Noble rig lines up new drilling gig offshore Australia

U.S. offshore drilling contractor Noble Corporation has landed a new assignment for one of its semi-submersible rigs with an undisclosed firm off the coast of Australia.

While disclosing a new assignment for its Ocean Apex semi-submersible rig, Noble explained that the new contract would enable the unit to stay longer in Australian waters.

The rig’s new drilling job, which is for a minimum of 37 days, will begin in direct continuation of its prior commitments in Australia, estimated to occur between Q2-Q3 of 2025.

The semi-submersible is currently on contract with Santos until May 2025, when it is due to begin its assignment with Chevron, which is set to end in July 2025.

The 1976-built Ocean Apex rig, which had an upgrade in 2014, has a maximum hook-load capacity of 1,000 tons, and water depth capabilities of up to 6,000 feet (around 1,829 meters).

With a drilling depth capability of up to 30,000 feet (about 9,144 meters), the rig has a variable deck load of 7,000 long tons and crew quarters for 140 personnel.

Noble’s latest deal comes a day after the rig owner confirmed a drilling assignment off the coast of Suriname.

The firm expects a softer utilization environment throughout 2025, with better times from late 2025 and 2026.