portfolio of innovative technologies and services, they are committed to enhancing safety and reducing the environmental impact of maritime activities. In 2025, the company recorded sales of approximately EUR 830 million and operates in 30 countries, employing around 2,000 people.

For more information about the innovative Horizon gangway and MacGregor's extensive offerings, visit their website at www.macgregor.com.