Deepwater Pathfinder for Reliance
Reliance has decided to hire Transocean’s deepwater drilling rig Deepwater Pathfinder, currently drilling for Shell in Nigeria.
PETROWATCH learns discussions between Reliance and Transocean concluded a few days ago. “Reliance has secured Deepwater Pathfinder at a day rate of $525,000,†says a source.
“Pathfinder will be on contract to Reliance for three â€کfirm’ years plus â€کoptions’ of one plus one year. Reliance has been in talks with at least five drilling contractors for an ultra-deepwater rig that can work in water depths of up to 10,000-ft.
By all accounts Deepwater Pathfinder fits the bill. Deepwater Pathfinder is a dynamically positioned drillship built on a design by Conoco/Reading & Bates.
Reliance’s decision to opt for Deepwater Pathfinder raises a question mark over talks with other deepwater drilling contractors Frigstaad Offshore, Sevan Drilling, Pride International and Ocean Rig. Unclear is when Deepwater Pathfinder will be mobilised for Reliance.