Dolphin Geophysical has received a letter of intent by Shell South Africa Upstream B.V. for up to 8,000-sq-km 3-D seismic acquisition offshore South Africa.

The survey will be acquired by M/V Polar Duchess and will commence in 4Q 2012.

M/V Polar Duchess is a purpose built high-end 3D seismic vessel, capable of towing 14 streamers at 100 m (328 ft) separation.

"We are very pleased to be working for Shell on this survey, our first for a super-major” says Atle Jacobsen, CEO “This is the second high profile 3D job that Dolphin have been awarded this month and is a confirmation that Dolphin Geophysical have developed into becoming a recognised supplier of seismic services after only 18 months in business".