Drydocks World books FPSO conversion order

Drydocks World Dubai has been awarded a $13 million FPSO (floating production storage and offloading) conversion contract by BW Offshore.

The vessel involved, the BW Carmen, which has been renamed BW Athena, was built in 1994 and converted to an FPSO in 1999. The vessel arrived at the yard recently. Drydocks World’s scope of work includes lengthening of the vessel and fabrication and installation of a new section for the Submerged Turret Production (STP) system. All associated piping and electrical modification, module and crane installation and topside repair will be carried out at Dubai shipyard.

Khamis Juma Buamim, Chairman Drydocks and Maritime World, said: “We have made a name for ourselves in the vessel conversion market and have supported the oil and gas industry with a diverse range of projects, primarily FPSO and FSOs of varying scope and scale suited to industry needs. The contract is a testament to our growing technical capabilities and effective project management skills. We are certain that our growing portfolio of projects from world leading industry players will enhance our clout in this vital sector.”

Mr. Buamim added that “Drydocks World is positive about the future. We are armed with a solid business strategy that takes into account changing trends in the maritime industry.”

Currently, two projects — conversion of Betatank II to the Firenze FPSO and LNG Golar Frost into the FSRU Toscana — are underway at the Dubai yard.

December 20, 2010