Securing diesel bunkering with a stand-off barge

Text: Sveinung W. Jensen, Tellus Kommunikasjon

The tanker eases into Fedafjord to deliver diesel. The recipient is the semi-submersible drilling rig Ocean GreatWhite, which is at the yard for maintenance work.

But in order to carry out the operation, a floating intermediate quay has to be put in place.

FARMAR PROVIDES this solution. On three occasions, most recently this February, the company has contributed a barge positioned between the rig and the tanker. This allows the bunkering to be carried out safely and efficiently.

For the two most recent assignments, the crane vessel Farmar Aton was used, while the barge Ponton 6 was employed the first time.

THE YARD IN KVINESDAL has in recent years built a strong position in maintenance, conversion and upgrading of ships and rigs, and is also active in the recycling of maritime units.

The yard has a deep-water quay, making it possible to receive large offshore installations.

“As Farmar has an ownership stake in Green Yard, it is natural for us to contribute vessels and capacity when the yard at Feda requires it,” says Farmar Managing Director John W. Nilsen.

THE RIG OCEAN GreatWhite has been at the yard since the summer of 2025. It is owned by Noble Corporation and is among the world’s most advanced rigs for harsh weather and offshore environments.

The rig entered service in 2016 and was built to operate in water depths of up to 3,000 metres, with drilling capacity down to 10,670 metres. On board, there is accommodation for up to 180 people, and the rig is equipped with modern drilling systems from NOV.

The rig is at the yard in Feda for maintenance, demobilisation and various upgrades.