After more than eight years of producing natural gas offshore Kribi, Cameroon, the Hilli Episeyo floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) unit is on its way to a new chapter in South America. Norwegian engineering firm CoreMarine has completed the disconnection and removal operations that free the vessel for redeployment to Argentina’s emerging LNG export market.
Eight‑year service record off Cameroon
The Hilli Episeyo FLNG, owned by Golar LNG, began delivering gas from the offshore Kribi field in 2018 and has since operated continuously at a rated capacity of roughly 2.45 million tonnes per annum (mtpa). Splash247 highlighted that the unit’s Cameroon contract officially lapsed in July 2026, marking the end of its scheduled production period. During its tenure, the FLNG supplied gas to local power plants and contributed to regional energy security, although precise output figures beyond the design capacity were not disclosed.
CoreMarine’s disconnection campaign
The engineering and project‑management work required to separate a floating processing plant from an offshore mooring system is technically demanding. Offshore Energy reported that CoreMarine wrapped up the disconnection of the FLNG off Cameroon, clearing the way for the vessel to depart Africa. Splash247 added that CoreMarine’s scope covered project management, engineering, procurement and operational services throughout the campaign, underscoring the firm’s role in both planning and execution.
Both outlets agree that the successful completion of these tasks marks a “fast‑track” achievement given the tight timeframe imposed by the contract expiry. The vessel was liberated from its soft‑yoke (SSY) mooring arrangement at Kribi and prepared for transit, with the removal work concluding shortly after July 2026.
Transit to Singapore for life‑extension works
Following clearance, the FLNG set sail for Singapore, where it will undergo a series of upgrades intended to extend its operational life. Splash247 detailed that the upgrade programme includes winterisation measures and the installation of a new soft‑yoke mooring system – an improvement designed to enhance reliability in colder latitudes such as those encountered off Argentina’s southern coast.
The vessel’s journey to Singapore also provides an opportunity for comprehensive inspections, replacement of wear items, and integration of updated control software. Although specific timelines were not disclosed, the ship is expected to spend several months in Asian yards before proceeding to its final destination.
Redeployment to Argentina under a 20‑year charter
CoreMarine’s involvement does not end with the upgrade phase. Both sources confirm that the FLNG has been earmarked for a new, long‑term charter supporting Argentina’s LNG export ambitions. Splash247 reports that the vessel will join a 20‑year charter arrangement, during which it is slated to operate in Golfo San Matías alongside Golar’s MKII FLNG unit.
According to the same outlet, CoreMarine secured a separate contract in April 2026 to transport and install the soft‑yoke mooring system for both Hilli Episeyo and the newer MKII unit. The coordinated deployment aims to create a dual‑FLNG hub capable of processing Argentine natural gas reserves for shipment to international markets.
Gerardo Rodriguez, lead project manager at CoreMarine, is quoted by Splash247 as saying: “The technical complexity and fast‑track nature of this project highlight CoreMarine’s engineering expertise and our ability to deliver demanding offshore solutions within tight timeframes.” While the quote originates from Splash247, it reinforces the strategic importance placed on meeting Argentina’s export timetable.
Timeline toward operational start in Golfo San Matías
The upgraded FLNG is scheduled to leave Singapore after its life‑extension works and head directly for Argentina. Splash247 indicates that the vessel should arrive in Golfo San Matías by mid‑2027, where it will be moored using the newly installed soft‑yoke system and undergo final commissioning alongside the MKII unit.
Once commissioned, the combined capacity of both FLNGs is expected to exceed 4 mtpa, positioning Argentina as a credible LNG exporter in the Southern Hemisphere. The deployment aligns with broader regional efforts to monetize offshore gas fields while reducing reliance on land‑based processing infrastructure.
What this means for operators
The Hilli Episeyo transition illustrates several practical takeaways for maritime and offshore operators. First, the successful disconnection of a large FLNG after an extended service period demonstrates that well‑planned engineering interventions can free assets for redeployment without extensive downtime, preserving vessel value.
Second, integrating life‑extension upgrades—particularly winterisation and mooring enhancements—in a dedicated shipyard window offers a cost‑effective pathway to extend asset lifespans and adapt to new climatic regimes. Operators contemplating similar moves should factor in sufficient lead time for yard availability and engineering design verification.
Finally, the 20‑year charter model adopted by Golar LNG showcases how long‑term agreements can underpin market entry strategies in emerging export regions. Shipping companies that can provide end‑to‑end services—from disconnection through upgrade to final mooring installation—stand to secure lucrative contracts and foster deeper client relationships across multiple geographies.