Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Noble-Interceptor

On February 9, 2019, the British fishing vessel "Amadeus" (IMO: 9040675), measuring 258 gross tons, experienced a significant loss of engine power while operating in the North Sea. This unfortunate incident caused the vessel to drift perilously close to the "Maersk Interceptor," which was conducting operations in the Hod field for Aker BP, located at coordinates 56° 10.18' N 003° 26.05' E. In response to the potential threat, the rig urgently halted its wireline operations and withdrew from the well site to ensure the safety of both the personnel and the facility. As the fishing vessel approached, a full patch response was activated. The support vessels "Stril Mermaid" and "Skandi Marøy" were dispatched to the scene to provide immediate assistance. Their primary objective was to tow the "Amadeus" away from the safety zone and avert further risk to the oil rig. Fortunately, the fishing vessel ultimately passed approximately 0.35 nautical miles north of the Maersk Interceptor, translating to just over 600 meters of clearance. Following this, the crew aboard the "Skandi Marøy" successfully established a towing connection, guiding the distressed vessel in a northeast direction and well clear of the Hod field, thereby averting a potentially hazardous situation.

In a significant development, the Petroleum Safety Authority (PSA) has announced an order to Maersk Drilling Norge following a thorough investigation into the tragic accident that occurred on December 7, 2017, aboard the Maersk Interceptor. The investigation unveiled critical deficiencies in the materials handling systems and procedures utilized on the unit. During the ill-fated incident, which took place while a new seawater pump was being installed, one individual fell overboard and lost their life, while another sustained severe injuries. Currently, the Maersk Interceptor is active in conducting well work in the Tambar field in the North Sea, under the operation of Aker BP. The PSA's investigation team was present on the vessel from December 9 to 13, 2017, as part of the inquiry into this serious occurrence.

Aker BP has restarted operations at the Tambar Oil Field, located off the coast of Norway, as of December 12, 2023. This move comes after a temporary halt in production initiated on December 7 due to a tragic accident involving the jack-up rig 'Maersk Interceptor.' The incident resulted in the loss of one worker's life and left another injured during maintenance activities onboard the rig. Authorities, including the Petroleum Safety Authority Norway and local police, are conducting comprehensive investigations into the event. Additionally, Aker BP and Maersk Drilling have launched their own inquiries. As safety remains a priority, Aker BP plans a gradual recommencement of well service activities and other operations on the jack-up rig, ensuring these efforts do not impede the ongoing investigations. The reopening of the Tambar oil field marks a significant step toward normalcy following this unfortunate occurrence.