Launch of operations for the Marine XII project in the Congo: A look back at the preparations and mobilisation at sea

11 March 2025 Projects

Geocean, under contract with Wison New Energies, is responsible for transporting and installation of the FLNG mooring system for for for Eni’s FLNG project in Congo. This project, located 33 metres below sea level off the coast of Pointe-Noire in the Congo, aims to exploit the gas reserves of the Marine XII block to produce low-carbon LNG for national and international markets.

A few days ago, the Jack up barge “La Sianna” (JUB) arrived at the project site, 50 kilometres off the coast of Pointe Noire. Prepared and equipped on the quayside, she is now fully operational to complete all the project stages. At the same time, the PSV (Platform Supply Vessel) has also been mobilised to transport the most extensive supplies to the site. Offshore operations are now underway!

Summary of preparations at Pointe-Noire

Over the past few weeks, we have mobilised and assembled all the necessary equipment at the port of Pointe-Noire. The drilling and cementing units have been prepared and assembled on site, thus guaranteeing a reliable and ready-to-use configuration. The diving spread, including a decompression chamber, a control cabin, and two diving lifts (LARS), is already mobilised on board the barge, and the ROV is responsible for underwater inspection. Safety and quality control protocols have also checked and loadedthe piles and vibro hammer vibration equipment required for installation of the piles.

The objective? To ensure a fast and reliable start when it arrives on site.

Arrival at sea: Jack up barge & PSV in action

Once the JUB and the PSV were positioned offshore, our teams began installing the drilling template and the casing, two fundamental operations before drilling could begin. This configuration allows the first anchor pile to be installed in optimal conditions.

The logistical support provided by the PSV is crucial: it plays a key role in delivering integrated components and installation aids. In addition, the PSV serves as an assistance platform for the teams, facilitating the transit of people and goods between the land base and the area of operation.

Launch of operations

Everything is ready to launch the first drilling phase and install the first pile. This stage represents the core of our project, as it will determine the final structure’s solidity, reliability and position.

The drilling operations require millimetric precision and in-depth knowledge of the site’s geological characteristics and marine constraints. Before installing the anchor piles, a template will be positioned to ensure this precision and define the exact drilling location. This will be the first major underwater operation.

Thanks to the cooperation of our various teams – engineers, technicians, divers and logisticians – we are in the best position to carry out these offshore operations.

With mobilisation and equipment assembly completed, drilling has begun, and the three piles are installed before the base structure is finalised. At the same time, we remain attentive to the quality of our operations, the safety of our teams, and the protection of the marine environment.

To find out more about the project’s progress or ask questions, join us today on our LinkedIn page, Geocean, or on our website, www.geocean.com.

This new phase marks a decisive stage in the project’s realisation, the success of which will depend on the rigour of our teams and the efficiency of the resources deployed. We look forward to seeing you soon for a new progress report, where we will share the initial results obtained and the project’s overall progress.