Extension of drilling contract for Bredford Dolphin

Fred. Olsen Energy ASA has, via its subsidiary, Dolphin Drilling Ltd, received notification of a contract extension from Agip Gas BV for the semi-submersible drilling rig Bredford Dolphin. The rig has been operating offshore Libya since March 2003. The extended contract is on the same terms and conditions as the current contract and includes a rig rate of approximately $64,000 per day. The extension period covers the time to drill one additional well and test and complete five sub sea wells and is expected to keep the rig employed towards the end of second quarter 2004.