In 2013, the ABS-classed fleet expanded to 205.6 mill gt, a growth rate of more than 6% year-on-year, thus becoming only the second classification society to surpass the 200 mill gt mark. The class society also maintained a leading position in the global orderbook closing out the year with 38.8 mill gt contracted with ABS, some 22% of all the vessels on order.
"Through sound technology investment, a focus on best-in-class service and a commitment to the mission of ABS, the organisation was able to continue its growth across all market segments," said Wiernicki. "Key investments in our people and technical capabilities place ABS in a position to further cement our position as a global leader."
As well as containerships, ABS continued its strong performance in the LNGC sector with 27% share of the orderbook. Tankers continue to comprise the largest tonnage within the ABS fleet, growing more than 5% year-on-year to 73.8 mill gt, with orders for a further 139 vessels aggregating 6.2 mill gt.
Indicating a sound foundation for the future, nearly 50% of all vessels classed by ABS are five years of age or younger and nearly 70% of vessels have 10 years, or less of operational activity.
ABS continued its strong performance in the FPSO market sector and closed out 2013 with 42% of the existing FPSOs and 39% of newbuilds.
In the area of Port State Control, ABS maintained its position as a top performer with the US Coast Guard and Paris and Tokyo MOUs in their annual reports on class-related detentions. In July, the Paris MOU identified ABS as the best performing Recognised Organisation (RO) for the rolling three-year period 2010-2012.