20-F

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 20-F

¨ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 or 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012

OR

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

¨ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Commission file number 001-35345

PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

Not Applicable

(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)

Luxembourg

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

37, rue d’Anvers

L-1130 Luxembourg

(Address of principal executive offices)

Kinga E. Doris

Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

3050 Post Oak Blvd., Suite 1500

Houston, Texas 77056

Phone (832) 255-0519

Fax (832) 201-9883

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

Title of each class	Name of each exchange on which registered
Common shares, $0.01 par value per share	New York Stock Exchange

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act. None.

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act. None.

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

As of December 31, 2012, there were 216,902,000 shares outstanding.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes  ¨  No  x

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  Yes  ¨  No  x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes  x  No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes  x  No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of accelerated filer and large accelerated filer in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer  ¨ Accelerated filer  x Non-accelerated filer  ¨

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

U.S. GAAP  x	International Financial Reporting Standards as issued	Other  ¨
	by the International Accounting Standards Board  ¨

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.  Item 17  ¨  Item 18  ¨

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes  ¨  No  x

TABLE OF CONTENTS

	Page
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS		5
PART I		6
ITEM 1.         IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS		6
ITEM 2.        OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE		6
ITEM 3.        KEY INFORMATION		7
A. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA		7
B. CAPITALIZATION AND INDEBTEDNESS		9
C. REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND USE OF PROCEEDS		9
D. RISK FACTORS		9
ITEM 4.        INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY		33
A. HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY		33
B. BUSINESS OVERVIEW		35
C. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE		48
D. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT		48
ITEM 4A.     UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS		51
ITEM 5.         OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS		51
A. OPERATING RESULTS		51
B. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES		61
C. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENSES, ETC.		68
D. TREND INFORMATION		68
E. OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS		69
F. CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS		70
G. SAFE HARBOR		70
ITEM 6.        DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES		70
A. DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT		70
B. COMPENSATION		74
C. BOARD PRACTICES		75
D. EMPLOYEES		77
E. SHARE OWNERSHIP		78
ITEM 7.         MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS		79
A. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS		79
B. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS		79
C. INTERESTS OF EXPERTS AND COUNSEL		80
ITEM 8.        FINANCIAL INFORMATION		80
A. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION		80
B. SIGNIFICANT CHANGES		81
ITEM 9.        THE OFFER AND LISTING		81
A. OFFER AND LISTING DETAILS		81
B. PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION		82
C. MARKETS		82
D. SELLING SHAREHOLDERS		82
E. DILUTION		82
F. EXPENSES OF THE ISSUE		82
ITEM 10.     ADDITIONAL INFORMATION		82
A. SHARE CAPITAL		82
B. MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION		82
C. MATERIAL CONTRACTS		88
D. EXCHANGE CONTROLS		88
E. TAXATION		89

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	Page
F. DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENTS		95
G. STATEMENT BY EXPERTS		95
H. DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY		95
I. SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION		96
ITEM 11.     QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK		97
ITEM 12.     DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES		97
A. DEBT SECURITIES		97
B. WARRANTS AND RIGHTS		97
C. OTHER SECURITIES		97
D. AMERICAN DEPOSITORY SHARES		97
PART II		98
ITEM 13.     DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES		98
ITEM 14.      MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS		98
ITEM 15.     CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES		98
ITEM 16.     RESERVED		99
ITEM 16A.  AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT		99
ITEM 16B.  CODE OF ETHICS		99
ITEM 16C.  PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES		99
ITEM 16D.  EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES		100
ITEM 16E.  PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS		100
ITEM 16F.  CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT		100
ITEM 16G.  CORPORATE GOVERNANCE		100
ITEM 16H.  MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE		101
PART III		101
ITEM 17.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS		101
ITEM 18.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS		101
ITEM 19.    EXHIBITS		102

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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This annual report contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Where any forward-looking statement includes a statement about the assumptions or bases underlying the forward-looking statement, we caution that, while we believe these assumptions or bases to be reasonable and made in good faith, assumed facts or bases almost always vary from the actual results, and the differences between assumed facts or bases and actual results can be material, depending upon the circumstances. Where, in any forward-looking statement, our management expresses an expectation or belief as to future results, such expectation or belief is expressed in good faith and is believed to have a reasonable basis. We cannot assure you, however, that the statement of expectation or belief will result or be achieved or accomplished. These statements relate to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. These statements also relate to our future prospects, developments and business strategies. Forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “will” and similar terms and phrases, including references to assumptions. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual future activities and results of operations to be materially different from those suggested or described in this annual report. These risks include the risks that are identified in the “Risk Factors” section of this annual report, and also include, among others, risks associated with the following:

• oil and gas market and its impact on demand for our services, including supply and demand for oil and gas and expectations regarding future energy prices;

• our substantial level of indebtedness;

• our need for cash to meet our debt service obligations;

• our limited number of assets and small number of customers;

• downtime of our drillships;

• competition within our industry;

• oversupply of rigs competing with our rigs;

• termination of our customer contracts;

• restrictions on offshore drilling, including the impact of the Deepwater Horizon incident on offshore drilling;

• strikes and work stoppages;

• corruption, militant activities, political instability, ethnic unrest and regionalism in Nigeria and other countries where we may operate;

• delays and cost overruns in construction projects;

• our limited operating history;

• our ability to incur additional indebtedness and compliance with restrictions and covenants in our debt agreements;

• our levels of operating and maintenance costs;

• availability of skilled workers and the related labor costs;

• compliance with governmental, tax, environmental and safety regulation;

• any non-compliance with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the United Kingdom’s Anti-Bribery Act or any other anti bribery laws;

• reduced expenditures by oil and natural gas exploration and production companies;

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• general economic conditions and conditions in the oil and natural gas industry;

• our dependence on key personnel;

• operating hazards in the oilfield services industry;

• adequacy of insurance coverage in the event of a catastrophic event;

• our ability to obtain indemnity from customers;

• the volatility of the price of our common shares;

• changes in tax laws, treaties or regulations;

• effects of new products and new technology in our industry;

• our incorporation under the laws of Luxembourg and the limited rights to relief that may be available compared to other countries, including the United States; and

• potential conflicts of interest between our controlling shareholder and our public shareholders.

Any forward-looking statements contained in this annual report should not be relied upon as predictions of future events. No assurance can be given that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements will prove to be correct. Actual results could differ materially from expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements if one or more of the underlying assumptions or expectations proves to be inaccurate or is not realized. You should thoroughly read this annual report with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from and worse than what we expect. Other sections of this annual report include additional factors that could adversely impact our business and financial performance. Moreover, we operate in an evolving environment. Some important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are, in certain instances, included with such forward-looking statements and in “Risk Factors” in this annual report. Additionally, new risk factors and uncertainties emerge from time to time and it is not possible for our management to predict all risk factors and uncertainties, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. We qualify all of the forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this annual report, which represent the best judgment of our management. Such statements, estimates and projections reflect various assumptions made by us concerning anticipated results, which are subject to business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control and which may or may not prove to be correct. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

PART I

As used in this annual report, unless the context otherwise requires, references to “Pacific Drilling,” the “Company,” “we,” “us,” “our” and words of similar import refer to Pacific Drilling S.A. and its subsidiaries. Unless otherwise indicated, all references to “U.S.$” and “$” in this report are to, and amounts are represented in, United States dollars.

ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

Not applicable.

ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not applicable.

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ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION

A. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

You should read the following selected consolidated financial data in conjunction with Item 5, “Operating Results” and our historical consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto included elsewhere in this annual report. The financial information included in this annual report may not be indicative of our future results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

Pacific Drilling S.A. was formed as a Luxembourg corporation under the form of a société anonyme to act as an indirect holding company for its predecessor, Pacific Drilling Limited (our “Predecessor”), a company organized under the laws of Liberia, and its subsidiaries in connection with a corporate reorganization completed on March 30, 2011, referred to in this annual report as the “Restructuring.” In connection with the Restructuring, our Predecessor was contributed to a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company by a subsidiary of Quantum Pacific International Limited, a British Virgin Islands company and parent company of an investment holdings group (the “Quantum Pacific Group”). The Company did not engage in any business or other activities prior to the Restructuring except in connection with its formation and the Restructuring. The Restructuring was limited to entities that were all under the control of the Quantum Pacific Group and its affiliates, and, as such, the Restructuring was accounted for as a transaction between entities under common control. As a result, the consolidated financial statements of Pacific Drilling S.A. are presented using the historical values of the Predecessor’s financial statements on a combined basis. However, the issued share capital of Pacific Drilling S.A. is retrospectively reflected for all periods in the selected historical consolidated financial data to reflect the 150,000,000 common shares held by the Quantum Pacific Group at the completion of the Restructuring. The financial information relating to the Company and its subsidiaries have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) and are in U.S. dollars.

In 2007, our Predecessor entered into various agreements with Transocean Ltd. (“Transocean”) and its subsidiaries, which culminated in the formation of a joint venture company, Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc. (“TPDI” or the “Joint Venture”), which was owned 50% by our Predecessor and 50% by a subsidiary of Transocean. On March 30, 2011, in connection with the Restructuring, our Predecessor assigned its equity interest in TPDI to another subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group for no consideration, which is referred to in this annual report as the “TPDI Transfer,” to enable the Company to focus on the operation and marketing of the Company’s wholly-owned fleet. As a result, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries currently owns any interest in TPDI and, beginning in the second quarter of 2011, the results of operations of TPDI are no longer included in the financial results of the Company.

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Set forth below are (i) selected historical consolidated financial data as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, which have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report, (ii) selected historical consolidated financial data as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 and for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, which have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements not included in this annual report and (iii) selected historical consolidated financial data as of December 31, 2008, which have been derived from our unaudited consolidated financial statements not included in this annual report.

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010			2009			2008
	(in thousands, except share and per share data)
Statement of operations data:
Revenues
Contract drilling	$	638,050		$	65,431		$	—		$	—		$	—
Costs and expenses
Contract drilling		(331,495	)		(32,142	)		—			—			—
General and administrative expenses		(45,386	)		(52,614	)		(19,715	)		(8,824	)		(1,589	)
Depreciation expense		(127,698	)		(11,619	)		(395	)		(134	)		—
		(504,579	)		(96,375	)		(20,110	)		(8,958	)		(1,589	)
Loss of hire insurance recovery		23,671			18,500			—			—			—
Operating income (loss)		157,142			(12,444	)		(20,110	)		(8,958	)		(1,589	)
Other income (expense)
Equity in earnings of Joint Venture		—			18,955			56,307			4,291			(679	)
Interest income from Joint Venture		—			495			1,973			2,141			7,763
Interest expense		(104,685	)		(10,384	)		(858	)		—			—
Other income		3,245			3,675			(62	)		274			—
Income (loss) before income taxes		55,702			297			37,250			(2,252	)		5,495
Income tax expense		(21,713	)		(3,200	)		49			(31	)		(4	)
Net income (loss)	$	33,989		$	(2,903	)	$	37,299		$	(2,283	)	$	5,491
Earnings (loss) per common share, basic	$	0.16		$	(0.01	)	$	0.25		$	(0.02	)	$	0.04
Weighted average number of common shares, basic(1)		216,901,000			195,447,944			150,000,000			150,000,000			150,000,000
Earnings (loss) per common share, diluted	$	0.16		$	(0.01	)	$	0.25		$	(0.02	)	$	0.04
Weighted average number of common shares, diluted(1)		216,903,159			195,447,944			150,000,000			150,000,000			150,000,000

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012		2011		2010		2009		2008
					(in thousands)				(unaudited)
Balance sheet data:
Working capital(2)	$	522,390	$	115,462	$	14,482	$	4,008	$	(39	)
Property and equipment, net		3,760,421		3,436,010		1,893,425		927,556		737,751
Investment in and notes to TPDI		—		—		186,714		147,857		102,325
Total assets		4,893,928		4,184,289		2,271,949		1,087,291		841,580
Long-term debt(3)		2,253,708		1,675,000		450,000		—		—
Related-party loan		—		—		—		832,642		633,997
Accrued interest payable on related-party loan		—		—		—		39,019		—
Shareholders’ equity		2,315,248		2,274,073		1,775,207		207,749		206,040

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(1) Retrospectively adjusted for all periods to reflect the issued share capital of Pacific Drilling S.A. following the Restructuring.

(2) Working capital is defined as current assets minus current liabilities.

(3) Includes current maturities of long-term debt.

B. CAPITALIZATION AND INDEBTEDNESS

Not applicable.

C. REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Not applicable.

D. RISK FACTORS

An investment in our common shares involves a high degree of risk. You should consider carefully the following risk factors, as well as the other information contained in this annual report, before making an investment in our common shares. Any of the risk factors described below could significantly and negatively affect our business, financial condition or operating results, which may reduce our ability to pay dividends and lower the trading price of our common shares. You may lose part or all of your investment.

Risks Related to Our Business

The demand for our services depends on the level of activity in the offshore oil and natural gas industry, which is significantly affected by, among other things, volatile oil and natural gas prices and may be materially and adversely affected by a decline in the offshore oil and gas industry.

The offshore contract drilling industry is cyclical and volatile. The demand for our services depends on the level of activity in oil and natural gas exploration, development and production in offshore areas worldwide. The availability of quality drilling prospects, exploration success, relative production costs, the stage of reservoir development and political and regulatory environments affect customers’ drilling programs. Oil and natural gas prices and market expectations of potential changes in these prices also significantly affect this level of activity and demand for drilling units.

Oil and natural gas prices are extremely volatile and are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including the following:

• worldwide production and demand for oil and natural gas and any geographical dislocations in supply and demand;

• the cost of exploring for, developing, producing and delivering oil and natural gas, and the relative cost of onshore production or importation of natural gas;

• expectations regarding future production and prices of oil and natural gas;

• advances in exploration, development and production technology;

• the ability of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (“OPEC”) to set and maintain production levels and affect pricing;

• the level of production in non-OPEC countries;

• government regulations;

• local and international political and economic conditions;

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• domestic and foreign tax policies;

• development and exploitation of alternative fuels;

• the policies of various governments regarding exploration and development of their oil and natural gas reserves; and

• the worldwide social and political environment, including uncertainty or instability resulting from an escalation or additional outbreak of armed hostilities, insurrection or other crises in the Middle East or other geographic areas or further acts of terrorism in the United States, or elsewhere.

Declines in oil and gas prices for an extended period of time, or market expectations of potential decreases in these prices, could negatively affect our business in the offshore drilling sector. Sustained periods of low oil prices typically result in reduced exploration and drilling. These changes in commodity prices can have a dramatic effect on rig demand, and periods of low demand can cause excess rig supply and intensify the competition in the industry which often results in drilling units, particularly older and lower technical specification drilling units, being idle for long periods of time. We cannot predict the future level of demand for our services or future conditions of the oil and gas industry. Any decrease in exploration, development or production expenditures by oil and gas companies could reduce our revenues and materially harm our business and results of operations.

In addition to oil and natural gas prices, the offshore drilling industry is influenced by additional factors, including:

• the availability of competing offshore drilling vessels and the level of newbuilding activity for drilling vessels;

• the level of costs for associated offshore oilfield and construction services;

• the discovery of new oil and gas reserves and their relative production costs;

• the relative cost of non-conventional energy sources; and

• regulatory restrictions on offshore drilling.

Any of these factors could reduce demand for our services and adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Our substantial indebtedness could adversely affect our financial condition and business prospects.

As of February 15, 2013, we and our subsidiaries, on a consolidated basis, had approximately (i) $2,202 million of debt, comprised of $1,402 million borrowed under our Project Facilities Agreement that is secured by the equity interests in and substantially all of the assets of Pacific Bora Ltd., Pacific Mistral Ltd., Pacific Scirocco Ltd. and Pacific Santa Ana S.à r.l., (ii) $500 million aggregate principal amount of 2017 Senior Secured Notes to be secured by a first-priority security interest (subject to exceptions) in the Pacific Khamsin upon delivery, and substantially all the other assets of Pacific Drilling V Limited, including an assignment of earnings and insurance proceeds related to the Pacific Khamsin and (iii) $300 million aggregate principal amount of 8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds due 2015 (each as defined and described in further detail in Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness”). Additionally, in February 2013 we entered into a $1.0 billion Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement that will be secured by the equity interests in and substantially all of the assets of Pacific Sharav S.à r.l. and Pacific Drilling VII Limited (as defined and described in further detail in Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness”). As of February 15, 2013, no amounts were borrowed under the Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement. Our substantial level of indebtedness, and the terms of the agreements that govern such indebtedness, may have important consequences on our business such as:

• requiring us and our subsidiaries to use a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to pay interest and principal on the debt, which would reduce the funds available for working capital, capital expenditures and other general corporate purposes;

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• limit our ability to obtain additional financing for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and other investments, which may limit our ability to execute our business strategy;

• heighten our vulnerability to downturns in business or the general economy and restrict us from exploiting business opportunities or making acquisitions;

• make it more difficult for us to satisfy our financial obligations;

• place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that may have proportionately less debt;

• limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate; and

• result in higher interest expense if interest rates increase for the portion of our indebtedness that has not been hedged.

Each of these factors may have a material and adverse effect on our financial condition and business prospects. We may also incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future. If we incur additional indebtedness, the related risks that we now face would intensify and could further exacerbate the risks associated with our substantial leverage. Our ability to service our debt depends upon, among other things, our future financial and operating performance, which is affected by prevailing economic conditions and financial, business, regulatory and other factors, some of which are beyond our control. If our cash flows from operations are not sufficient to service our current or future indebtedness, we will be forced to take actions such as reducing distributions, reducing or delaying our business activities, acquisitions, investments or capital expenditures, selling assets, restructuring or refinancing our debt, or seeking additional equity capital or bankruptcy protection. We may not be able to effect any of these remedies on satisfactory terms, or at all.

We will require a significant amount of cash to service our indebtedness and other obligations. Our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.

Our ability to make payments on, or refinance, our indebtedness and to fund working capital needs and planned capital expenditures will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future. A significant reduction in our operating cash flows, including as a result of changes in general economic conditions, timing of contracts or payments, legislative or regulatory conditions, increased competition or other events beyond our control, could increase the need for additional or alternative sources of liquidity and could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and ability to service our debt and other obligations. See Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness” for more information regarding our amortization payment schedule with respect to our borrowings under the Project Facilities Agreement, 2017 Senior Secured Notes and the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds. If we are unable to service our indebtedness or to fund our liquidity needs, we may be forced to adopt an alternative strategy that may include actions such as reducing capital expenditures, selling assets, restructuring or refinancing indebtedness, seeking additional equity capital or any combination of the foregoing. If we raise additional funds by issuing additional equity securities, existing shareholders may experience dilution. We cannot assure you that any of these alternative strategies could be effected on satisfactory terms, or at all, or that they would yield sufficient funds to enable us to make required payments on our indebtedness or to fund our other liquidity needs. Reducing or delaying capital expenditures or selling assets could delay future cash flows. In addition, the terms of existing or future debt agreements may restrict us from adopting any of these alternatives.

We have a limited asset base and currently rely on three customer accounts. The loss of any customer or significant downtime on any drillship attributable to unplanned maintenance, repairs or other factors could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

As a result of our relatively small fleet of drillships, we anticipate revenues will depend on contracts with a limited number of customers. We currently have eight drillships, four of which are operating under customer

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contract. Two of our operating drillships, the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Santa Ana, are working for subsidiaries of Chevron Corporation (“Chevron”). In addition, two of our drillships under construction, the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav, are also under contract with subsidiaries of Chevron. The Pacific Scirocco is operating with a subsidiary of Total S.A. (“Total”) and the Pacific Mistral is operating with a subsidiary of Petróleo Brasileiro S.A. (“Petrobras”).

Our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected if any one of these customers was to interrupt or curtail its activities in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, Nigeria or Brazil, fail to pay for the services that have been performed, terminate its contract with us, fail to renew its existing contract with us or refuse to award new contracts to us and we are unable to enter into contracts with new customers on comparable terms. The loss of Chevron, Total or Petrobras as a customer could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. In addition, our limited number of drillships makes us more susceptible to incremental loss in the event of downtime on any one operating unit. If any one of our drillships becomes inactive for a substantial period of time and not otherwise earning contractual revenues, it could have a material adverse impact on our operations and financial condition.

Our current backlog of contract drilling revenue may not be fully realized.

As of February 15, 2013, we had a contract backlog on the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Santa Ana, the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav of approximately $3.3 billion. We calculate our contract backlog by multiplying the contractual dayrate by the minimum number of days committed under the contracts (excluding options to extend), assuming full utilization, and also include mobilization fees, upgrade reimbursements and other revenue sources, such as the standby rate during upgrades, as stipulated in the contract. The actual amounts of revenues earned and the actual periods during which revenues are earned may differ from the amounts and periods shown in the tables provided in Item 4, “Business Overview—Contract Backlog” of this annual report due to various factors, including shipyard and maintenance projects, downtime and other factors. The contractual dayrate used to calculate average estimated contract backlog per day is higher than other rates that may be in effect at certain times under the contract, including the standby rate or waiting on weather rate, the repair rate or the force majeure rate. We may not be able to realize the full amount of our contract backlog due to events beyond our control. In addition, some of our customers may experience liquidity issues, which could worsen if commodity prices declined to lower levels for an extended period of time. Liquidity issues could lead our customers to go into bankruptcy or could encourage our customers to seek to repudiate, cancel or renegotiate these agreements for various reasons, as described under “—Our drilling contracts may be terminated early in certain circumstances” below. Our inability to realize the full amount of our contract backlog could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

We may experience downtime as a result of unscheduled repairs or maintenance, defective or failed equipment or delays waiting for replacement parts.

Unscheduled repairs or maintenance or defective or failed equipment on our drillships may cause us to experience unanticipated operational downtime, which may have an adverse effect on our results of operations.

In addition, we rely on certain third parties to provide supplies and services necessary for our offshore drilling operations, including, but not limited to, drilling equipment, catering and machinery suppliers. Recent mergers have reduced the number of available suppliers, resulting in fewer alternatives for sourcing key supplies. Such consolidation, combined with a high volume of drilling units under construction, may result in a shortage of supplies and services potentially inhibiting the ability of suppliers to deliver on time, or at all. These delays may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and result in downtime, and delays in the repair and maintenance of our drillships.

Our failure to generate sufficient operating cash flow or to achieve any of these alternatives could significantly adversely affect the value of our securities. In addition, if we default in the payment of amounts due

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on any current indebtedness, such default would give rise to an event of default under the agreements governing our indebtedness and could lead to the possible acceleration of amounts due under any of our outstanding indebtedness. In the event of any acceleration, we may not have enough cash to repay our outstanding indebtedness.

We have substantial obligations to fund contracts and other arrangements related to the construction of our newbuild drillships under construction. If we fail to meet these obligations or construction of these newbuild drillships is not completed, such failure could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and could adversely affect our ability to meet our obligations.

We have significant contractual commitments to Samsung Heavy Industries (“SHI”) related to the drillships currently under construction, the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our recently ordered eighth drillship, totaling approximately $1.6 billion as of February 15, 2013. The SHI contracts for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship provide for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $2.0 billion, payable in installments during the construction process, of which we have made payments of $449.9 million through February 15, 2013. We anticipate making payments of approximately $875 million in 2013, approximately $433 million in 2014 and approximately $336 million in 2015.

We will need to secure additional financing in order to fund construction of our eighth drillship. In addition, in the event that we order additional drillships, we will also need to secure funding for construction of such vessels. The final terms and availability of any financing for the obligations related to the construction of our eighth drillship will be determined by, among other factors, current financial market conditions, our creditworthiness and drilling industry conditions. We may be unable to obtain or arrange the financing for these new drillships on satisfactory terms. Also, these drillships could be delayed or otherwise not delivered by the shipyard. This could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

We intend to enter into drilling contracts for the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship prior to their delivery if market conditions permit. If one of our newbuild drillships is delayed, cancelled or not delivered as expected for any reason upon completion of construction, we will not be able to deliver the drillship to our customer under the drilling contract entered into for such drillship and for which we provide a performance guarantee. In such event, we will need to find a replacement unit that is acceptable to our customer. If we are unable to deliver an acceptable replacement, we will lose any anticipated income from the employment of such unit and may be held liable for the customer’s potential damages, including, but not limited to, any increase in rates between our current drilling contract with the customer and any substitute drilling contract such customer may obtain. If we were to lose all or a portion of our investment, including any anticipated revenue from the operation of a drillship, or become liable to a customer for such damages, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

The contract drilling industry is highly competitive. Compared to companies with greater resources, we may be at a competitive disadvantage.

