Cable Laying Ship in Service

Fisher (James) & Sons PLC
9 May 2001




9 May 2001



        First of James Fisher's New Cable Laying Ships Enters Service



The Oceanic Princess, the first of two new cable laying vessels purchased for
conversion by specialist UK shipping group James Fisher and Sons PLC in the
second half of last year, has been delivered on long term charter to
it-International Telecom, a subsidiary of Advanced Technology Systems,
Greensboro, North Carolina.



Delivery to it-International on 4 May follows the successful completion of sea
trials for the  5000 tonne former Ro-Ro vessel, converted to its new role at
the Victor Lenac shipyard in Rijeka, Croatia.  Conversion work on the second
ship, the 3000 tonne Oceanic Pearl, is at an advanced stage.  This vessel is
expected to undergo sea trials later in the summer prior to going on charter
to it-International.



Delays to conversion work on the two vessels enabled James Fisher to specify
various operational changes.  On the Oceanic Princess these include increased
accommodation and additional power generation and thruster power, combined
with the installation of the charterer's preferred sophisticated cable
monitoring and control system.  Similar modifications are being made to the
Oceanic Pearl.



Cable deployment on the delivered ship is monitored and controlled from a
Makai suite of equipment installed on the bridge adjacent to the DP control
station.  There is a separate cable lay control room overlooking the main
cable working deck.  Fully air-conditioned accommodation is provided for 65
persons.  Separate lounges, recreation rooms, conference room and client
lounge have been incorporated.  A gymnasium with sauna is an additional
feature.



Commenting, David Cobb, chairman of James Fisher, said:  'This latest vessel,
Oceanic Princess, is to be joined in the next three months by Oceanic Pearl.
These vessels will add an extra dimension to our successful presence in the
growing market for cable laying worldwide.  We already have the 'Nexus',
currently on charter with Global Marine Systems Limited, and the three ships
together will provide an important contribution to our operations.'



Press Enquiries:



David B. Cobb CBE
James Fisher and Sons Public Limited Company
Tel: [phone].



Issued on behalf of James Fisher and Sons Public Limited Company by Tavistock
Communications (contact: Keith Payne, tel: [phone])