Shelf Drilling acquires Diamond Offshore jackup
Shelf Drilling has entered into a definitive agreement with subsidiaries of Diamond Offshore to purchase the Ocean Scepter jackup drilling rig. The total cost for the rig (including the purchase price, the expected costs for the planned reactivation, and mobilization of the rig for its intended purpose) is expected to be approximately $90 million. This all-in cost is substantially in line with the three jackups purchased by Shelf Drilling in 2017.
The Ocean Scepter rig was built in 2008 and is of KFELS Mod Super B design, consistent with the group’s rig acquisition strategy. The premium high-spec jackup rig is currently located in the US Gulf of Mexico. Upon delivery, the rig will be mobilized to the Middle East, and the group’s total shallow-water rig count will increase from 39 rigs to 40 rigs. Shelf Drilling will finance the acquisition with proceeds from the initial public offering completed earlier in June, and cash on hand. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, and the rig is expected to be delivered during Q3 2018.