The offshore contract drilling industry is highly competitive with numerous industry participants, none of which has a dominant market share. Drilling contracts are traditionally awarded on a competitive bid basis. The proposed dayrate is often the primary factor in determining which qualified contractor is awarded a contract, although rig availability and the quality and technical capability of service and equipment are also important factors. Other key factors include a contractor’s reputation for service, safety record, environmental record, technical and engineering support and long-term relationships with national and international oil and natural gas companies. Our competitors in the offshore contract drilling industry generally have larger, more diverse fleets, longer operating histories with established safety and environmental records over a measurable period of time, long-term relationships with customers and appreciably greater financial and other resources and assets than we do. Similarly, some of these competitors are significantly better capitalized than we are, which may make them

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preferable to us to the extent the customer is concerned about our ability to cover potentially significant liabilities. As a result, our competitors have competitive advantages that may adversely affect our efforts to contract our drillships on favorable terms, if at all, and correspondingly negatively impact our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Additionally, we are at a competitive disadvantage to those competitors that are better capitalized because they are in a better position to withstand the effects of a downturn in our industry.

An oversupply of rigs competing with our rigs could depress the demand and contract prices for ultra-deepwater rigs and could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

There are numerous rigs currently under contract for construction in the industry worldwide. We estimate there are approximately 50 ultra-deepwater rigs scheduled for delivery between January 1, 2013 and the end of 2015, 29 of which are not yet contracted to customers. The entry into service of these new units will increase supply and could curtail a strengthening, or trigger a reduction, in dayrates as rigs are absorbed into the active fleet. Any increase in construction of drilling units could negatively impact utilization and dayrates. Lower utilization and dayrates could require us to enter into lower dayrate contracts or to idle one or more of our drillships, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows or result in the recognition of impairment charges on our drillships.

Failure to secure drilling contracts prior to deployment of our remaining newbuild drillships or currently operating drillships after the expiration of existing contracts could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

We have not yet secured drilling contracts for the Pacific Meltem or our eighth drillship, which are being built by SHI and are scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of 2014 and the first quarter of 2015, respectively. In addition, the drilling contract on the Pacific Scirocco will terminate on January 7, 2014, unless Total chooses to exercise its option to extend the contract for another year. Our ability to obtain drilling contracts for these drillships will depend on market conditions and our customers’ drilling programs. If the ultra-deepwater drilling market is experiencing overcapacity when the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship are delivered or when the contracts on our currently operating drillships expire, we may not be able to contract these drillships on favorable terms, or at all. Our failure to secure drilling contracts for our uncontracted drillships or currently operating drillships after the expiration of existing contracts could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

The imposition of stringent restrictions or prohibitions on offshore drilling by any governing body may have a material adverse effect on our business.

Events in recent years have heightened environmental and regulatory concerns about the oil and natural gas industry. From time to time, governing bodies may propose and have enacted legislation or regulations that may materially limit or prohibit offshore drilling in certain areas. If laws are enacted or other governmental action is taken that delay, restrict or prohibit offshore drilling in our expected areas of operation, our business could be materially adversely affected.

For example, the U.S. governmental response to the Deepwater Horizon incident in April 2010 and resulting oil spill could have a prolonged and material adverse impact on drilling operations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. Following the April 2010 fire and explosion aboard the Deepwater Horizon drilling platform owned by a competitor and subsequent release of oil from the Macondo well in ultra-deep water of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, the federal government, acting through the U.S. Department of the Interior (“DOI”) and its implementing agencies that have since evolved into the present day Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (“BOEM”) and Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (“BSEE”), have issued a variety of regulatory initiatives including regulations and Notices to Lessees and Operators (“NTLs”) intended to impose additional safety, operational, permitting and certification requirements that are applicable to our oil and natural gas exploration,

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development and production customers in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. These regulatory initiatives effectively temporarily slowed down the pace of drilling and production operations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico as adjustments were being made in operating procedures, certification requirements and lead times for inspections, drilling applications and permits, and exploration and production plan reviews, and as the federal agencies evolved into their present day bureaus. Compliance with these requirements may prevent our customers from obtaining new drilling permits and approvals in a timely manner, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial position or results of operations. Third party challenges to industry drilling operations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico may also serve to further delay or restrict exploration activities. In this regulatory environment, Chevron may be unable to conduct drilling operations with the Pacific Santa Ana or commence drilling operations with the Pacific Sharav in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico in as efficient or as profitable of a manner. Under those circumstances, Chevron may have an opportunity under its contract to operate the Pacific Santa Ana or the Pacific Sharav outside of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico or to pay the contractual standby dayrate. Chevron may also choose to exercise the contract’s termination clause, under which Chevron would be required to pay a standby rate to us on a monthly basis for the remaining period of the contract.

The U.S. Gulf of Mexico represents a significant portion of the industry’s existing deepwater drillship demand. The new or newly interpreted regulations and other regulatory initiatives effected by DOI, BOEM and BSEE have created significant uncertainty regarding the requirements to perform offshore drilling activity in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico and possible implications for regions outside of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. If the new regulations, operating procedures and possibility of increased legal liability are viewed by our current or future customers as a significant impairment to expected profitability on drilling projects in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, deepwater drillships and other floating rigs could depart the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, which would likely affect the global supply and demand balance for such drillships and rigs, resulting in lower dayrates and/or utilization and a more competitive and challenging business environment in the international sector. In addition to the new safety requirements issued thus far by the federal government, the BSEE could issue additional safety and environmental guidelines or regulations for drilling in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico that could disrupt or delay drilling operations, increase the cost of drilling operations or reduce the area of operations for deepwater drilling rigs, and other governments could take similar actions. For example, in November 2011, the BSEE announced a change in its enforcement policies, pursuant to which the agency has extended its regulatory enforcement reach to include contractors as well as offshore lease operators. Consequently, the BSEE may elect to hold contractors, including drilling contractors, liable for alleged violations of law arising in the BSEE’s jurisdictional area. Implementation of this announced change in enforcement policy by the BSEE could subject us to added liabilities, including sanctions and penalties, as well as increased costs arising from contractual arrangements that failed to take into account such change in enforcement policy. All of these uncertainties could result in increased future operating costs, including insurance costs, which we may not be able to pass through to our customers.

Our business could be affected adversely by union disputes and strikes or work stoppages by our employees. In addition, our labor costs and the operating restrictions under which we operate could increase as a result of collective bargaining negotiations and changes in labor laws and regulations.

Some of our employees working in Nigeria and Brazil are represented by unions, and some of our contracted labor work under collective bargaining agreements. Many of these represented individuals are working under agreements that are subject to annual salary negotiation. The Company cannot guarantee the results of any such collective bargaining negotiations or whether any such negotiations will result in a work stoppage. In addition, employees may strike for reasons unrelated to our union arrangements. Any future work stoppage could, depending on the affected operations and the length of the work stoppage, have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

These negotiations could result in higher personnel expenses, other increased costs or increased operational restrictions. Although our U.S. employees are not covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the marine services industry has been targeted by maritime labor unions in an effort to organize U.S. Gulf of Mexico employees. In addition, legislation has been introduced in the U.S. Congress that could encourage additional

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unionization efforts in the United States, as well as increase the chances that such efforts succeed. A significant increase in the wages paid by competing employers or the unionization of our U.S. Gulf of Mexico employees could result in a reduction of our skilled labor force, increases in the wage rates that we must pay, or both. Additional unionization efforts, if successful, or new collective bargaining agreements could materially increase our labor costs.

Our global operations may be adversely affected by political and economic circumstances in the countries in which we operate. A significant portion of our business is conducted in Nigeria, which exposes us to risks of war, local economic instabilities, corruption, political disruption and civil disturbance in that region.

A primary component of our business strategy is to operate in global oil and natural gas producing areas. We are subject to a number of risks inherent in any business that operates globally, including:

• political, social and economic instability, war, piracy and acts of terrorism;

• potential seizure, expropriation or nationalization of assets;

• damage to our equipment or violence directed at our employees, including kidnappings;

• increased operating costs;

• complications associated with supplying, repairing and replacing equipment in remote locations;

• repudiation, modification or renegotiation of contracts;

• limitations on insurance coverage, such as war risk and named windstorm coverage in certain areas;

• import-export quotas;

• confiscatory taxation;

• work stoppages;

• unexpected changes in regulatory requirements;

• wage and price controls;

• imposition of trade barriers;

• imposition or changes in interpretation and enforcement of local content laws, such as those we must currently comply with in Nigeria and Brazil;

• restrictions on currency or capital repatriations;

• solicitation by government officials for improper payments or other forms of corruption;

• currency fluctuations and devaluations; and

• other forms of government regulation and economic conditions that are beyond our control.

These risks may be higher in developing countries such as Nigeria, where the Pacific Bora entered service in August 2011 under a three-year drilling contract with a wholly-owned Nigerian subsidiary of Chevron and the Pacific Scirocco entered service in December 2011 under a one-year drilling contract with a subsidiary of Total, with two one-year options, one of which was exercised on April 6, 2012, and one two-year option. Countries in West Africa have experienced political and economic instability in the past and such instability may continue in the future. Additionally, Nigeria is ranked 139 out of 176 countries and territories in Transparency International’s 2012 Corruption Perceptions Index. Furthermore, there are significant sectarian tensions in Nigeria among the numerous different ethnic and tribal groups, which have resulted in sporadic violence. Disruptions may occur in the future, and losses caused by these disruptions may occur that will not be covered by insurance.

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Our contract drilling operations may be adversely affected by various laws and regulations in countries in which we operate relating to the equipment and operation of drilling units, oil and natural gas exploration and development and import and export activities.

Governments in some foreign countries have been increasingly active in regulating and controlling the ownership of concessions and companies holding concessions, the exploration for oil and natural gas and other aspects of the oil and natural gas industries in their countries, including local content requirements for participating in tenders for certain drilling contracts. Many governments favor or effectively require that drilling contracts be awarded to local contractors or require foreign contractors to employ citizens of, or purchase supplies from, a particular jurisdiction. These practices may result in inefficiencies or put us at a disadvantage when we bid for contracts against local competitors.

In addition, the shipment of goods, services and technology across international borders subjects us to extensive trade laws and regulations. Our import and export activities are governed by unique customs laws and regulations in each of the countries where we operate. Moreover, many countries control the import and export of certain goods, services and technology and impose related import and export recordkeeping and reporting obligations. Governments also may impose economic sanctions against certain countries, persons and other entities that may restrict or prohibit transactions involving such countries, persons and entities, and we are also subject to the U.S. anti-boycott law.

The laws and regulations concerning import and export activity, recordkeeping and reporting, import and export control and economic sanctions are complex and constantly changing. These laws and regulations may be enacted, amended, enforced or interpreted in a manner materially impacting our operations. A global economic downturn may increase some foreign governments’ efforts to enact, enforce, amend or interpret laws and regulations as a method to increase revenue. Shipments can be delayed and denied import or export for a variety of reasons, some of which are outside our control and some of which may result from failure to comply with existing legal and regulatory regimes. Shipping delays or denials could cause unscheduled operational downtime. Any failure to comply with these applicable legal and regulatory obligations also could result in criminal and civil penalties and sanctions, such as fines, imprisonment, debarment from government contracts, seizure of shipments and loss of import and export privileges.

We may also incur losses as a result of an inability to collect revenues because of a shortage of convertible currency available in the country of operation, controls over currency exchange or controls over the repatriation of income or capital.

Delays or cost overruns in the construction of new drillships or the modification of existing drillships could adversely affect our business. These risks are concentrated because all of our drillships currently on order and under construction are being built by SHI in South Korea.

As of February 15, 2013, we have a total of four ultra-deepwater newbuild drillships currently under construction (the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship). We also currently have an option with SHI to construct a ninth newbuild drillship on the same terms and conditions as those for our eighth drillship. We may enter into agreements to commence newbuild projects in the future. Additionally, as part of our growth strategy we may contract from time to time for the construction of drilling units. Such construction projects are subject to risks of delay or cost overruns inherent in any large construction project, including costs or delays resulting from the following:

• shipyard availability;

• unexpected delays in delivery times for, or shortages of, key equipment, parts and materials;

• shortages of skilled labor and other shipyard personnel necessary to perform the work;

• shortages or unforeseen increases in the cost of equipment, labor and raw materials, particularly steel;

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• unforeseen design and engineering problems, including those relating to the commissioning of newly designed equipment;

• unanticipated actual or purported change orders;

• work stoppages and labor disputes;

• latent damages or deterioration to hull, equipment and machinery in excess of engineering estimates and assumptions;

• delays in, or inability to obtain, access to financing;

• failure or delay of third-party service providers and labor disputes;

• disputes with shipyards and suppliers;

• our requests for changes to the original rig specifications;

• delays and unexpected costs of incorporating parts and materials needed for the completion of projects;

• financial or other difficulties at shipyards and suppliers;

• adverse weather conditions or storm damage;

• inability to obtain required permits or approvals; and

• defective construction and the resultant need for remedial work.

These factors may contribute to cost variances and delays in the delivery of our newbuild units. Our risks are concentrated because all of our drillships currently on order and under construction are being built by SHI in South Korea.

