US explorer W&T Offshore's ST 224 #1 exploration well, in the South Timbalier license in the US Gulf of Mexico, was considered water bearing, according to partner Otto Energy.
The well was drilled in 170ft water depth using the Enterprise 264 jackup and reached a total measured depth of 10,900ft (3322m).
The targeted BN sand interval was intersected close to prognosis at 10,330ft (3149m) measured depth, however, based on log observations the sand is considered to be water bearing, says Otto. ST 224 #1 will now be plugged and abandoned.
The drilling program was targeting a large, amplitude-supported, high condensate to gas ratio gas condensate exploration prospect in the prolific Bul. 1 trend.
Otto’s Managing Director, Matthew Allen, commented: “The outcome of the ST224 #1 exploration well is a disappointing start to the drilling program that Otto is currently involved in. Otto looks forward to the outcome of the SM 71 F2 well in the coming weeks.”