Drydocks World scores FPSO refurbishment deal from Modec

Dubai-based Drydocks World has been awarded a contract to refurbish and extend the operational life of the Baobab Ivoirian FPSO by floater expert Modec.

The project is scheduled to begin in May 2025 and last for eight months. It will include extensive structural improvements to the vessel, including the renewal of 1,000 tons of steel, the coating of 250,000 square meters of tanks, and the installation of 11,500 meters of new piping.

The scope of work also includes improving crew accommodations and integrating advanced technologies to enhance the vessel’s efficiency and reliability. Upon completion, the unit’s lifespan will be extended by an additional 15 years.

Drydocks World is no stranger to these projects as it has already completed over 50 similar projects, including over 30 FPSO upgrades.

The FPSO has a production capacity of 70,000 bopd, 75m cubic feet of natural gas, and can store up to 2m barrels of crude oil. It was converted from a supertanker in 2003.

The unit is currently operating in the Baobab oil field some 25 km off the Ivory Coast operated by CNR International. Vaalco Energy is a partner in the field. The unit will soon be transferred to the Drydocks World facility in Dubai for an eight-month refurbishment.