The marine surveying industry in Europe plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of marine operations. Companies in this sector provide essential services such as inspection, certification, and environmental assessments to a range of stakeholders, including shipping firms, marine construction projects, and energy companies. With fierce competition and increasing regulatory scrutiny, marine surveyors are leveraging advanced technologies like drones and satellite monitoring to enhance precision and efficiency. As the focus on environmental sustainability grows, innovation and adaptation will be key driving forces shaping the future of the marine surveying industry in Europe, opening doors for all kinds of partnerships.


This article showcases 14 prominent investors from Europe in the marine surveying sector, which includes a mix of corporate giants, venture capital firms, and private equity entities. Spanning various countries from Switzerland to Norway, these investors range in size from small teams to multinational corporations, with many boasting significant employee counts. Founded in different eras, they made a notable impact in 2024, executing numerous deals that focused on enhancing marine technologies and investing in the future of marine operations.


Top 14 Marine Surveying Investors in Europe


1. RSK Group

  • Website: rskgroup.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Helsby, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: rsk-group

RSK Group is a prominent environmental consultancy and engineering services company based in Helsby, England, founded in 1989. With over 10,000 employees, RSK provides a diverse range of services, including environmental assessments, engineering solutions, and sustainability consulting across various sectors such as energy, healthcare, and construction. Notably, RSK has made significant strides in the marine surveying sector by acquiring Brown & May Marine Ltd, a marine environmental consultancy with 35 years of experience, on December 12, 2022. This strategic acquisition enhances RSK's capabilities in marine environmental assessments, positioning them as a key player in the marine surveying industry. RSK's commitment to sustainability and environmental solutions further underscores their relevance in this sector, as they aim to help clients navigate environmental challenges effectively.


2. Sgs

  • Website: sgs.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
  • Founded year: 1878
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: sgs

SGS S.A. is a leading testing, inspection, and certification company founded in 1878 and headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. With a workforce of over 10,000 employees, SGS operates globally, providing independent services to ensure product quality and compliance across various industries. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including testing, inspection, certification, and training, aimed at helping clients meet regulatory standards and enhance operational efficiency. Notably, SGS has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its marine surveying capabilities, including the acquisition of Ecotecnos, a Chilean company specializing in sea monitoring and oceanography services, for CHF 2.5 million in May 2022. This move aligns with SGS's strategy to expand its Industries & Environment offerings, particularly in marine contexts. Additionally, SGS's diverse portfolio includes environmental and materials testing services, which can further support marine surveying activities.


3. Bureau Veritas SA


Bureau Veritas SA is a corporate investor based in Earls Colne, England, founded in 1828. It is a prominent testing and certification company that provides a wide range of services, including inspection, certification, and consulting across various industries such as construction, automotive, and food production. In the marine surveying context, Bureau Veritas has made significant strides, particularly with its acquisition of TMC Marine Ltd. in May 2016, which bolstered its Marine & Offshore business and enhanced its offerings in the marine insurance consultancy market. This acquisition, along with its ongoing commitment to compliance and quality assurance, positions Bureau Veritas as a key player in the marine surveying industry. The company has also engaged in various other acquisitions, such as Inspectorate and Maxxam Analytics, which, while not directly related to marine surveying, demonstrate its expansive growth strategy in the testing and certification sector.


4. Katapult

  • Website: katapult.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: katapult-accelerator

Katapult is an impact investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 2017. The firm specializes in supporting tech startups that tackle global challenges, particularly in climate-tech and ocean-tech sectors. Katapult provides investment, accelerator programs, and mentorship to early-stage companies. Notably, they have invested in several companies relevant to marine surveying, including ACUA Ocean, which focuses on ocean data collection, and Open Ocean Robotics, which develops autonomous marine vehicles. Additionally, they have supported Hullbot and Syrenna through grants, both of which are involved in marine technology innovations. These transactions highlight Katapult's commitment to fostering advancements in marine surveying and related technologies.


5. Scottish Enterprise


Scottish Enterprise is a public entity established in 1991, dedicated to fostering economic development in Scotland. With a workforce of 1001-5000, it offers a variety of services, including funding, business development advice, and support for innovation and exports. In 2024, Scottish Enterprise was involved in 55 investments, showcasing its active role in supporting businesses. Notably, it provided grant funding to Tymor Marine, a maritime technology firm, to enhance its draught survey technology through the development of a mobile app. This investment highlights Scottish Enterprise's commitment to advancing marine surveying technologies. Additionally, they participated in funding rounds for companies like Smart Green Shipping, further solidifying their involvement in the marine sector.


6. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a public entity and financial institution based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. It supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a range of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. Bpifrance aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation through coaching and partnerships, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. In 2024, Bpifrance has been actively involved in various funding rounds, including notable transactions in the marine sector. For instance, they participated in the seed round for AMPHITRITE, which raised $1,305,428, and they have been involved in multiple funding rounds for Unseenlabs, a company focused on satellite-based maritime monitoring, including a significant Series C round that raised €85 million. Additionally, they supported OceanWings, which raised $20,292,765 in a Series B round, further emphasizing their commitment to investing in marine technology and innovation.


7. Bgf

  • Website: bgf.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm founded in 2011, based in London, England. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses across the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in ROVOP, a UK-based subsea ROV services company, providing significant funding to enhance its fleet and support international expansion. They also invested in Sulmara, which operates in the marine sector, and Ocean Crest Marine, further demonstrating their commitment to the marine industry. Additionally, BGF's investment in RSK Group, which offers environmental and engineering services, showcases their broader interest in sectors that intersect with marine surveying.


