A novel drydocking operation has commenced in Mexico, following the successful loading of the 11,220 tonnes semi-submersible rig Mata Redonda on the main deck of Zhong Ren 3, the world’s largest semi-submersible barge. Rotterdam-based ocean towage and heavy transportation specialists Fairmount Marine won the contract for the drydocking, using the 50,000 dwt Zhong Ren 3 as the platform. Fairmount President Henk van den Berg says: “The loading of Mata Redonda was performed in complete safety at a position some six miles off Tampico, Mexico. A project team from Tampico’s Bosnar Yard is now busy on the rig’s programme of maintenance and associated works, which is expected to take around 60 days. “This is the first deployment of Zhong Ren 3 as a drydocking platform.