SBM Offshore hires Nortrans flotel for long-term gig in Angolan waters

June 26, 2026, by Melisa Cavcic

Singapore’s offshore and shipping company Nortrans Offshore has secured a flotel assignment at Block 15 off the coast of Angola with Netherlands-based SBM Offshore, a provider of the design, construction, installation, and operation of offshore floating facilities.

Nortrans Offshore’s 500-POB MSU DP3 Nor Spirit flotel has been awarded a two-year contract to assist SBM Offshore during Block 15’s offshore operations in Angola. The charter enables the flotel to support the life extension program for the FPSO Saxi and the FPSO Mondo, providing offshore accommodation and support services during the offshore life-extension activities campaign.

The shipping player emphasized: “With her proven DP3 capabilities, continuous gangway connection functionality, and large accommodation capacity, Nor Spirit is well-positioned to support safe and efficient offshore operations throughout the project.

“This award further strengthens our presence in the offshore accommodation market, and we sincerely thank SBM Offshore, ExxonMobil as Block 15 operator, and all partners involved for their continued trust and confidence in our team and assets.”

Block 15 is operated by ExxonMobil in partnership with Azule Energy, Equinor, and Sonangol. SBM Offshore secured ownership and operations until 2032 as a result of the contract extension for the FPSOs Mondo and Saxi Batuque.

Nortrans’ deal comes nearly two months after Subsea Integration Alliance (SIA) was booked by ExxonMobil to handle the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation (EPCI) scope of work at the Redevelopment 2.0 Likembe oil project in Block 15 offshore Angola.