Dolphin Drilling AS (Dolphin Drilling) has made the strategic decision to scrap the drilling rig Bideford Dolphin. This decision aligns with Dolphin Drilling’s ongoing efforts to optimise its fleet and enhance operational efficiency. The rig will be sold and scrapped in a responsible manner in accordance with applicable international standards.
The semi-submersible drilling rig “Bideford Dolphin” was built in 1975 and upgraded in 1999, with a maximum drilling depth of 21,325 feet (6,500 meters) and the ability to operate in 1,476 feet (450 meters) of water.
In mid-2023, Dolphin Drilling announced the acquisition of two rigs, the 1987-built “Paul B Loyd Jr” and the “Transocean Leader” for $61.5 million. In addition, Dolphin Drilling owns two semi-submersible drilling rigs of the enhanced Aker H-3 design, the Borgland Dolphin and the Blackford Dolphin. The Borgland Dolphin is under long-term charter to EnQuest UK.
Recently, Dolphin Drilling announced the termination of their March 2023 charter of the “Blackford Dolphin” semi-submersible drilling rig, which was intended to be used for operations offshore Nigeria, citing Peak Petroleum Industries Nigeria Limited’s (Peak Petroleum) continued breach of contract. Peak Petroleum has contested Dolphin Drilling’s decision to terminate the contract and has filed a legal action against it.