The offshore drilling industry in Europe is crucial for extracting oil and gas from beneath the seabed. Companies in this sector focus on developing underwater infrastructure and employing advanced technologies to enhance drilling efficiency. This includes major energy corporations, private equity firms, and specialized service providers. As global energy demands evolve, there is a growing shift toward more sustainable and efficient practices. In response, the industry is embracing innovation, investing heavily in renewable energy solutions alongside traditional offshore operations. Moreover, substantial investments in digital technologies are set to transform operations, showcasing the industry's forward momentum.


This comprehensive list highlights the top 16 offshore drilling investors in Europe, combining corporate giants and agile private equity firms from various sectors. Predominantly headquartered in Norway, the UK, and Sweden, these investors range in size from small groups to multinational corporations, demonstrating their significant assets and influence. Founded between 1828 and 2003, they reported 2024 investments from zero to over fifty, reflecting varying degrees of activity and focus within the offshore drilling market. These profiles reveal the multifaceted nature of investment strategies fueling growth in this vital energy sector.


Top 16 Offshore Drilling Investors in Europe


1. 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 both traditional and renewable energy sectors. Notably, HitecVision has made significant investments in the offshore drilling context, including the acquisition of Atlantica Tender Drilling in 2011, which operates in the offshore drilling market. Additionally, they acquired Deep Sea Mooring AS, a mooring specialist formed by Odfjell Drilling, further solidifying their presence in the offshore sector. Other relevant transactions include their investment in Energy Drilling and Vryhof, both of which are linked to offshore operations, showcasing HitecVision's strategic interest in the offshore drilling industry.


2. EV Private Equity


EV Private Equity is an investment firm based in Stavanger, Rogaland, Norway, specializing in energy technology and sustainable investments. Founded in 2002, the firm partners with management teams to enhance business strategies and drive emissions reduction in energy-intensive sectors. They have been involved in several significant transactions in the offshore drilling context, including the acquisition of Enhanced Drilling in 2019, which provides services directly related to offshore drilling operations. Additionally, their investment in Aquaterra Energy, which operates in the offshore sector by providing riser systems and offshore structures, highlights their commitment to the energy industry. Their focus on responsible investment practices positions them as a leader in the transition to a sustainable energy future, while still maintaining a foothold in the offshore drilling market.


3. 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, founded in 1972 and headquartered in Stavanger, Norway, is a public entity operating in the energy sector with a strong focus on oil, gas, and renewable energy. The company is committed to sustainability and aims 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 been involved in several transactions relevant to the offshore drilling context. For instance, they led an equity investment in Upwing Energy, which is developing downhole gas compressor technology that can enhance drilling efficiency. Additionally, their acquisition of a 10% stake in Ørsted, a company with offshore wind projects, reflects their strategic interest in offshore energy solutions. These activities demonstrate Equinor's active role in the offshore drilling industry while also pursuing broader energy initiatives.


4. TotalEnergies


TotalEnergies is a corporate investor based in France, founded in 1924, and employs over 10,000 people. The company is a major player in the energy sector, focusing on producing and marketing a diverse range of energy solutions, including oil, gas, and renewable energy. In 2023, TotalEnergies made a significant move by acquiring a 16.33% stake in Libya's Waha Oil concessions from Marathon Petroleum for $450 million, which provides access to over 500 million barrels of oil equivalent and immediate production capabilities. Additionally, their acquisition of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline in 2022 further emphasizes their involvement in oil infrastructure, which is often linked to offshore drilling activities. These transactions highlight TotalEnergies' commitment to expanding its oil and gas portfolio, particularly in offshore contexts, while also addressing the need for sustainable energy solutions.


5. Shell

  • Website: shell.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1907
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: shell

Shell plc is a multinational oil and gas company based in London, England, founded in 1907. It operates in the energy and chemicals sectors, providing essential products such as fuels, lubricants, and chemical solutions to businesses and consumers worldwide. Shell is involved in the extraction, refining, and distribution of oil and gas, serving a diverse range of industries globally. Notably, Shell has engaged in various transactions relevant to offshore activities, including the acquisition of oil assets from Petromanas Energy Inc. in Albania, which increased their stake in the business significantly. Additionally, Shell's joint venture with EDF Renewables North America to co-develop the Atlantic Shores Offshore Wind project demonstrates their involvement in offshore energy projects, although focused on wind energy. Furthermore, Shell Ventures has invested in companies like Salamander Solutions and Quantico Energy Solutions, which, while not directly offshore drilling, indicate their interest in innovative energy solutions that could complement their offshore operations.


