Transocean Agrees to Sell Three U.S. GoM Jackups

Transocean Inc. has entered into a definitive agreement with Hercules Offshore, Inc. to sell three of its U.S. Gulf of Mexico jackup drilling rigs and related equipment for $320m. The sales of the GSF Adriatic III, GSF High Island I and GSF High Island VIII will mark Transocean's exit from the shallow-water area of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. The sales are expected to be consummated at the conclusion of each rig's current contract commitment and are subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. The agreement has been approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies.

Built in 1982, the GSF Adriatic III is a Marathon LeTourneau 116C design jackup with a water depth capability of 350 feet. Built in 1979 and 1981, respectively, the GSF High Island I and the GSF High Island VIII are Marathon LeTourneau 82-SDC design jackups with a water depth capability of up to 250 feet.