Floating Production Storage and Offloading

Abbreviation: FPSO

Vessel that processes hydrocarbons from a subsea well, stores the production in cargo tanks, and offloads to shuttle tankers.

In practice

Static-station operation on a single field; class survey arranged in-place every 5 years. Crew run 28-day rotations typically.

Regulatory detail & full definition

Permanently moored on field for 15-25 years. Often a converted VLCC hull. Topsides processing modules: separation, gas treatment, water injection, gas re-injection, oil export. Key operators in Brazil (Petrobras, MODEC), West Africa (TotalEnergies, Shell), North Sea (Bluewater, BW Offshore). Crew 50-150.

Authoritative source: International Maritime Organization ↗

Anchor Handling Tug Supply

Source: IMO Res. A.671(16); industry usage

High confidence

Editorial confidence: how we grade.

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Floating Production Storage and Offloading

In practice

Related

Floating Production Storage and Offloading

In practice

Related