We have entered into drilling contracts with respect to the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav and we intend to enter into drilling contracts for the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship prior to delivery if market conditions permit. With respect to the contracts we have or may enter into with respect to these drillships prior to delivery, any delays in the delivery of our drillships would result in a loss of revenue and may subject us to penalties due to delays in contract commencement and may result in termination or shortening of the term of the drilling contract for the rig by the customer pursuant to applicable late delivery clauses. We will not receive any material increase in revenue or cash flow from new or modified drillships until they are placed in service and customers enter into binding arrangements for the use of such drillships. In the event of termination of one of these contracts, we may not be able to secure a replacement contract on as favorable terms, or at all. If we experience delays and costs overruns in the construction of our drillships due to any of the factors listed above, our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

We have a limited operating history, which makes it more difficult to accurately forecast our future results and may make it difficult for investors to evaluate our business and our future prospects, both of which will increase the risk of your investment in our common shares.

We did not begin to recognize operating revenue until the Pacific Bora commenced drilling operations on August 26, 2011. The Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana commenced drilling operations on December 31, 2011, February 6, 2012 and May 4, 2012, respectively. Following shipyard construction, commissioning and testing, the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship are expected to be delivered to us at the shipyard in June 2013, the fourth quarter of 2013, the second quarter of 2014 and the first quarter of 2015, respectively. Upon delivery, the Pacific Khamsin is expected to enter service in one of several countries globally, including Nigeria, Liberia and certain Asian countries, in the fourth quarter of 2013 under a two-year contract with a subsidiary of Chevron and the Pacific Sharav is expected to enter service in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico in the second quarter of 2014 under a five-year contract with a subsidiary of Chevron.

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Because of our limited operating history, we lack extensive historical financial and operational data, making it more difficult for an investor to evaluate our business, forecast our future revenues and other operating results and assess the merits and risks of an investment in our common shares. This lack of information will increase the risk of your investment in our common shares. Moreover, investors should consider and evaluate our prospects in light of the risks and uncertainties frequently encountered by companies with a limited operating history. These risks and difficulties include challenges in accurate financial planning as a result of limited historical data and the uncertainties resulting from having had a relatively limited time period in which to implement and evaluate our business strategies as compared to older companies with longer operating histories. If we are not able to successfully meet these challenges, our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

Shortages of equipment, spare parts and ancillary services could have a negative impact on our operations.

Our operations rely on the timely supply of equipment and spare parts to maintain and repair our fleet. We also rely on the supply of ancillary services, including, among others, supply boats, helicopter services, catering services and engineering and technical services. Shortages in materials, delays in the delivery of necessary spare parts, equipment or other materials, or the unavailability of ancillary services could negatively impact our operations and result in increases in rig downtime and delays in the repair and maintenance of our fleet.

The Project Facilities Agreement, our 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds, our 2017 Senior Secured Notes and the Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement impose significant operating and financial restrictions on certain of our subsidiaries, which may prevent us from capitalizing on business opportunities and taking some actions.

The Project Facilities Agreement contains several restrictions on the activities of our subsidiary, Pacific Drilling Limited (as guarantor of borrowings under the Project Facilities Agreement) and all of its subsidiaries, including Pacific Bora Ltd., Pacific Scirocco Ltd., Pacific Mistral Ltd. and Pacific Santa Ana S.à.r.l., each of which is a borrower under the Project Facilities Agreement. Substantially all of our current and expected near-term revenues are derived from these entities. These restrictions limit the ability of each of those entities to, among other things:

• make certain types of loans and investments;

• make dividends or other payments to us, redeem or repurchase stock, prepay, redeem or repurchase other debt or make other restricted payments;

• incur or guarantee additional indebtedness;

• use proceeds from asset sales, new indebtedness or equity issuances for general corporate purposes or investment into our current business;

• invest in certain new joint ventures;

• create or incur liens;

• sell assets or consolidate or merge with or into other companies;

• engage in transactions with affiliates; and

• enter into new lines of business.

The Project Facilities Agreement also contains a number of financial covenants that impose significant restrictions on us, including requirements that our subsidiary, Pacific Drilling Limited, maintain certain liquidity levels and financial ratios. The restrictions and covenants contained in our debt agreements may prevent us from taking actions that we believe would be in our best interest and may make it difficult for us to successfully

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execute our business strategy or effectively compete with companies that are not similarly restricted. We may also incur future debt obligations that may subject us to additional restrictive covenants that could affect our financial and operational flexibility. Our ability to comply with these restrictions and covenants, including meeting financial ratios and tests, may be affected by events beyond our control. The breach of any of these covenants and restrictions could result in a default under the agreements governing our debt. An event of default under any of these agreements would permit some of the lenders to declare all amounts borrowed from them to be due and payable. In addition, debt under other debt instruments that contain cross-acceleration or cross-default provisions may also be accelerated and become due and payable. If any of these events occur, our assets might not be sufficient to repay in full all of our outstanding indebtedness, and we may not be able to find alternative financing. Even if we could obtain alternative financing, such financing might not be on terms that are favorable or acceptable. If we were unable to repay amounts borrowed, the holders of the debt could initiate a bankruptcy or liquidation proceeding.

Our 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds (as defined below) contain provisions that limit, with certain exceptions, the ability of the Company and our subsidiaries to (i) merge or demerge, (ii) dispose of assets, (iii) incur financial indebtedness and (iv) pay dividends exceeding 50% of consolidated net income for the preceding fiscal year. The bonds also require compliance with financial covenants including (i) a minimum equity ratio of 35%, (ii) a minimum liquidity of $25 million and (iii) a leverage restriction limiting the outstanding secured and unsecured borrowings on a consolidated basis (excluding Temporary Import Bond Facilities) to an average of $475 million per drillship. The 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds contain events of default that are usual and customary for a financing of this type, size and purpose. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, borrowings under the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds are subject to acceleration.

The 2017 Senior Secured Notes contain provisions that limit, with certain exceptions, the ability of Pacific Drilling S.A., the Issuer (as defined below) and Pacific Drilling S.A.’s other restricted subsidiaries to (i) pay dividends, purchase or redeem Pacific Drilling S.A.’s capital stock or subordinated indebtedness of the Issuer or any guarantor or make other restricted payments, (ii) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue preferred stock, (iii) create or incur liens and (iv) create unrestricted subsidiaries, (v) enter into transactions with affiliates, (vi) enter into new lines of business, (vii) transfer or sell the Pacific Khamsin and other related assets and (viii) merge or demerge.

The Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement contains certain restrictions on our activities (as guarantor thereunder), including our ability to make dividends and transact with affiliates. The Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement also contains several restrictions on the activities of our subsidiaries, Pacific Sharav S.à r.l. and Pacific Drilling VII Limited, (each of which is a borrower under the Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement), including, among other things, restrictions on their ability to:

• make certain types of loans and investments;

• incur or guarantee additional indebtedness;

• create or incur liens;

• sell assets or consolidate or merge with or into other companies;

• engage in transactions with affiliates; and

• enter into new lines of business.

The Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement also contains a number of financial covenants that impose significant restrictions on us, including requirements that we maintain certain liquidity levels and financial ratios.

See Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness” for a description of the restrictions and covenants applicable to our Project Facilities Agreement, the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds, the 2017 Senior Secured Notes and the Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement.

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Operating and maintenance costs will not necessarily fluctuate in proportion to changes in operating revenues.

We do not expect operating and maintenance costs to fluctuate in direct proportion to changes in operating revenues. The principal components of our operating costs are, among other things, direct and indirect costs of labor and benefits, maintenance and spare parts and insurance. Operating revenues may fluctuate as a function of changes in dayrates. However, costs for operating a drillship are generally fixed or only semi-variable regardless of the dayrate being earned. In addition, should one of our drillships incur idle time between contracts, we would typically maintain the crew to prepare the drillship for its next contract and would not reduce costs to correspond with the decrease in revenue. During times of moderate activity, reductions in costs may not be immediate, as the crew may be required to prepare the drillship for stacking, after which time the crew will be reduced to a level necessary to maintain the drillship in working condition with the extra crew members assigned to active drillships or dismissed. In addition, as drillships are mobilized from one geographic location to another, the labor and other operating and maintenance costs can vary significantly. Equipment maintenance expenses fluctuate depending upon the type of activity a drillship is performing and the age and condition of the equipment. Contract preparation expenses vary based on the scope and length of contract preparation required and the duration of the firm contractual period over which such expenditures are amortized.

Failure to employ a sufficient number of skilled workers or an increase in labor costs could negatively affect our operations.

We require skilled personnel to operate and provide technical services to, and support for, our drillships. In periods of increasing activity and when the number of operating units in our areas of operation increases, either because of new construction, re-activation of idle units or the mobilization of units into the region, shortages of qualified personnel could arise, creating upward pressure on wages, higher turnover and difficulty in staffing. A shortage of qualified personnel, the inability to obtain and retain qualified personnel or a reduction in the experience level of our personnel as a result of increased turnover could negatively affect the quality and timeliness of our work and lead to higher downtime and more operating incidents, which in turn could decrease revenues and increase costs. If increased competition for labor were to intensify in the future, we may experience increases in costs or limits on operations. In addition, our ability to expand operations depends in part upon our ability to increase the size of our skilled labor force.

An inability to obtain visas and work permits for our employees on a timely basis could negatively affect our operations and have an adverse effect on our business.

Our ability to operate worldwide depends on our ability to obtain the necessary visas and work permits for our personnel to travel in and out of, and to work in, the jurisdictions in which we operate. Governmental actions in some of the jurisdictions in which we operate may make it difficult for us to move our personnel in and out of these jurisdictions by delaying or withholding the approval of these permits. If we are not able to obtain visas and work permits for the employees we need for operating our drillships on a timely basis, we might not be able to perform our obligations under our drilling contracts, which could allow our customers to cancel the contracts. If our customers cancel some of our contracts, and we are unable to secure new contracts on a timely basis and on substantially similar terms, our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

Our business is subject to numerous governmental laws and regulations, including those that may impose significant costs and liability on us for environmental and natural resource damages.

Many aspects of our operations are subject to foreign, federal, regional, state and local laws and regulations that may relate directly or indirectly to the contract drilling and well servicing industries, including those requiring us to obtain and maintain specific permits or other governmental approvals to control the discharge of oil and other contaminants into the environment or otherwise relating to environmental protection. Countries where we operate have environmental laws and regulations covering the discharge of oil and other contaminants and protection of the environment in connection with our operations. Additionally, any operations and activities in the United States and

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its territorial waters will be subject to numerous environmental laws and regulations, including the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (“OPA”), the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (“OCSLA”), the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (“MARPOL”), as each has been amended from time to time, and analogous state laws. Failure to comply with these laws, regulations and treaties may result in the assessment of administrative, civil and even criminal penalties, the imposition of remedial obligations, the denial or revocation of permits or other authorizations and the issuance of injunctions that may limit or prohibit some or all of our operations. Laws and regulations protecting the environment have become more stringent in recent years and may in certain circumstances impose strict liability, rendering us liable for environmental and natural resource damages without regard to negligence or fault on our part. These laws and regulations may expose us to liability for the conduct of, or conditions caused by, others or for acts that were in compliance with all applicable laws at the time the acts were performed. The application of these laws and regulations, the modification of existing laws or regulations or the adoption of new laws or regulations that curtail exploratory or developmental drilling for oil and natural gas could materially limit future contract drilling opportunities or materially increase our costs. In addition, we may be required to make significant capital expenditures to comply with such laws and regulations.

We could be adversely affected by violations of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar foreign anti-bribery laws.

The United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”) and similar worldwide anti-bribery laws generally prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making, offering or authorizing improper payments to non-U.S. government officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. We operate in several countries where strict compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. Violations of anti-bribery laws (either due to our acts or our inadvertence) may result in criminal and civil sanctions and could subject us to other liabilities in the U.S. and elsewhere. Even allegations of such violations could disrupt our business and result in a material adverse effect on our business and operations. We may be subject to competitive disadvantages to the extent that our competitors are able to secure business, licenses or other preferential treatment by making payments to government officials and others in positions of influence or using other methods that U.S. and foreign laws and regulations and our own policies prohibit us from using.

