Semi fleet sold out

摘要

Long-term contract renewals and exercised options are tying up most US Gulf-based semis, especially deepwater units, into next year and beyond. This leaves -several operators unable to proceed with their upcoming programs as planned. Chartering of jackups in the region is traditionally done on a well-by-well basis, however, as demand here too is showing no signs of slowing down, operators want to avoid being caught short, and are increasingly interested in chartering rigs on a longer-term basis. USA GULF OF MEXICO; As expected, Diamond Offshore has a Letter of Intent (LOI) in place with BP for a two-year extension for semi Ocean Confidence. A finalized contract is expected to be signed within, the next, month or ,o. The new term will begin on completion of the current contract in January 2006. The rig has worked exclusively for BP since being placed into service in January 2001, It is currently drilling in the Mad Dog Deep field in Green Canyon Block 826, USA GULF OF MEXICO: Kerr-McGee has inked a one-year extension with Noble Drilling that now extends its contract on semi. Noble Amos Runner through 2006. Last December, the operator granted Noble a six-month extension on the rig. The semi is currently working in the Chilkoot prospect in Green Canyon 320 and has been under contract solely with Kerr-McGee since August 2004. Prior to then, it worked, for the operator under a rig share deal that also included Murphy E&P and Marathon.