First newbuilt North Sea-compliant floatel

When delivered in March 2010, the DNV-classed "Floatel Superior" will as per Keppel FELS be the only newbuilt floatel in full compliance with all the latest rules and regulations for the Norwegian sector. The rig was recently named at Keppel FELS. Upon delivery, the "Floatel Superior" will commence its maiden charter contract for ConocoPhillips Australia.

Floatel International Ltd was established in 2006 and is incorporated under the laws of Bermuda. The vision of the Company is to own and operate the most modern fleet of accommodation and construction support vessels (floatels) in the world. The fleet is designed to meet the increased demand set by new challenging projects in deep water and hostile environments. Floatel International strives to provide superior living standard and support services compared to the existing floatel fleet.

Capable of operating in the harshest offshore environments, "Floatel Superior" features accommodation for 440 persons in one-man cabins, providing the highest quality offshore accommodation available in the market today.
The unit features full health, safety and environment (HSE) compliance including strict noise level requirements, free fall lifeboats and escape chutes. In particular, the unit utilises a telescopic gangway for the safe transit of personnel and goods to and from a rig, with the ability to be extended or shortened by +/-7.5m, allowing the vessel to remain connected in severe weather. Facilities onboard include a galley and mess room for 220 people in one seating, as well as recreational amenities such as a cinema, internet café, games room, gymnasium and sauna.

This new generation floatel is built to the DSSTM 20NS design, developed and owned by Keppel’s Deepwater Technology Group (DTG) and Marine Structure Consultants (MSC). The design combines and enhances the tried and tested DSSTM series semisubmersible drilling rig and Keppel’s SSAUTM 3600 accommodation semisubmersible designs, to offer a unique solution for the North Sea.

"Floatel Superior" is equipped with both Dynamic Positioning 3 (DP3) and 8-point mooring system capabilities, resulting in safe, environmentally friendly, optimal and reliable operations.

Meanwhile, the construction of Floatel’s second accommodation semi, "Floatel Reliance", is on track for delivery in the second half of 2010.