In order to effectively compete in some foreign jurisdictions, we utilize local agents and/or establish joint ventures with local operators or strategic partners. For example, in Nigeria, we have established the PIDWAL joint venture, which is 90% owned by us and 10% owned by Derotech Offshore Services Limited (“Derotech”), a privately-held Nigerian registered limited liability company. PIDWAL is party to the contract with a subsidiary of Chevron for the Pacific Bora and the contract with a subsidiary of Total for the Pacific Scirocco. Derotech is also performing marketing services for PIDWAL. In addition, we entered into an agreement with a marketing agent in Brazil and have agreements with agents in both Nigeria and Brazil, pursuant to which the agents, among other activities, process visas, customs clearance of routine shipments of equipment, materials and supplies and process temporary importation permits, extensions and renewals. One of our logistics and supply-chain agents in Nigeria is an affiliate of Derotech. All of these activities involve interaction by our agents with non-U.S. government officials. Even though some of our agents and partners may not themselves be subject to the FCPA or other non-U.S. anti-bribery laws to which we may be subject, if our agents or partners make improper payments to non-U.S. government officials in connection with engagements or partnerships with us, we could be investigated and potentially found liable for violation of such anti-bribery laws and could incur civil and criminal penalties and other sanctions, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

We may be required to make significant capital expenditures to maintain our competitiveness and to comply with laws and the applicable regulations and standards of governmental authorities and organizations, which would negatively affect our financial condition, result of operations and cash flows.

Changes in offshore drilling technology, customer requirements for new or upgraded equipment and competition within our industry may require us to make significant capital expenditures in order to maintain our

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competitiveness. Our competitors may have greater financial and other resources than we have, which may enable them to make technological improvements to existing equipment or replace equipment that becomes obsolete. In addition, changes in governmental regulations, safety or other equipment standards, as well as compliance with standards imposed by maritime self-regulatory organizations, may require us to make additional unforeseen capital expenditures. For example, we may be required to make significant capital expenditures for alterations or the addition of new equipment to satisfy requirements of the U.S. Coast Guard and the American Bureau of Shipping. As a result, we may be required to take our vessels out of service for extended periods of time, with corresponding losses of revenues, in order to make such alterations or to add such equipment. In the future, market conditions may not justify these expenditures or enable us to operate our older vessels profitably during the remainder of their economic lives.

If we are unable to fund these capital expenditures with cash flow from operations, we may either incur additional borrowings or raise capital through the sale of debt or equity securities. Our ability to access the capital markets for future offerings may be limited by our financial condition at the time, by changes in laws and regulations (or interpretation thereof) and by adverse market conditions resulting from, among other things, general economic conditions and contingencies and uncertainties that are beyond our control. If we raise additional funds by issuing additional equity securities, existing shareholders may experience dilution. Our failure to obtain the funds for necessary future capital expenditures would limit our ability to continue to operate some of our vessels and could have a material adverse effect on our business and on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Worldwide economic and financial problems may materially reduce our revenue, profitability and cash flows.

Worldwide economic and financial problems may reduce the availability of liquidity and credit to fund business operations worldwide and could adversely affect our customers, suppliers and lenders. The global recession caused a reduction in worldwide demand for energy. Demand for our services depends on activity in the oil and natural gas industry and capital expenditure levels, each of which is directly affected by trends in oil and natural gas demand. Any prolonged reduction in oil and natural gas demand would further depress the current levels of exploration, development and production activity. Perceptions of lower oil and natural gas prices by oil and natural gas companies over the long-term can similarly reduce or delay major expenditures. Lower levels of activity result in a corresponding decline in the demand for our services, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

New technology and/or products may cause us to become less competitive, negatively impact our operations or increase our costs.

The offshore contract drilling industry is subject to the introduction of new drilling techniques and services that utilize new technologies, some of which may be subject to patent protection. New technologies and applications are constantly being developed that improve the economics of producing oil and natural gas and allow for the production of deposits formerly considered uneconomic to develop. As our competitors and others use or develop new technologies, we may be placed at a competitive disadvantage. Further, we may face competitive pressure to implement or acquire certain new technologies at a substantial cost. Some of our competitors have greater financial, technical and personnel resources that may allow them to access technological advantages and implement new technologies before we can. We cannot be certain that we will be able to implement new technology or products on a timely basis or at an acceptable cost. Thus, our inability to effectively use and implement new and emerging technology could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Technology disputes involving us, our suppliers or sub-suppliers could negatively impact our operations or increase our costs.

Drilling units and drilling rig operations use patented or otherwise proprietary technology and, consequently, involve a potential risk of infringement of third party rights. The majority of the intellectual

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property rights relating to our drillships and related equipment are owned by us or our suppliers or sub-suppliers. In the event that we or one of our suppliers or sub-suppliers becomes involved in a dispute over infringement of intellectual property rights relating to equipment owned or used by us, we may lose access to repair services or replacement parts, or we could be required to cease use of some equipment. We could also be required to pay royalties for the use of equipment. Technology disputes involving us or our suppliers or sub-suppliers could adversely affect our financial results and operations.

We could be sued for patent infringement.

We could be sued for patent infringement related to certain technologies used on our drillships. Transocean sued Maersk Contractors USA Inc. (“Maersk”) for infringing two of Transocean’s U.S. patents involving dual activity on drilling assemblies. Some of our drillships can utilize technology related to the subject of this patent dispute. In April 2011, a jury determined that Maersk had not established that the asserted patent claims were invalid, that Maersk had infringed those claims, and awarded Transocean $15 million for Maersk’s infringement. On June 30, 2011, the judge presiding over the case invalidated the jury award, entered judgment in Maersk’s favor, and determined as a matter of law that the asserted patent claims were invalid for obviousness, that they were invalid for having a defective patent application and that Maersk had not infringed. Transocean appealed this judgment and in November 2012 prevailed on appeal. In January 2013, Maersk filed a petition for panel rehearing and rehearing en banc. The motion was denied on February 21, 2013 and Maersk has 90 days to file a petition for certification with the U.S. Supreme Court. Transocean could choose to sue us or our customers for infringing its patents if we use, offer to sell, or sell related technology in the United States, and we could be forced to discontinue the use of the technology in question, pay royalties to Transocean, or make indemnity payments to our customers.

Dual gradient drilling techniques may not result in the currently expected benefits and, as a result, demand may not develop for these capabilities.

The Pacific Santa Ana, the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship have, or upon completion will have, dual gradient drilling upgrades. Dual gradient drilling is a technology that allows two different pressure gradients to be maintained in the well (one in the drilling riser and one in the well below the mudline) by a process of replacing mud from the drilling riser with a seawater-density fluid. Although dual gradient drilling technology was technically proven ten years ago, the Pacific Santa Ana will be the first rig to deploy this technology for commercial application. Dual gradient drilling may not result in expected savings in cost and time per well, higher flow rates and greater access to “undrillable” reserves and, as a result, demand may not develop for these capabilities. In addition, the dual gradient drilling concept that will be deployed by the Pacific Santa Ana is disclosed in patents assigned to Chevron. A court could interpret our license with Chevron to require that our drilling contract with Chevron for the use of the Pacific Santa Ana or the Pacific Sharav (or any subsequent dual gradient capable rig) remain in effect for the license to use the technical information, data, and knowledge made available by Chevron for dual gradient drilling operations in all of our drilling units even after the license takes effect on February 1, 2014. In the event that dual gradient drilling does not result in expected benefits to our customers, demand does not develop for these capabilities or our license with Chevron is found to be invalid, this technology may not result in the currently expected benefits.

There may be limits to our ability to mobilize drillships between geographic areas, and the time and costs of such mobilizations may be material to our business.

The offshore contract drilling market is generally a global market as drilling units may be mobilized from one area to another. However, the ability to mobilize drilling units can be impacted by several factors including, but not limited to, governmental regulation and customs practices, the significant costs to move a drilling unit, weather, political instability, civil unrest, military actions and the technical capability of the drilling units to operate in various environments. Additionally, while a drillship is being mobilized from one geographic market to another, we may not be paid by the customer for the time that the drillship is out of service. Also, we may mobilize a drillship to another geographic market without a customer contract, which will result in costs not reimbursable by future customers.

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Our drilling contracts may be terminated early in certain circumstances.

Our contracts with customers may be terminated at the option of the customer upon payment of an early termination fee, which is typically a significant percentage of the dayrate or the standby rate under the drilling contract for a specified period of time. Such payments may not, however, fully compensate us for the loss of the contract. Our contracts also provide for termination by the customer without the payment of any termination fee, under various circumstances, typically including, but not limited to, our non-performance, as a result of downtime or impaired performance caused by equipment or operational issues, or sustained periods of downtime due to force majeure events. Many of these events are beyond our control. During periods of depressed market conditions, we are subject to an increased risk of our customers seeking to terminate their contracts, including through claims of non-performance. Our customers’ ability to perform their obligations under their drilling contracts with us may also be negatively impacted by continuing global economic uncertainty. If our customers terminate some of our contracts, and we are unable to secure new contracts on a timely basis and on substantially similar terms, or if payments due under our contracts are suspended for an extended period of time or if a number of our contracts are renegotiated, our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected. In addition, if any of our drilling contracts for the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral or the Pacific Santa Ana defaults, is terminated, and is not replaced in a timely manner with an acceptable contract under our Project Facilities Agreement, our obligations to repay outstanding indebtedness under the Project Facilities Agreement can be accelerated.

An event of default may be triggered by the occurrence of events in connection with our other indebtedness.

Our indebtedness consists of a number of different obligations, each governed by separate agreements. Pursuant to the terms of the agreements governing our indebtedness, an event of default may be triggered by the occurrence of some or all of the following events in connection with our other indebtedness: (i) failure to make payments when due or upon maturity, (ii) acceleration of such other indebtedness and (iii) events of default due to breaches of covenants or otherwise under the agreements governing other indebtedness. The occurrence of an event of default under any of the agreements governing our indebtedness as a result of such events would allow the relevant creditors to accelerate such indebtedness. In the event of any acceleration, we may not have enough cash to repay our outstanding indebtedness.

We are a holding company and are dependent upon cash flow from subsidiaries to meet our obligations. If our operating subsidiaries experience sufficiently adverse changes in their financial position or results of operations, or we otherwise become unable to pay our debts as they become due and obtain further credit, we may become subject to Luxembourg insolvency proceedings.

As we currently conduct our operations through, and most of our assets are owned by, our subsidiaries, our operating income and cash flow are generated by our subsidiaries. As a result, cash we obtain from our subsidiaries is the principal source of funds necessary to meet our obligations. Contractual provisions or laws, as well as our subsidiaries’ financial condition, operating requirements and debt requirements, may limit our ability to obtain cash from subsidiaries that we require to pay our expenses or meet our current or future debt service obligations. Applicable tax laws may also subject such payments to us by subsidiaries to further taxation.

The inability to transfer cash from our subsidiaries may mean that, even though we may have sufficient resources on a consolidated basis to meet our obligations, we may not be permitted to make the necessary transfers from our subsidiaries to meet our debt and other obligations. Likewise, we may not be able to make necessary transfers from our subsidiaries in order to provide funds for the payment of our obligations, for which we are or may become responsible under the terms of the agreements governing our indebtedness. The terms of certain of the agreements governing our indebtedness described under Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness” also place restrictions on our cash balance and require us to maintain reserves of cash which could inhibit our ability to meet our obligations.

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If our operating subsidiaries experience sufficiently adverse changes in their financial position or results of operations, or we otherwise become unable to pay our debts as they become due and obtain further credit, we may be in a state of cessation of payments (cessation de paiements) and lose our commercial creditworthiness (ébranlement de credit), which could result in the commencement of insolvency proceedings in Luxembourg. Such proceedings would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows and could have a significant negative impact on the market price of our common shares.

The loss of some of our key executive officers and employees could negatively impact our business.

Our future operational performance depends to a significant degree upon the continued service of key members of our management as well as marketing, sales and operations personnel. The loss of one or more of our key personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business. We believe our future success will also depend in large part upon our ability to attract, retain and further motivate highly skilled management, marketing, sales and operations personnel. We may experience intense competition for personnel, and we may not be able to retain key employees or be successful in attracting, assimilating and retaining personnel in the future.

Our business involves numerous operating hazards, and our insurance may not be adequate to cover our losses.

Our operations are subject to the usual hazards inherent in the drilling and operation of oil and natural gas wells, such as blowouts, reservoir damage, loss of production, loss of well control, craterings, fires, explosions and pollution. The occurrence of any of these events could result in the suspension of our drilling or production operations, claims by the operator, severe damage to, or destruction of, the property and equipment involved, injury or death to drilling unit personnel and environmental damage. Our operations could be suspended as a result of these hazards whether the fault is ours or that of a third party. In certain circumstances, governmental authorities may suspend drilling operations as a result of these hazards, and our customers may cancel or terminate their contracts. We may also be subject to personal injury and other claims of drilling unit personnel as a result of our drilling operations. Our operations also may be suspended because of machinery breakdowns, abnormal operating conditions, failure of subcontractors to perform or supply goods or services and personnel shortages.

