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The Athena Supply Vessel Encountered Technical Problem Offshore Congo

Bourbon Offshore 06-29-2007

The Athena, a Bourbon fleet multi purpose supply vessel operating under contract with Total E&P Congo, reported a technical incident provoking entry of water in the engine room.

The MPSV was 15 nautical miles off the coast of Congo, in transit between the oil fields of Likouala and East Tchibouela when the incident occurred.

In conformity with Bourbon and Total's safety management procedures, emergency committees were put in place immediately, on site in Pointe Noire and in France.

To optimize operations the anchor was dropped to immobilize the ship and the engine compartments were cut off. The 63 people on board (26 crew members and 37 technicians) were immediately evacuated onto Total's barge situated in the vicinity.

The Athena was then towed by Achille, a Bourbon fleet Anchor Handling Tug Supply Vessel also under contract with Total E & P Congo, to the outer roadstead of Pointe Noire, where it is sheltering and safe.

All preventive measures have been taken and no pollution has been reported.

Pumping and water tightness of the hull are in progress before transferring the vessel to a shipyard for dry dock and repair.