Norway-based SeaBird Exploration has inked a contract for the acquisition of research vessel Hawk Explorer and its seismic equipment.

The vessel has been chartered into the SeaBird fleet since 2006.

Under the contract, SeaBird will pay US$1.1m for the vessel and seismic equipment, releasing the company from all future lease payments and additional obligations as required under the charter agreement.

SeaBird is provider of marine acquisition for 2D/3D and 4D seismic data, and associated products and services to the oil and gas industry.