UPDATED: Oil exploration mission progressing well in Jamaica's off-shore

Tullow Oil is reporting steady progress in its oil exploration 3D seismic survey with just over 45 per cent of the data capture already completed.

The survey, the most advanced study to be carried out in Jamaica’s off-shore, is being conducted under an agreement between the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica (PCJ) and Tullow. 

The PCJ said the process involves a detailed examination of the ocean’s subsurface in a 2,250 square kilometre 3D polygon in the Morant Basin area south of Jamaica. 

Sound waves are being used to generate images of formations beneath the seafloor which will then be analysed for indicators of oil and gas reservoirs.

The project began in early April when the streamer was deployed arrived.

"We are following the progress of the 3D seismic survey quite closely because the information that is captured over the next few weeks can be critical in determining the future direction of our oil and gas programme," said PCJ Group General Manager, Winston Watson.

The seismic work will last between 50 and 60 days.

It may take another 12 to 18 months to analyse the data.

"Although it will be a while before we have any definitive findings, these investigations will heavily influence the decision-making about drilling so we are monitoring the entire process closely,” said Watson.

NOTE: An earlier version of this story had said may take another 12 to 18 days to analyse the data. That was incorrect. The PCJ says it will actually take another 12 to 18 months.

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