Awilco’s semi-sub awaits Apache contract re-start after renewal

Awilco Drilling, a UK-based drilling contractor that owns two semi-submersible drilling rigs, has informed that one of its rigs is waiting for project acceptance before contract re-start for Apache North Sea. 

According to Awilco, the WilPhoenix semi-submersible drilling rig remains berthed at Hartlepool, UK while awaiting final project acceptance by Apache North Sea prior to re-start of the remaining 22 months of its three-year contract.

In the fourth quarter of 2015, the WilPhoenix was in continued operations for Apache North Sea until November 17 when the rig proceeded to the Able Shipyard in Hartlepool to start the five yearly renewal survey, where it remained through the end of the quarter.

The company recently said in its 4Q 2015 report that the SPS and capital work on the WilPhoenix was substantially complete.

The offshore driller said that the total cost of the yard stay project was expected to be less than the budget of $42.5 million.

WilPhoenix is one of Awilco Drilling’s two enhanced pacesetter semi-submersibles and is equipped for drilling in water depths up to 1,200 ft. The semi-sub rig was built in 1982 and upgraded in 2011.

Awilco’s other drilling rig, the WilHunter, remains hot stacked in Invergordon. WilHunter is stacked since July 2015.

Offshore Energy Today Staff