In addition, our operations will be subject to perils peculiar to marine operations, including capsizing, grounding, collision and loss or damage from severe weather. Severe weather could have a material adverse effect on our operations. Our drilling units could be damaged by high winds, turbulent seas or unstable sea bottom conditions which could potentially cause us to curtail operations for significant periods of time until such damages are repaired.

Damage to the environment could result from our operations, particularly through oil spillage or extensive uncontrolled fires. We may also be subject to property, environmental, natural resource and other damage claims by oil and natural gas companies, other businesses operating offshore and in coastal areas, environmental conservation groups, governmental entities and other third parties. Insurance policies and contractual rights to indemnity may not adequately cover losses, and we may not have insurance coverage or rights to indemnity for all risks. Moreover, pollution and environmental risks generally are not fully insurable.

As a result of the number of catastrophic events in the offshore drilling industry in recent years, such as hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico and the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig incident, insurance underwriters have increased insurance premiums and increased restrictions on coverage. In particular, hurricane losses in recent years have impacted named windstorm insurance coverage, rates and availability for Gulf of Mexico area exposures. The Project Facilities Agreement requires us to carry named windstorm insurance in the event that two or more of our drillships secured under the Project Facilities Agreement operate in the Gulf of Mexico or other areas prone to the occurrence of named windstorms. Currently, we only have one drillship secured under the Project Facilities Agreement, the Pacific Santa Ana, contracted to operate in the Gulf of Mexico and are therefore presently not required to carry named windstorm insurance. If we were required to obtain named

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windstorm insurance in the future, our costs for obtaining insurance coverage could significantly increase. Furthermore, we may not be able to obtain such insurance on commercially reasonable terms.

Losses caused by the occurrence of a significant event against which we are not fully insured, or caused by a number of lesser events against which we are insured but are subject to substantial deductibles, aggregate limits and/or self-insured amounts, could materially increase our costs and impair our profitability and financial condition. Our policy limits for property, casualty, liability and business interruption insurance, including coverage for severe weather, terrorist acts, war, civil disturbances, pollution or environmental damage, may not be adequate should a catastrophic event occur related to our property, plant or equipment, or our insurers may not have adequate financial resources to sufficiently or fully pay related claims or damages. When any of our coverage expires, adequate replacement coverage may not be available, offered at reasonable prices or offered by insurers with sufficient financial resources.

Our customers may be unable or unwilling to indemnify us.

Consistent with standard industry practice, our customers generally assume, and indemnify us against, well control and subsurface risks under our dayrate contracts. These risks are associated with the loss of control of a well, such as blowout or cratering, the cost to regain control or redrill the well and associated pollution. However, our indemnification may not cover all damages, claims or losses to us or third parties, and the customer may not have sufficient resources to cover their indemnification obligations or the customer may contest their obligation to indemnify us. Also, in the interest of maintaining good relations with our key customers, we may choose not to assert certain indemnification claims. In addition, from time to time, we may be unable to negotiate contracts containing indemnity provisions that obligate our customers to indemnify us for such damages and risks.

Our financial condition may be adversely affected if we fail to successfully integrate acquired assets or businesses we acquire, or are unable to obtain financing for acquisitions on acceptable terms.

We believe that acquisition opportunities may arise from time to time, and any such acquisition could be significant. At any given time, discussions with one or more potential sellers may be at different stages. However, any such discussions may not result in the consummation of an acquisition transaction, and we may not be able to identify or complete any acquisitions. We cannot predict the effect, if any, that any announcement or consummation of an acquisition would have on the trading price of our common shares.

Any future acquisitions could present a number of risks, including:

• the risk of using management time and resources to pursue acquisitions that are not successfully completed;

• the risk of incorrect assumptions regarding the future results of acquired operations;

• the risk of failing to integrate the operations or management of any acquired operations or assets successfully and timely; and

• the risk of diversion of management’s attention from existing operations or other priorities.

In addition, if we are unsuccessful in integrating any acquisitions in a timely and cost-effective manner, our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be materially adversely affected.

Our potential purchase of existing vessels carries risks associated with the quality of those vessels.

In the future, we may acquire existing vessels as a way of renewing and expanding our fleet. Unlike newbuilds, existing vessels typically do not carry warranties with respect to their condition. While we generally inspect any existing vessel prior to purchase, such an inspection would normally not provide us with as much knowledge of its condition as we would possess if the vessel had been built for us and operated by us during its

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life. Repairs and maintenance costs for existing vessels are difficult to predict and may be more substantial than for vessels that we have operated since they were built. These costs could decrease our profits and reduce our liquidity.

We may suffer losses as a result of foreign currency fluctuations.

A significant portion of the contract revenues of our foreign operations will be paid in U.S. Dollars; however, some payments are made in foreign currencies. As a result, we are exposed to currency fluctuations and exchange rate risks as a result of our foreign operations. To minimize the financial impact of these risks when we are paid in foreign currency, we attempt to match the currency of operating costs with the currency of contract revenue. If we are unable to substantially match the timing and amounts of these payments, any increase in the value of the U.S. Dollar in relation to the value of applicable foreign currencies could adversely affect our operating results when translated into U.S. Dollars.

We are exposed to the credit risks of our customers, and nonpayment by our customers could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

We are subject to risks of loss resulting from nonpayment or nonperformance by our customers. Any material nonpayment or nonperformance by our customers and certain other third parties could adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. If any of our customers or other parties default on their obligations to us, our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be adversely affected. Furthermore, some of our customers and other parties may be highly leveraged and subject to their own operating and regulatory risks.

Terrorist attacks, piracy, increased hostilities or war could lead to further economic instability, increased costs and disruption of our business.

Terrorist attacks, piracy and other current or future international conflicts, may adversely affect our business, operating results, financial condition, ability to raise capital and future growth. Continuing hostilities in the Middle East may lead to additional armed conflicts or to further acts of terrorism and civil disturbance in the United States, or elsewhere, which may contribute to further economic instability and disruption of oil production and distribution, which could result in reduced demand for our services.

In addition, oil facilities, shipyards, vessels, pipelines and oil and natural gas fields could be targets of future terrorist attacks and our vessels could be targets of pirates or hijackers. Any such attacks could lead to, among other things, bodily injury or loss of life, vessel or other property damage, increased vessel operational costs, including insurance costs, and the inability to transport oil and natural gas to or from certain locations. Terrorist attacks, war, piracy or other events beyond our control that adversely affect the production of oil could entitle our customers to terminate our drilling contracts, which would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Risks Relating to Our Common Shares

The rights and responsibilities of our shareholders are governed by Luxembourg law and differ in some respects from the rights and responsibilities of shareholders under other jurisdictions, including the United States, and shareholder rights under Luxembourg law may not be as clearly established as shareholder rights under the laws of other jurisdictions.

Our corporate affairs are governed by our articles of association, as amended from time to time (the “Articles”), and by the laws governing companies incorporated in Luxembourg. The rights of our shareholders

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and the responsibilities of members of our board of directors (the “Board of Directors”) under Luxembourg law may not be as clearly established as shareholder rights under the laws of other jurisdictions. We anticipate that all of our shareholder meetings will take place in Luxembourg.

In addition, the rights of shareholders as they relate to, for example, the exercise of shareholder rights, are governed by Luxembourg law and our Articles and differ from the rights of shareholders under other jurisdictions, including the United States. The holders of our common shares may have more difficulty in protecting their interests in the face of actions by the Board of Directors than if we were incorporated in the United States.

Because we are incorporated under the laws of Luxembourg, shareholders may face difficulty protecting their interests, and their ability to protect their rights through other international courts, including the United States, may be limited.

We are incorporated under the laws of Luxembourg, and the majority of our assets are located outside the United States. As a result, it may be difficult for investors to effect service of process within certain jurisdictions, including the United States, in a way that will permit a court in such country to have jurisdiction over us, or to enforce judgments against them obtained in the U.S. courts, including judgments predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal and state securities laws. Please read Item 10, “Enforceability of Civil Liabilities.”

We are controlled by a single shareholder, which could result in potential conflicts of interest with our public shareholders.

An entity controlled by the Quantum Pacific Group is a beneficial owner of approximately 69.2% of our outstanding common shares as of February 15, 2013 and is in a position to control actions that require the consent of our shareholders, including the election of directors, amendment of our Articles and any merger or sale of substantially all of our assets. In addition, three members of our Board of Directors are also employees of affiliates of the Quantum Pacific Group, including Mr. Ron Moskovitz, the Chairman of our Board of Directors.

There are no restrictions on the ability of the Quantum Pacific Group to compete with us. In addition, potential conflicts of interest exist or could arise in the future for our directors who are also officers of Quantum Pacific (UK) LLP with respect to a number of areas relating to the past and ongoing relationships of the Quantum Pacific Group and us. Although the affected directors may abstain from voting on matters in which our interests and those of the Quantum Pacific Group are in conflict, the presence of potential or actual conflicts could affect the process or outcome of the deliberations of our Board of Directors and may have an adverse effect on our public shareholders.

Our controlling shareholder, Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited, has pledged a significant portion of its shares in our company to secure a loan facility. A default under this loan facility could result in another person acquiring a significant voting interest in the Company and could adversely affect the market price of the Company’s shares.

Our controlling shareholder, Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited, has pledged a significant portion of its shares in the Company to secure a loan facility. This loan facility requires Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited to pledge cash collateral if the market value of the pledged shares falls below a certain threshold. As of February 15, 2013, Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited has pledged approximately 30% of our outstanding common shares to secure the loan facility. Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited may from time to time in the future obtain additional loans that are secured by a pledge of additional equity interests in the Company.

A number of factors could cause our share price to decline, including those risks described in this section, “Risk Factors,” and a decline in the market value of our common shares could trigger margin calls for these loan facilities. Failure or delay by Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited to promptly meet any margin call or other events of default under these financing arrangements could result in the sale or other disposition of some or all of the pledged shares, which could result in one or more persons other than Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited acquiring

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the pledged shares and thereby acquiring a significant voting interest in the Company. Furthermore, due to Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited’s significant interest in the Company, the disposition of a portion or all of its pledged shares by the lender under the loan facility or a subsequent holder of the pledged shares may adversely affect prevailing market prices of our shares. See “Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Common Shares—Sales of our common shares in the public market could lower our share price, and any additional capital raised by us through the sale of equity or convertible securities may dilute our investor’s ownership interest in us.”

Sales of our common shares in the public market could lower our share price, and any additional capital raised by us through the sale of equity or convertible securities may dilute our investor’s ownership interest in us.

We may sell additional common shares in subsequent public offerings. We may also issue additional common shares or convertible securities. As of February 15, 2013, we have 216,902,000 issued and outstanding common shares.

As of February 15, 2013, Quantum Pacific Group owns 150,000,000 shares, or approximately 69.2% of our total outstanding common shares. On November 16, 2011, we entered into a registration rights agreement with Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited which will require us to effect the registration of its common shares in certain circumstances.

In April 2011, we issued 60,000,000 common shares in a private offering to international and U.S. investors in April 2011 (the “2011 Private Placement”). Subsequent to the 2011 Private Placement, our shares were traded on the Norwegian OTC List.

In November 2011, we completed an initial public offering of 6,000,000 common shares. In December 2011, the underwriters purchased an additional 900,000 common shares pursuant to the full exercise of an over-allotment option. The shares sold in our initial public offering and pursuant to the underwriters’ over-allotment option are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”).

As of February 15, 2013, approximately 57,000,000 common shares have migrated from the Norwegian OTC List to the NYSE and are now freely trading in the U.S. public market.

In March 2012, we filed a registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on Form S-8 providing for the registration of 7,200,000 common shares issued or reserved for issuance under our stock incentive plan. Subject to the satisfaction of vesting conditions, common shares registered under this registration statement on Form S-8 are available for resale immediately in the public market without restriction.

We cannot predict the size of future issuances of our common shares or the effect, if any, that future issuances and sales of our common shares will have on the market price of our common shares. Sales of substantial amounts of our common shares (including any common shares registered pursuant to the registration rights agreement with Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited, any shares transferred by shareholders on the Norwegian OTC to the NYSE, any common shares registered on Form S-8, any shares issued in connection with an acquisition or any other sales of common shares in the public market), or the perception that such sales could occur, may adversely affect prevailing market prices of our common shares.

If we fail to maintain proper and effective internal controls, our ability to produce accurate and timely financial statements could be impaired and investors’ views of us could be harmed.

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires, among other things, that we maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures. In particular, we must perform system and process evaluation and testing of our internal control over financial reporting to allow management and our independent registered public accounting firm to report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. If we are not able to comply with the requirements of Section 404 in a timely manner, or if we or our independent registered public accounting firm identify

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deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses, the market price of our common shares could decline and we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by the NYSE, the SEC or other regulatory authorities, which would require additional financial and management resources.

