SeaBird, MCG increase NCS survey scope. Work to continue in 2019

October 12, 2018

Seismic players SeaBird Exploration has informed that its multi-client 2d survey project in partnership with MultiClient GeoPhysical in North West Europe has obtained further support from an oil major in the form of a pre-funding commitment. Also, the project scope has been increased, leading to a suspension for the 2018 season, slated for restart next year.

The two-month survey project was first announced in July, when SeaBird said it and MCG would conduct a 6,000km multi-client 2D Deep Imaging Campaign on the NCS, including cross-border lines to UKCS, using the Harrier Explorer vessel. MCG on September 12 said the project had officially started.

In a statement on Friday, SeaBird said that significant additional pre-funding commitment from an oil major had been secured relating to the ongoing project. The company did not identify the oil major.

“The pre-funding commitment is based on a revised scope increasing the survey from its initial 6,000 km to approximately 16,000 km,” SeaBird said.

Survey suspended, vessel stays busy

“Due to the planned increased survey scope and current inclement weather in the operative area, a decision has been made to suspend the survey for the 2018 season. The survey is expected to re-commence in the first half of 2019, provided further pre-funding has been secured,” SeaBird added.

While the project has been suspended until next year, SeaBird has managed to keep the Harrier Explorer busy.

Namely, the seismic company on Friday revealed that the Harrier Explorer has won a contract for a proprietary 2D survey in North West Europe.

“The project is due to commence imminently and will have a duration of about two weeks with an estimated contract value of approximately US$ 1 million. SeaBird will be using the Harrier Explorer for the work,” SeaBird said.