Streamer handling apparatus for use on seismic survey vessels

Abstract

A streamer handling and towing system for a seismic survey vessel comprises a beam (42) secured to the underside of the deck (50) of the vessel immediately above the streamer deck (20), so that it extends generally longitudinally of the vessel above normal head height. The beam (42) is pivoted at its stern end, and supported at its other end (54) by a telescopic arm (56) which can lower that end towards the streamer deck (20). A carriage (60) supporting a spooling block (34) for the streamer (28) is movable in both directions along the beam (42). During towing, the beam (42) is held in its raised position, with the spooling block (34) at the stern end of the beam. When it is desired to work on the streamer, the carriage (60) is moved along the beam (42) to the other end, which is then lowered towards the streamer deck (20) to provide convenient waist high access to the streamer.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.