SeaBird Exploration secures new offshore contract in West Africa

SeaBird Exploration has secured a new contract for ocean bottom node (OBN) source operations in West Africa, extending the employment of its seismic vessel Fulmar Explorer into 2027.

According to an announcement issued on November 12 by SED Energy Holdings Plc, SeaBird’s parent company, the contract covers a campaign lasting approximately six months, including mobilisation and demobilisation. The Fulmar Explorer is expected to begin mobilisation in December 2026, with the project extending the vessel’s operational commitments into the following year.

The company did not disclose the contract value, the identity of the client or the specific country in which the offshore operations will take place.

Further employment for Fulmar Explorer

The latest award follows an earlier contract announced in June 2026 for OBN source work in West Africa, also involving the Fulmar Explorer. That agreement covered an approximately three-month campaign, including mobilisation and demobilisation.

The new contract provides further employment visibility for the vessel as SeaBird continues to pursue opportunities in offshore seismic operations.

“We are pleased to secure another OBN source project for Fulmar Explorer, extending the vessel’s activity well into 2027,” said Finn Atle Hamre, CEO of SeaBird Exploration.

Hamre said the company was observing increased tendering activity and improving visibility for 2027 in the OBN market. He also pointed to limited availability of suitable high-end vessels as a factor that could support further contracting opportunities.

SeaBird Exploration, a wholly owned subsidiary of SED Energy Holdings, provides seismic services and source vessel solutions for offshore projects. The latest award adds to its contracted activity as the company positions its fleet for further opportunities in the offshore survey market.