A Security Escort Vessel (SEV) is an armed external vessel that accompanies a client vessel through high-risk waters, providing a visible deterrent, response capability, and continuous monitoring throughout the transit. The armed component is legally sourced through the relevant country’s host nation security force e.g. Navy, Coastguard, Maritime Police.
SEVs can support offshore installations, resupply operations and commercial shipping vessels operating within the given Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) only. It is important to note that an SEV cannot leave its EEZ.
Castor Vali coordinates SEV operations regionally, 24/7 through our Lagos operations centre, supported by a vetted pool of more than 30 vessels meeting our compliance requirements.
Mobilisation times depend on vessel type, location, operational requirements and current availability. Our team can confirm available options once the requirement and intended schedule are known.
Although reported piracy incidents in the Gulf of Guinea have reduced from previous levels, the maritime security environment continues to evolve and the capability and intent remain.
The appropriate security measures depend on the vessel, route, current threat assessment and relevant client, P&I club, insurer, Flag State and industry requirements. An SEV can form part of a broader risk mitigation strategy for operations in higher-risk areas.
SEV pricing is based on the specific operational requirement, including vessel type, route, escort duration, speed, crewing and associated risk profile.
Following an initial consultation, our team will confirm the requirement and provide an appropriate commercial proposal.
Our Gulf of Guinea SEV capability is supported by a memorandum of understanding covering more than 30 vetted vessels meeting industry compliance criteria, including ballistic and non-ballistic options.
Access to a wider pool of pre-vetted vessels enables us to match vessel capability to the route, risk profile and operational requirements. Available vessels can provide escort speeds of up to 25-30 knots, depending on the selected vessel and operating conditions.
Yes. Our operations are aligned with recognised maritime security and responsible security frameworks, including Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPSHR) and Best Management Practice Maritime Security (BMP MS).
We can provide relevant supporting documentation to client HSE, security or compliance teams as part of the consultation and due diligence process.
Yes. Castor Vali coordinates maritime security services across multiple Gulf of Guinea countries, including armed guard coverage within permitted anchorages, escort handovers between national waters and 24/7 asset tracking.
For multi-country operations, our regional coordination capability can provide clients with a single point of contact across the transit.
We begin with a consultation to understand the intended route, vessel, timeframe and security requirements. Our team then defines the appropriate solution, confirms availability and pricing, and coordinates the necessary compliance, documentation and mobilisation requirements.
Once operations begin, clients receive ongoing operational coordination and security reporting, supported by our 24/7 operations centres.
Early engagement is recommended where possible, particularly for complex or multi-jurisdictional requirements.