6. 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 based in London, England, founded in 2011. The firm focuses on providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in 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 subsea ROV services company, providing significant funding to enhance its fleet, which is crucial for offshore drilling operations. Additionally, BGF has invested in SPEX Group, a provider of oil and gas services, further demonstrating its involvement in the offshore drilling context. These transactions highlight BGF's commitment to supporting companies that play a vital role in the offshore drilling industry.


7. 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, specializing in providing growth capital and investment solutions to small and mid-sized businesses across various sectors. Founded in 2009, the firm has a diverse portfolio that includes technology and healthcare, but it also has significant investments in the oil and gas sector. Notably, Maven has made strategic investments in companies like R&M Engineering, which provides essential oil services in the North Sea, reflecting their confidence in the offshore market. Additionally, their involvement with Fletcher Shipping and ROVOP highlights their engagement with maritime and remotely operated vehicle services, which are critical to offshore drilling operations. With a total of 25 investments in 2024, Maven Capital Partners continues to support businesses that unlock potential and achieve significant growth, including those in the offshore drilling industry.


8. EQT Group

  • Website: eqtgroup.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 30
  • LinkedIn: eqt-partners

EQT Group is a private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in a diverse range of investment strategies, including private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing varied investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Among its notable transactions, EQT acquired Aker Solutions in December 2013 for approximately $663 million, a key player in the offshore oil and gas industry. Additionally, in October 2012, EQT Infra acquired Tampnet for €202 million, which is recognized for operating the largest offshore high-capacity communication network, further emphasizing EQT's engagement in the offshore sector. These transactions highlight EQT Group's strategic interest in the offshore drilling industry, despite their broader investment focus.


9. Ferd AS

  • Website: ferd.no
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 1998
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: ferd-as

Ferd AS is a private equity investment company based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 1998. The firm focuses on creating lasting value through diverse business activities, including investment management, real estate development, and support for social entrepreneurs. Ferd AS has been involved in several significant transactions in the offshore energy sector, including a post-IPO equity investment in Petroleum Geo-Services, a key player in offshore oil and gas. Additionally, Ferd jointly acquired Aibel, a company specializing in offshore wind and energy services, for approximately 1.5 billion NOK, highlighting their commitment to the offshore energy market. Furthermore, Ferd's recent acquisition of a 25 percent stake in General Oceans, which encompasses companies in ocean technology, indicates their ongoing interest in the broader offshore sector. These transactions reflect Ferd AS's strategic positioning within the offshore drilling and energy landscape.


10. Norvestor

  • Website: norvestor.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: norvestor-equity-as

Norvestor is a private equity firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 1989. The firm specializes in investment management and advisory services, focusing on partnering with medium-sized Nordic businesses to support their growth and development. Norvestor has a strong emphasis on sustainability and invests across various sectors, including IT services and property maintenance. Notably, Norvestor has made significant investments in the oil and gas sector, including the acquisition of iSURVEY, Future Production AS, Read Cased Hole, and Presserv AS. These transactions highlight Norvestor's commitment to enhancing operational efficiency and market presence in the oil and gas industry, particularly in areas that support offshore drilling operations. Their acquisition of Read Cased Hole, a Scottish oil and gas intelligence service, and Presserv AS, a company focused on preservation and corrosion protection, further underscores their relevance in the offshore drilling context.


11. James Fisher and Sons plc


James Fisher and Sons plc is a marine engineering company based in Barrow-In-Furness, England, founded in 1847. The company provides a diverse range of services across the energy, maritime transport, and defence sectors, focusing on operational excellence and sustainability. In recent years, they have made several strategic acquisitions to enhance their capabilities in the offshore sector. Notable transactions include the acquisition of GMC Produkt AS, which specializes in lifting equipment for the Norwegian offshore and oilfield services markets, and Hughes Sub Surface Engineering, a subsea service firm. These acquisitions reflect their commitment to expanding their footprint in the offshore drilling and energy sectors, particularly in providing innovative engineering solutions and asset management services.


12. Investinor

  • Website: investinor.no
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Trondheim, Trøndelag, Norway
  • Founded year: 2008
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: investinor

Investinor AS is a venture capital investment company based in Trondheim, Trøndelag, Norway, founded in 2008. The firm specializes in providing funding to promising startups and companies, helping them grow and achieve market leadership. Investinor manages state interests in seed and venture funds and collaborates with entrepreneurs and other investors. Among its notable transactions, Investinor has invested in Ace Oil Tools and Well Conveyor, both of which are involved in the oil and gas sector. Additionally, Investinor participated in funding rounds for Zilift Limited, a UK-based provider of artificial lift solutions for the oil and gas industry, and Ziebel AS, a Norwegian oil services company. These investments highlight Investinor's engagement with companies that contribute to the offshore drilling industry, showcasing its commitment to supporting innovations in this field.


