1. n. [Drilling]

A maritime vessel modified to include a drilling rig and special station-keeping equipment. The vessel is typically capable of operating in deep water. A drillship must stay relatively stationary on location in the water for extended periods of time. This positioning may be accomplished with multiple anchors, dynamic propulsion (thrusters) or a combination of these. Drillships typically carry larger payloads than semisubmersible drilling vessels, but their motion characteristics are usually inferior.

See related terms: dynamic positioning,  moon pool