Our ability to successfully implement our business plan and comply with Section 404 requires us to be able to prepare timely and accurate financial statements. We expect that we will need to continue to improve existing, and implement new, operational and financial systems, procedures and controls to manage our business effectively. Any delay in the implementation of, or disruption in the transition to, new or enhanced systems, procedures or controls, may cause our operations to suffer, and we may be unable to conclude that our internal control over financial reporting is effective and to obtain an unqualified report on internal controls from our auditors as required under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Moreover, we cannot be certain that these measures would ensure that we implement and maintain adequate controls over our financial processes and reporting in the future. Even if we were to conclude, and our auditors were to concur, that our internal control over financial reporting provided reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with GAAP, because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect fraud or misstatements. This, in turn, could have an adverse impact on trading prices for our common shares, and could adversely affect our ability to access the capital markets.

We are a “foreign private issuer” and “controlled company” under the NYSE rules, and as such, we are entitled to exemption from certain NYSE corporate governance standards, and investors may not have the same protections afforded to stockholders of companies that are subject to all of the NYSE corporate governance requirements.

We are a “foreign private issuer” under the securities laws of the United States and the rules of the NYSE. Under the NYSE rules, a “foreign private issuer” is subject to less stringent corporate governance requirements than a domestic issuer. Subject to certain exceptions, the rules of the NYSE permit a “foreign private issuer” to follow its home country practice in lieu of the listing requirements of the NYSE. In addition, Quantum Pacific Group controls a majority of our outstanding common shares. As a result, we are considered a “controlled company” within the meaning of the NYSE corporate governance standards. Under the NYSE rules, a company of which more than 50% of the voting power is held by another company or group is a “controlled company” and may elect not to comply with certain NYSE corporate governance requirements, including (1) the requirement that a majority of the board of directors consist of independent directors, (2) the requirement that the nominating committee be composed entirely of independent directors and have a written charter addressing the committee’s purpose and responsibilities, (3) the requirement that the compensation committee be composed entirely of independent directors and have a written charter addressing the committee’s purpose and responsibilities and (4) the requirement of an annual performance evaluation of the nominating and corporate governance and compensation committees. As permitted by these exemptions, as well as by our bylaws and the laws of Luxembourg, we currently have a board of directors with a majority of non-independent directors, an audit committee comprised solely of three independent directors and a compensation committee with one or more non-independent directors serving as committee members. As a result, non-independent directors, may, among other things, fix the compensation of our management, make common share and option awards and resolve governance issues regarding our company. Accordingly, in the future, investors may not have the same protections afforded to stockholders of companies that are subject to all of the NYSE corporate governance requirements.

As a “foreign private issuer,” we are exempt from a number of rules under the U.S. securities laws and are permitted to file less information with the SEC than other U.S. public companies. This may limit the information available to holders of our common shares.

As a “foreign private issuer,” we are not subject to all of the disclosure requirements applicable to companies organized within the United States. For example, we are exempt from certain rules under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) that regulate disclosure obligations and procedural requirements related to the solicitation of proxies, consents or authorizations applicable to a security

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registered under the Exchange Act. In addition, our officers and directors are exempt from the reporting and “short-swing” profit recovery provisions of Section 16 of the Exchange Act and related rules with respect to their purchases and sales of our securities. Moreover, we are not required to file periodic reports and financial statements with the SEC as frequently or as promptly as other U.S. public companies. Accordingly, there may be less information concerning our company publicly available than there is for other U.S. public companies.

Tax Risks

Changes in tax laws, treaties or regulations or adverse outcomes resulting from examination of our tax returns could adversely affect our financial results.

Our future effective tax rates could be adversely affected by changes in tax laws, treaties and regulations, both in the United States and internationally. Tax laws, treaties and regulations are highly complex and subject to interpretation. Consequently, we are subject to changing tax laws, treaties and regulations in and between countries in which we operate or are resident. Our income tax expense is based upon the interpretation of the tax laws in effect in various countries at the time that the expense was incurred. A change in these tax laws, treaties or regulations, or in the interpretation thereof, could result in a materially higher tax expense or a higher effective tax rate on our worldwide earnings. If any country successfully challenges our income tax filings based on our structure, or if we otherwise lose a material tax dispute, our effective tax rate on worldwide earnings could increase substantially and our financial results could be materially adversely affected.

We may not be able to make distributions without subjecting our shareholders to Luxembourg withholding tax.

If we are not successful in our efforts to make distributions, if any, through a withholding tax free reduction of share capital or share premium (the absence of withholding on such distributions is subject to certain requirements), then any dividends paid by us will generally be subject to a Luxembourg withholding tax at a rate of 15% (17.65% if the dividend tax is not withheld from the shareholder) (subject to the reductions/exceptions discussed under Item 10 “Taxation—Material Luxembourg Tax Considerations for Holders of Common Shares—Exemption from Luxembourg Withholding Tax”). The withholding tax must be withheld from the gross distribution and paid to the Luxembourg tax authorities. Under current Luxembourg tax law, a reduction of share capital or share premium is not subject to Luxembourg withholding tax provided that certain conditions are met, including, for example, the condition that we do not have distributable reserves or profits. However, there can be no assurance that our shareholders will approve such a reduction in share capital or share premium, that we will be able to meet the other legal requirements for a reduction in share capital or share premium, or that Luxembourg tax withholding rules will not be changed in the future. In addition, over the long term, the amount of share capital and share premium available for us to use for capital reductions will be limited. If we are unable to make a distribution through a withholding tax free reduction in share capital or share premium, we may not be able to make distributions without subjecting our shareholders to Luxembourg withholding taxes.

U.S. tax authorities could treat us as a “passive foreign investment company,” which could have adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. holders.

A foreign corporation will be treated as a “passive foreign investment company,” or PFIC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes if either (1) at least 75% of its gross income for any taxable year consists of certain types of “passive income” or (2) at least 50% of the average value of the corporation’s assets for any taxable year produce or are held for the production of those types of “passive income.” For purposes of these tests, “passive income” includes dividends, interest and gains from the sale or exchange of investment property and rents and royalties other than certain rents and royalties which are received from unrelated parties in connection with the active conduct of a trade or business, but does not include income derived from the performance of services. U.S. shareholders of a PFIC are subject to a disadvantageous U.S. federal income tax regime with respect to the income derived by the PFIC, the distributions they receive from the PFIC, and the gain, if any, they derive from the sale or other disposition of their interests in the PFIC.

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We believe that we will not be a PFIC for the current taxable year or for any future taxable year. Based on our operations described herein, all or a substantial portion of our income from offshore contract drilling services should be treated as services income and not as passive income, and thus all or a substantial portion of the assets that we own and operate in connection with the production of that income should not constitute passive assets, for purposes of determining whether we are a PFIC. However, this involves a facts and circumstances analysis and it is possible that the IRS would not agree with this conclusion. See Item 10, “Taxation—Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations for Holders of Common Shares—Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules.”

ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

A. HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY

Pacific Drilling S.A. was formed on March 11, 2011, as a Luxembourg corporation in the form of a société anonyme under the Luxembourg law of 10 August 1915 on commercial companies, as amended, to act as an indirect holding company for our Predecessor. Our shares of common stock have been trading on the Norwegian OTC List since April 2011 and on the NYSE since November 2011. Our principal executive offices are located at 37, rue d’Anvers, L-1130 Luxembourg and our telephone number is +352 27 85 81 35. Our agent in Luxembourg is Centralis S.A.

History

Our Predecessor was formed in Liberia in 2006 as an independent operating subsidiary of a predecessor company of the Quantum Pacific Group. The principals of the Quantum Pacific Group have significant holdings in various global industries such as energy, oil refining, transportation and commodities.

Our initial investment in the ultra-deepwater drilling industry in 2006 was through the purchase of a drillship under construction by SHI and the later exercise of an option for a second drillship.

In 2007, we formed TPDI with Transocean, and the two drillships then under construction were transferred into TPDI. We initially formed a construction management team to oversee activities in SHI that was then seconded to Transocean, who assumed responsibility for management of construction and operation of the two TPDI drillships through a contract with TPDI.

In 2008, a decision was made to expand our activities in the ultra-deepwater segment to include operation and marketing of drilling services for our other drillships, the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Mistral, for which construction contracts were acquired in 2007 and were not included in TPDI. As part of this strategy, we acquired additional contracts with SHI to construct two more ultra-deepwater drillships, the Pacific Scirocco and the Pacific Santa Ana.

In the beginning of 2011, we determined that it would benefit us to reincorporate in a better recognized and more attractive jurisdiction for potential investors with a more developed and advanced body of law. On March 30, 2011, we completed the Restructuring and in connection with the Restructuring, Quantum Pacific Group contributed our Predecessor to us. In the beginning of 2011, we also determined that it was in our best interest to focus on the operation and marketing of our wholly-owned fleet. On March 30, 2011, we completed the TPDI Transfer, pursuant to which all of our equity interest in TPDI was transferred to a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group for no consideration. As a result, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries currently owns any interest in TPDI.

Debt and Equity Financings

In September 2010, we entered into the Project Facilities Agreement with a group of lenders to finance the remaining capital expenditures associated with the construction, operation and other expenses relating to the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Scirocco and the Pacific Santa Ana. As of February 15, 2013, we

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have outstanding principal borrowings of $337.5 million, $371.9 million, $320.3 million and $371.9 million under the Bora Term Loan, the Mistral Term Loan, the Scirocco Term Loan and the Santa Ana Term Loan (as such term loans are defined in Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness”), respectively.

In April 2011, we completed the 2011 Private Placement of 60,000,000 common shares for net proceeds of approximately $575.5 million. As a result of this offering, our common shares began to be traded on the Norwegian OTC List on April 5, 2011.

In November 2011, we completed an initial public offering of 6,000,000 common shares. In December 2011, the underwriters purchased an additional 900,000 common shares pursuant to the full exercise of an over-allotment option. The initial public offering resulted in net proceeds of approximately $50.3 million. As a result of this offering, our common shares began to be traded on the NYSE on November 11, 2011 under the ticker symbol “PACD.” As of February 15, 2013, approximately 57,000,000 of our common shares had migrated from the Norwegian OTC List to the NYSE.

In February 2012, we completed a private placement of $300 million in aggregate principal amount of 8.25% senior unsecured U.S. dollar denominated bonds due in 2015 (the “2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds”).

In November 2012, we completed a private placement of $500 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.25% senior secured U.S. dollar denominated notes due in 2017 (the “2017 Senior Secured Notes”). In connection with this private placement, we listed the 2017 Senior Secured Notes on the Global Exchange Market of the Irish Stock Exchange.

On February 19, 2013, we signed the Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement with a group of lenders to finance the remaining capital expenditures associated with the construction, operation and other expenses relating to the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem. As of February 19, 2013, we have no borrowings outstanding under the Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement and have not yet satisfied the conditions to make the initial borrowings under the Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement.

Capital Expenditures

As of December 31, 2012, we have committed approximately $5.1 billion since our inception to establish our ultra-deepwater fleet of which we have paid approximately $3.6 billion. In January 2013, we committed an additional $634 million for the construction of our eighth drillship. During the most recent three fiscal years, the Company’s capital expenditures were $2.9 billion. We funded our capital expenditures through December 31, 2012 with net proceeds of our $500 million senior secured note offering in November 2012, net proceeds of our $300 million senior unsecured bond offering in February 2012, net proceeds of approximately $50.3 million from our initial public offering in November 2011, net proceeds of approximately $575.5 million from our private offering of 60,000,000 common shares to international and U.S. investors in the 2011 Private Placement, borrowings under our $1.8 billion Project Facilities Agreement and related party loans from an affiliate of Quantum Pacific Group, which were subsequently converted into equity. We expect the project cost for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship under construction to be approximately $608.3 million, $662.9 million, $627.8 million and $634.1 million. The estimate of the project costs includes commissioning and testing and other costs for the drillships, but excludes capitalized interest. As of December 31, 2012, there are approximately $1.5 billion remaining project costs for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem of which approximately $1.1 billion is remaining contractual commitments to SHI. The remaining project costs of $390 million for the Pacific Khamsin will be financed with existing cash balances primarily from proceeds under the 2017 Senior Secured Notes. We intend to finance the approximately $1.1 billion remaining project costs for the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem with our Senior Secured Credit Facility and existing cash balances. Additionally, we intend to finance the $634.1 million in project costs for our eighth drillship with our existing cash balances, operating cash flow generation and

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additional future indebtedness, which is uncommitted at this time. For more information on our capital requirements, see Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

B. BUSINESS OVERVIEW

We are an international offshore drilling contractor committed to becoming the preferred provider of ultra-deepwater drilling services to the oil and natural gas industry through the use of high-specification drilling rigs. Our primary business is to contract our ultra-deepwater drilling rigs, related equipment and work crews, primarily on a dayrate basis, to drill wells for our customers. Led by a team of seasoned professionals with significant experience in the oil services and ultra-deepwater drilling sectors, we specialize in the technically demanding segments of the offshore drilling business.