13. 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 provides a wide range of services including coastal defense, land reclamation, and offshore energy support. Their clientele includes port authorities and energy companies, who rely on Boskalis for safe and efficient maritime operations. In recent years, Boskalis has made significant acquisitions to strengthen its position in the offshore sector. Notably, they acquired the UK-based Gardline Group in 2017, which allowed them to enter the offshore survey market. In 2019, they further expanded their capabilities by acquiring Horizon Geosciences, a move that underscores their commitment to enhancing their offshore services. In 2024, Boskalis announced the acquisition of ALP Maritime Services, which includes a fleet of anchor-handling salvage tugs, further solidifying their maritime service offerings. Additionally, their acquisition of a 14.8% stake in Fugro highlights their strategic interest in geotechnical and subsea services, which are critical for offshore drilling operations. Overall, Boskalis is well-positioned as an investor in the offshore drilling industry due to their extensive service offerings and strategic acquisitions.


14. 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, aiming to foster sustainable growth. With a diverse portfolio and a strong international presence, 3i Group focuses on creating value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Among their notable transactions, 3i Group acquired Esvagt in 2015, a company that offers services to the offshore energy sector, highlighting their interest in offshore operations. Additionally, their investment in Noreco, a Norwegian energy company, involved a significant equity financing round, further indicating their engagement in the energy market, which includes offshore drilling activities. These transactions reflect 3i Group's commitment to investing in sectors that support energy production and infrastructure development.


15. Triton Partners


Triton Partners is a private equity firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 1997, specializing in private equity and credit investments in European mid-market businesses. The firm focuses on sectors such as Business Services, Industrial Tech, and Healthcare, providing operational expertise and capital to help companies unlock their full potential. Triton partners with management teams to address challenges and drive growth. Notably, Triton has made significant investments in companies relevant to the offshore drilling industry, including the acquisition of DeepOcean, where they became the majority owner, enhancing the company's balance sheet and liquidity. Additionally, their acquisition of MacGregor, a cargo handling specialist, further emphasizes their involvement in sectors that support offshore operations. These transactions highlight Triton's strategic interest in companies that play a role in the offshore drilling and marine services landscape.


16. Aker Solutions

  • Website: akersolutions.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Fornebu, Akershus, Norway
  • Founded year: 1841
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: aker-solutions

Aker Solutions ASA is an engineering firm based in Fornebu, Akershus, Norway, founded in 1841. The company specializes in energy infrastructure, providing integrated solutions and services for low-carbon oil and gas production, as well as renewable energy projects. Aker Solutions has been actively involved in the offshore drilling sector through various acquisitions aimed at enhancing their service offerings. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Subsea House and SSH Engineering in 2012, which aimed to bolster their subsea capabilities, and the acquisition of Reinertsen in 2017, which further strengthened their position in the oil and gas sector. In 2019, they acquired Principle Power, a company that focuses on floating wind technology, indicating their interest in innovative solutions that can complement offshore operations. Additionally, their acquisition of Enovate Systems in 2013, specializing in subsea well control equipment, underscores their commitment to enhancing safety and efficiency in offshore drilling. Aker Solutions operates globally, leveraging digital technology and strategic partnerships to navigate the transition to sustainable energy practices while maintaining a strong foothold in the offshore drilling industry.



Offshore Drilling Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
HitecVisionStavanger, Rogaland, Norway51-20019850
EV Private EquityStavanger, Rogaland, Norway11-5020020
EquinorStavanger, Rogaland, Norway10001+19726
TotalEnergiesFrance10001+192411
ShellLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+190720
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
Maven Capital PartnersGlasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK)51-200200925
EQT GroupStockholm, Stockholm, Sweden1001-5000199430
Ferd ASOslo, Oslo, Norway51-20019980
NorvestorOslo, Oslo, Norway11-5019893
James Fisher and Sons plcBarrow-In-Furness, England, United Kingdom (UK)1001-500018470
InvestinorTrondheim, Trøndelag, Norway11-5020084
BoskalisPapendrecht, South Holland, Netherlands10001+19102
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
Triton PartnersLuxembourg201-50019976
Aker SolutionsFornebu, Akershus, Norway10001+18411


Want to find more investors focusing on the offshore drilling industry?

If you want to find more investors that are active in the offshore drillingindustry, you can do that with Inven. We built this list and analysis throughInven's Investor Search, and there are a lot more private equity, venturecapital, and corporate investors like these globally.

With Inven, you'll also get to know:

  • Deal History: Number of deals and their sizes.
  • Portfolio: Companies they've invested in.
  • Contact data: Key dealmakers, including their emails and phonenumbers.
  • ...and much more!