Initial results from a 3D seismic survey on Bahamas blocks is encouraging, and technical studies and well planning represent the final phase of derisking in preparation for exploratory drilling by March 2013, said Bahamas Petroleum Co. PLC.
Data quality is excellent, and data volumes have been received in both time and depth. Detailed interpretation is under way and will form the basis for well location selection, well design, and planning, the company said (see map, OGJ, July 13, 2009, p. 34).
Processing at this initial stage has been completed with 4 ms sampling and three tomographic velocity iterations. Further processing will be carried out in coming months with more detailed analysis and interpretation refined for specific targets, mapping of seismic facies, and attribute analysis.
Early stage interpretation of the new data confirmed and better defines the prospective structures seen on the previous 2D data.
The data provide encouragement regarding source maturity and fetch area. The 3D indicates the “basement” to be deeper than interpreted previously, implying a thicker, deeper Jurassic source rock section. Further, the interpretation indicates a uniform southwest dip under the Cretaceous platform indicating access to a large fetch area toward the Cuban mainland under the North Cuban basin.