8. Ldc

  • Website: ldc.co.uk
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: ldc

Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Limited, commonly known as LDC, is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. Notably, LDC has made significant investments in the marine surveying industry, including a recent acquisition of Idwal Marine Services, which aims to enhance its technology platform and expand its global service footprint. This investment reflects LDC's commitment to fostering long-term partnerships and driving business success in the marine sector. Other transactions include acquisitions in diverse industries, showcasing LDC's broad investment strategy while maintaining a focus on growth-oriented companies.


9. Agoranov

  • Website: agoranov.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2000
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 42
  • LinkedIn: agoranov

Agoranov is a corporate startup incubator based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2000. The firm specializes in supporting technology and science startups through personalized assistance, fully equipped facilities, and acceleration programs. With a focus on early-stage startups, Agoranov has been involved in various sectors, including those related to marine technology. Notable transactions include investments in Open Ocean, which is likely connected to marine applications, and Geosubsight, which may also have relevance to marine surveying. Their diverse portfolio and commitment to innovative sectors position them as a supportive entity for startups that could impact the marine surveying industry.


10. Maven Capital Partners

  • Website: mavencp.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: maven-cp

Maven Capital Partners is a private equity firm based in Glasgow, Scotland, founded in 2009. The firm specializes in providing growth capital and investment solutions to small and mid-sized businesses across various sectors, including technology and healthcare. Notably, Maven has made significant investments in the marine sector, such as acquiring a controlling stake in R&M Engineering for £5 million, reflecting their confidence in the North Sea market and supporting the company's growth in oil services. Additionally, Maven's involvement with Fletcher Shipping, which raised substantial funds in private equity rounds, highlights their engagement with maritime operations. These transactions demonstrate Maven's commitment to supporting businesses that operate within the marine and oil services industries, making them a relevant player in the marine surveying investment landscape.


11. Boskalis

  • Website: boskalis.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Papendrecht, South Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 1910
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: boskalis

Boskalis Westminster N.V. is a logistics and marine services company based in Papendrecht, South Holland, Netherlands, specializing in dredging and the maintenance of maritime infrastructure. Founded in 1910, Boskalis has grown to employ over 10,000 people and offers a wide range of services including coastal defense, land reclamation, and offshore energy support. The company has made significant investments in the marine surveying sector, including the acquisition of Horizon Geosciences in February 2019, which enhances its geotechnical capabilities. Additionally, the acquisition of Gardline Group in August 2017 for approximately £40 million allowed Boskalis to enter the offshore survey market, further solidifying its position in marine surveying. These strategic moves highlight Boskalis's focus on expanding its service offerings in the marine surveying industry, catering to clients such as port authorities and energy companies who rely on safe and efficient maritime operations.


12. HitecVision

  • Website: hitecvision.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stavanger, Rogaland, Norway
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: hitecvision

HitecVision is a private equity investment firm based in Stavanger, Rogaland, Norway, founded in 1985. The firm specializes in the European energy sector, focusing on providing institutional capital to energy production and infrastructure projects with an emphasis on sustainability and the energy transition. HitecVision manages private equity funds and collaborates with various stakeholders to drive growth in renewable energy and related industries. Notably, HitecVision has made several significant acquisitions in the marine surveying context, including Global Maritime, which provides marine consultancy and surveying services, Ross Offshore, known for its offshore services, Aluminum Offshore, which specializes in marine aluminum solutions, and Vryhof, a company that offers anchoring and mooring solutions. These transactions highlight HitecVision's strategic interest in the marine surveying and offshore sectors, reinforcing its role as a key player in these industries.


13. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The firm specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping them grow sustainably. With a diverse portfolio and a strong international presence, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Among their notable transactions, 3i Group acquired Esvagt in 2015, a company that provides essential services to the offshore wind and marine sectors, highlighting their engagement in marine-related industries. Additionally, their acquisition of Inspecta Group in 2007, a leading provider of inspection, testing, and certification services, further emphasizes their involvement in sectors that intersect with marine surveying, as these services are critical for compliance and safety in marine operations. These transactions illustrate 3i Group's commitment to investing in companies that support the marine surveying industry, making them a relevant investor in this space.


14. Equinor

  • Website: equinor.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Stavanger, Rogaland, Norway
  • Founded year: 1972
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: equinor

Equinor ASA is a public entity based in Stavanger, Norway, operating primarily in the energy sector with a focus on oil, gas, and renewable energy. Founded in 1972, the company has a workforce of over 10,000 employees and is committed to sustainability, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Equinor serves a diverse customer base, including governments and industries, providing energy solutions that address climate challenges while ensuring energy security. In recent years, Equinor has actively invested in marine surveying-related companies through its venture capital arm. Notable transactions include investments in Rovco and Vaarst, both of which are involved in advanced inspection technologies for marine environments. Additionally, Equinor participated in a funding round for ScoutDI, a company specializing in drone inspections, further emphasizing its commitment to supporting innovations in marine surveying and inspection technologies. These strategic investments align with Equinor's broader goals of enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability in marine energy operations.



Marine Surveying Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
RSK GroupHelsby, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+19893
SgsGeneva, Geneva, Switzerland10001+18785
Bureau Veritas SAEarls Colne, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50018287
KatapultOslo, Oslo, Norway11-5020178
Scottish EnterpriseGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)1001-5000199155
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115
AgoranovParis, Île-De-France, France11-50200042
Maven Capital PartnersGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)51-200200925
BoskalisPapendrecht, South Holland, Netherlands10001+19102
HitecVisionStavanger, Rogaland, Norway51-20019850
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
EquinorStavanger, Rogaland, Norway10001+19726


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