Mariner platform modules arrive off Shetland

PLATFORM topside modules for the Mariner oil field, 93 miles east of Shetland, have started arriving off the isles.

The 216-metre heavy load vessel Forte has been lying off Gulberwick for a number of days carrying two of the modules.

Statoil spokeswoman Emma White said on Thursday that as many as four heavy load carriers would arrive off Shetland from South Korea over the coming weeks in preparation of installation.

The Mariner field is due to start production next year and once fully operational it is expected to produce 55,000 barrels of heavy oil per day.

“In total there will be four vessels coming up to Shetland, waiting for the heavy lift operation to install them offshore,” White said.

“Through the month of July, we will start to hook up and commissioning the field, which will be complete next year.”