SBM Offshore orders FPSO hull from Shanghai Waigaoqiao
SBM Offshore Expands FPSO Fleet with New Order
Dutch floater expert SBM Offshore has made a significant move in the offshore oil and gas sector by ordering another Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) hull from Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding (SWS) in China. This order marks the sixth hull based on SBM’s innovative Fast4Ward design. The new FPSO will enhance the company’s capabilities in the industry, particularly in oil storage and production.
New FPSO Hull Specifications
The latest FPSO hull ordered by SBM Offshore boasts impressive specifications. Once completed, it will have the capacity to hold 2.3 million barrels of oil. The hull itself measures 333 meters in length and 60 meters in width, making it a substantial addition to the company’s fleet. The previous four hulls were successfully delivered between 2019 and 2023, showcasing a strong partnership between SBM Offshore and SWS.
The most recent hull, designated for the FPSO Jaguar, was delivered just last month. This FPSO will operate in the Whiptail development within the Stabroek block off the coast of Guyana, under the auspices of supermajor ExxonMobil. One notable feature of the newly ordered hull is its increased accommodation area. The capacity has expanded from 180 to 240 personnel, allowing for better living conditions for crew members during offshore operations.
While the specific end client for this new FPSO has not been disclosed, it is worth noting that ExxonMobil’s next project in Guyana, named Hammerhead, will not utilize SBM’s FPSO design. Instead, ExxonMobil has opted for a conversion of a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) for this project.
SWS’s Track Record and Future Prospects
Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding has established itself as a leader in the shipbuilding industry. Since its inception 25 years ago, SWS has built a total of 579 vessels and offshore platforms, amassing a total tonnage of 125.87 million deadweight tons (dwt). This achievement makes SWS the first Chinese shipbuilder to surpass the 100 million dwt milestone, highlighting its capabilities and reputation in the global market.
In addition to the recent FPSO hull order, SBM Offshore has also secured a contract to build an FPSO for TotalEnergies’ GranMorgu field development project in Block 58 off Suriname. This contract further solidifies SBM’s position in the offshore oil and gas sector and demonstrates its commitment to expanding its fleet and capabilities.
As the demand for offshore oil production continues to grow, SBM Offshore’s strategic decisions, including this latest hull order, position the company well for future opportunities. With a focus on innovation and collaboration with leading shipbuilders like SWS, SBM Offshore is poised to remain a key player in the evolving energy landscape.
