The Ocean-Greatwhite: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In a proactive response to the recent incident involving the 'Ocean Greatville', Diamond Offshore Drilling is collaborating closely with BP and local authorities to manage the situation effectively. The offshore drilling contractor is currently undertaking measures to recover lost equipment and is preparing to replace any items that are missing or have sustained damage. At this stage, Diamond Offshore Drilling has indicated that it is premature to provide a reliable estimate of the financial repercussions stemming from the incident. The company plans to assess the situation further as more information becomes available regarding the recovery process of the LMRP and riser, along with the necessary repairs and replacements for the affected equipment. BP is fully aware of the situation and has extended its support to Diamond Offshore Drilling throughout this process.

On February 1, 2024, the 'Ocean Greatwhite', a dynamically positioned rig operated by Diamond, experienced a setback during sub-sea drilling activities for British Petroleum. The incident occurred about 200 kilometers west of the Shetland Islands, specifically at coordinates 60 22 51 N, 004 05 55 W, approximately two nautical miles from the Schiehallion Field. Fortunately, no personnel were injured in the event, as the rig was not actively drilling at the time. The mishap unfolded as the rig, facing severe weather conditions, had previously disconnected its lower marine riser package (LMRP) from the blowout preventer (BOP) installed at the well. Unexpectedly, the LMRP and the attached riser string became unfastened at the slip joint tensioner ring, resulting in them dropping to the seabed. Despite the incident, the structural integrity of the rig was preserved, and the BOP remained secure, ensuring that the well itself was not compromised. Investigations have commenced to determine the factors that contributed to this separation. Importantly, assessments have reported no damage to both the seabed infrastructure and the environment, with no indications of harms to the lower hull of the rig. However, it remains unclear what specific operations will be necessary to retrieve the equipment. The rig is expected to face extended downtime as recovery plans are formulated.

Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI), recognized as the globe's foremost shipbuilding and offshore facility manufacturer, proudly announced the successful delivery of the Ocean Greatwhite, officially the largest semi-submersible drilling rig worldwide, to Houston's Diamond Offshore. This significant milestone took place on July 15, with HHI receiving a substantial installment of 460 billion won (approximately $395 million) from Diamond Offshore, enhancing HHI’s financial position. The Ocean Greatwhite boasts impressive dimensions, measuring 123 meters in length and 78 meters in width, and is engineered for operations in water depths reaching up to 3 kilometers. The rig has the capability to drill down to an astonishing 10.67 kilometers beneath the sea surface. This state-of-the-art rig is set to begin its charter with BP in the Great Australian Bight starting in October this year. HHI originally secured the contract to construct this remarkable rig in 2013 for a total of $630 million and has successfully delivered four additional drillships to Diamond Offshore in the past. An official from HHI emphasized, "The successful delivery of Ocean Greatwhite was made possible through the strong partnership and mutual trust between Diamond Offshore and HHI." This landmark achievement underscores Hyundai Heavy Industries' commitment to innovation and excellence in the offshore drilling sector.