The Planning and Drilling of a Wildcat Well in the Republic of Seychelles by an Operator/Contractor/ Integrated Services Alliance

Abstract

Constant Bank-1 is a 3,200 m ͑10,500 ft͒ wildcat well located in 50 m ͑164 ft͒ of water on a carbonate bank in the Republic of Seychelles, a group of tropical islands in the Indian Ocean. In this article we describe the development of a contracting philosophy for planning and executing the project through the formation of an alliance comprised of operator, drilling contractor, and integrated services company. We examine the unique environmental and logistical features of this project and describe how the alliance addressed these critical issues by using the strengths of the respective companies to reduce risks and ensure a cost-effective, successful operation. The logistical management of this rank wildcat well, which was situated in a remote location offering no practical means of resupply and no local resources, was further complicated by the technical difficulties associated with the well.We conclude by discussing the different objectives of each company in conjunction with the overall project objectives and describing how these respective goals were aligned to the mutual needs of the alliance. The lessons learned by the alliance members are noted and recommendations are made for approaching similar operations.