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Note: Vessel information is updated daily. All times are local port time.
Port Overview
Prelude is a unique maritime facility located in the northwest of Australia, specifically positioned in the Browse Basin off the coast of Western Australia. This extraordinary port is not a traditional land-based port, but a revolutionary floating liquefied natural gas (FLNG) facility, representing a groundbreaking approach to offshore resource extraction and processing. Developed by Shell, Prelude FLNG is the world’s first floating LNG production, storage, and offloading facility, marking a significant milestone in maritime and energy infrastructure.
Geographic Location & Access
Situated at coordinates 13.7827°S, 123.318°E, Prelude is located approximately 475 kilometers northwest of Broome in the pristine waters of the Browse Basin. The facility operates in a remote offshore environment characterized by challenging marine conditions typical of northwestern Australian waters. Its strategic positioning allows direct access to significant natural gas reserves while minimizing environmental impact on coastal regions.
Port Infrastructure & Facilities
As a floating LNG facility, Prelude represents a radical departure from conventional port infrastructure. The vessel measures approximately 488 meters in length and 74 meters in width, with a massive displacement of 600,000 tonnes. Key infrastructure includes:
– Integrated LNG production and processing capabilities
– Onboard storage tanks with 175,000 m³ LNG capacity
– Advanced processing equipment for natural gas liquefaction
– Dynamic positioning systems ensuring stable offshore operations
– Comprehensive safety and emergency response facilities
– Specialized mooring and offloading infrastructure
Technical Specifications
– Maximum Draft: 50 meters (as specified)
– Vessel Displacement: Approximately 600,000 tonnes
– Production Capacity: 3.6 million tonnes of LNG per annum
– Operating Depth Range: 200-250 meters
– Extreme Weather Resilience: Designed to withstand Category 5 cyclone conditions
– Vessel Accommodation: Approximately 120-140 personnel
Operational Services
Prelude offers specialized offshore LNG production services, including:
– Continuous natural gas processing
– LNG storage and direct vessel-to-vessel transfer
– Advanced safety and environmental monitoring systems
– 24/7 operational capabilities
– Integrated meteorological and oceanographic monitoring
– Emergency response and maritime safety protocols
Commercial & Economic Aspects
The Prelude FLNG facility represents a significant investment in Australia’s energy infrastructure, with estimated project costs exceeding USD 12 billion. Its innovative design allows:
– Reduced onshore infrastructure requirements
– Minimized environmental footprint
– Flexible production and export capabilities
– Direct access to international LNG markets
– Reduced transportation and processing costs
Strategic Importance
Prelude symbolizes a transformative approach to offshore resource extraction, demonstrating:
– Technological innovation in maritime engineering
– Enhanced operational flexibility
– Reduced environmental impact
– Expanded access to remote hydrocarbon reserves
– Potential blueprint for future offshore energy infrastructure
Competitive Advantages
– First commercial floating LNG facility globally
– Unprecedented operational flexibility
– Reduced capital and operational expenditures
– Enhanced safety through remote offshore
PRELUDE