We are primarily focused on the ultra-deepwater market. The term “ultra-deepwater,” as used in the drilling industry to denote a particular sector of the market, can vary and continues to evolve with technological improvements. We generally consider ultra-deepwater to begin at water depths of more than 7,500 feet and to extend to the maximum water depths in which rigs are capable of drilling, which is currently approximately 12,000 feet. Although we are primarily focused on the ultra-deepwater market, our drillships can operate effectively in water depths as shallow as 2,000 feet, so we may also compete to provide services at shallower depths than ultra-deepwater. While not currently a core focus for our business, our drillships are also capable of operating in harsh environment areas, where there are typically rougher sea conditions.

Drilling Contracts for our Fleet

We currently operate four drillships and have four drillships under construction, two of which are under customer contract. The current status of our contracted drillships is as follows:

• The Pacific Bora entered service in Nigeria on August 26, 2011 under a three-year contract with a subsidiary of Chevron.

• The Pacific Scirocco entered service in Nigeria on December 31, 2011 under a one-year contract with a subsidiary of Total. On April 6, 2012, Total exercised its option to extend the Pacific Scirocco contract period to two years.

• The Pacific Mistral entered service in Brazil on February 6, 2012 under a three-year contract with a subsidiary Petrobras.

• The Pacific Santa Ana entered service in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico on May 4, 2012 under a five-year contract with Chevron.

• Upon delivery, the Pacific Khamsin is expected to enter service in one of several countries globally, including Nigeria, Liberia and certain Asian countries, in the fourth quarter of 2013 under a two-year contract with a subsidiary of Chevron. In November 2012, we entered into International Master Service Agreement (“IMA”) with Chevron. Contemporaneously with the IMA we have executed a Service Order (“SO”) for the Pacific Khamsin. The IMA and the SO jointly constitute a drilling contract for the Pacific Khamsin. The IMA allows us to enter into subsequent SO’s with Chevron for the Pacific Khamsin and other rigs. The IMA will greatly simplify the process of entering into new contracts with Chevron.

• Upon delivery, the Pacific Sharav is expected to enter service in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico in the second quarter of 2014 under a five-year contract with a subsidiary of Chevron.

Newbuild Drillships and Options to Purchase Newbuilds

The Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav are currently under construction by SHI, and are scheduled for delivery in the second and fourth quarters of 2013, respectively. In March 2012, we entered into a contract with SHI for the construction of the Pacific Meltem, which is expected to be delivered in the second quarter of 2014.

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In January 2013, we exercised our option and entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of our eighth drillship, which is expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2015.

The construction contract we entered into for our eighth drillship includes an option for a ninth newbuild drillship on the same terms and conditions as those for our eighth drillship. The option is valid until April 30, 2013. We will continue to evaluate the long-term conditions of the deepwater and ultra-deepwater drilling markets among other factors in determining whether to exercise this option.

Offshore Drilling Industry

Because our drillships are highly mobile, our fleet will operate in a single, global market segment for the provision of contract drilling services to the deepwater and ultra-deepwater exploration and production industry. Deepwater and ultra-deepwater drillships typically compete in many of the same geographies as high-specification semi-submersible rigs. However, newer ultra-deepwater drillships like those in our fleet generally have greater load capacity and are more mobile than semi-submersible rigs, making them better suited for drilling in remote locations where re-supply is more difficult and for exploration programs that require frequent rig relocation. All of our drillships are self-propelled and dynamically positioned and have large carrying capacity. We believe the long-term prospects for deepwater drilling are positive given the expected growth in oil and gas consumption from developing nations, limited growth in crude oil supplies and high depletion rates of mature oil and gas fields. Recent exploration successes in deepwater basins, improving access to promising deepwater areas and new, more efficient technologies, are expected to be catalysts for the long-term exploration and development of deepwater fields. The location of our drillships and the allocation of resources to build or upgrade rigs will be determined by the activities and needs of our customers. Currently, our four completed drillships are operating in the deepwater regions of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, Brazil and West Africa, which are the three most active deepwater basins in the world.

As of December 31, 2012, the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco were located offshore Nigeria, the Pacific Mistral was located offshore Brazil, the Pacific Santa Ana was located offshore the United States and the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem were located offshore South Korea, where they are under construction by SHI.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the percentage revenues earned by geographic area as follows is based on drilling location:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Nigeria		63.6	%		100.0	%		—
Brazil		22.1	%		—			—
Gulf of Mexico		14.3	%		—			—

Our Business Strategies

Our principal business objective is to increase shareholder value through becoming the preferred provider of ultra-deepwater drilling services to the oil and natural gas industry. We expect to achieve this objective through the following strategies:

• Establish position as the preferred ultra-deepwater drilling contractor with newly built high-specification units. High-specification drilling units are specifically designed to meet the requirements of our customers for drilling wells in deepwater basins and complex geological formations and for drilling wells with challenging profiles. In addition, we believe that our new drilling units have a competitive advantage over older units due to their improved safety and environmental protection

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features, greater efficiency and enhanced mobility. Furthermore, it is easier to attract more experienced operating personnel to newer drilling units due to their superior working and living conditions and potential for better career opportunities. We believe that we can develop an enduring competitive advantage through the combination of high-quality assets and industry leading operating systems focused on deepwater operations, excellence in functional support and a strong performance management focus.

• Capitalize on increased exploration and development activity in select deepwater basins. As demand for hydrocarbons increases and mature producing basins naturally decline, we believe there will be an increasing emphasis on exploration and development in deeper waters to exploit new and attractive prospects. Recent major discoveries in deepwater basins, together with technological advances that make such exploratory and development activities more economic, have increased potential development opportunities for deepwater drilling services. We believe that the water-depth and advanced drilling capabilities of our ultra-deepwater drilling units will further our ability to secure long-term ultra-deepwater contracts in the future. Our strategic approach to the market includes focusing our activities in select basins to enjoy the benefits resulting from sharing local support resources in targeted geographies.

• Develop strategic relationships with high-quality customers. We expect to derive a significant portion of our future revenue from contracts with major international and national oil companies and large well-capitalized independent exploration and production companies. These customers tend to take a long-term approach to the development of substantial hydrocarbon finds with multi-year development programs as well as multi-year capital expenditure commitments, which we believe will enhance the likelihood of our securing attractive long-term drilling contracts. In November 2012, we entered into an International Master Service Agreement (“IMA”) with Chevron. The IMA governs the relationship with our largest customer for the Pacific Khamsin and other future requirements and simplifies the process of entering into new drilling contracts with Chevron, which thus increases the likelihood of securing future drilling contracts with Chevron.

Company Strengths

We have a number of strengths that we believe will help us to successfully execute our business strategies:

• New and technologically advanced fleet. Our fleet is comprised of some of the newest and most technologically advanced drillships in the world. Each of our premium, high-specification drillships is designed to operate in water depths of up to 12,000 feet. Furthermore, our ultra-deepwater drillships are self-propelled, dynamically positioned and suitable for drilling in remote locations. Our high-specification units are expected to achieve faster drilling and shorter transportation times between locations relative to older units in the market. In addition, the Pacific Santa Ana, the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship will have dual gradient drilling capabilities and also offer enhanced capabilities for well completion work.

• Strong backlog with credit-worthy counterparties. We have and are continuing to develop a strong revenue backlog that currently consists of contracts for four of our drillships with a subsidiary of Chevron and contracts for two other drillships with subsidiaries of Total and Petrobras. As of February 15, 2013, our contract backlog on the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Santa Ana, the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav under these contracts was approximately $3.3 billion. We believe these high-quality customer commitments will provide us with a stable cash flow for the next several years.

• Uniformity of assets supports competitive cost structure and optimal revenue capture. The uniformity of our assets enables efficient and streamlined labor, maintenance, supply chain and operating support systems, which we believe will allow us to develop and maintain a competitive cost structure and maximize our revenue capture. The similarity of our ship designs allows for interoperability among our crews and operating systems, which should allow members of our crew to serve interchangeably on

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any of our drillships. Additionally, our drillships’ consistent technical specifications and equipment make spare parts interchangeable, which reduces the capital requirements associated with keeping spare parts in stock, lowering maintenance and supply chain costs.

• Demonstrated ability to maintain relationships with blue chip customers. We have continued to maintain strong relationships with our customers, as demonstrated by the four separate drilling contracts we have entered into over the past three years with subsidiaries of Chevron, the IMA and the exercise by Total in April of this year of its option to extend the Pacific Scirocco contract period to two years. We believe that our ability to maintain relationships with blue chip customers and the long-term demand for deepwater drilling capacity in established and emerging basins will provide us with opportunities to contract our drillships under construction and maintain the utilization of our drillships in the future.

• Solid track record of delivery on time and on budget. Each of our eight drillships were or are being built by SHI, which is one of the world’s largest shipbuilders in the high-tech and high-value shipbuilding sectors. Each of our four operating drillships was delivered from SHI substantially on time and on budget. To date, the manufacture of each of our four newbuilds has progressed substantially on time and on budget. We believe that our strong relationship with a premier shipbuilder coupled with the oversight of our experienced staff managing construction of our newbuilds has allowed us to develop a solid track record of on time and on budget deliveries.

• Experienced and international management team. Our management team has extensive industry experience operating in locations worldwide and an average of more than 25 years of experience in the offshore drilling industry. Prior to joining us, certain members of our senior management team have worked at Transocean Ltd., Schlumberger Limited, Noble Corporation, Ensco plc and Pride International Inc. In addition to the members of the management team, we have an experienced staff overseeing construction of the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship and highly trained personnel operating our four drillships that have commenced operations. We believe that our management team’s significant experience, technical expertise and strong client relationships, and the functional depth throughout our organization, enhance our ability to deliver superior service to our customers and effectively operate on a global basis.

Risk Factors

We face a number of risks associated with our business and industry and must overcome a variety of challenges to utilize our strengths and implement our business strategies. These risks relate to, among others, changes in the offshore contract drilling industry, including supply and demand, utilization rates, dayrates, customer drilling programs and commodity prices; a downturn in the global economy; hazards inherent in our industry and operations resulting in liability for personal injury or loss of life, damage to or destruction of property and equipment, pollution or environmental damage; inability to comply with covenants in our debt agreements; inability to finance capital projects; and inability to successfully employ our drillships.

Readers should carefully consider the following risks, those other risks described in Item 3, “Risk Factors” and the other information in this annual report:

• We have a limited asset base and currently rely on three customer accounts. The loss of any customer or significant downtime on any drillship could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

• The contract drilling industry is highly competitive. Compared to companies with greater resources, we may be at a competitive disadvantage.

• The demand for our services depends on the level of activity in the offshore oil and natural gas industry, which is significantly affected by oil and natural gas prices and other factors beyond our control.

• Our current backlog of contract drilling revenue may not be fully realized.

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Customers

Offshore exploration and production is a capital intensive, high-risk industry. Operating and pursuing opportunities in deepwater basins significantly increases the amount of capital required to effectively conduct such operations. As a result, a significant number of the most active participants in this segment of the offshore exploration and production industry are either national oil companies, major oil and gas companies or well-capitalized large independent oil and gas companies. We expect that our future customers will be well capitalized companies, including state-owned national oil and gas companies, major integrated oil and gas companies and large independent E&P companies.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the percentage revenues earned from our customers was as follows:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Chevron		45.0	%		100.0	%		—
Total		32.9	%		—			—
Petrobras		22.1	%		—			—

Contract Backlog

Our contract backlog includes firm commitments only, which are represented by signed drilling contracts. As of February 15, 2013, our contract backlog was approximately $3.3 billion and was attributable to revenues we expect to generate on the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Santa Ana, the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav under firm contracts with Chevron, Total and Petrobras. We calculate our contract backlog by multiplying the contractual dayrate by the minimum number of days committed under the contracts (excluding options to extend), assuming full utilization, and also include mobilization fees, upgrade reimbursements and other revenue sources, such as the standby rate during upgrades, as stipulated in the contract.

Although we currently do not have a letter of award or a drilling contract for the Pacific Meltem or our eighth drillship, we expect that the long-term demand for deepwater drilling capacity in established and emerging basins should provide us with opportunities to contract both drillships prior to their respective delivery dates.

The actual amounts of revenues earned and the actual periods during which revenues are earned may differ from the amounts and periods shown in the table below due to various factors, including shipyard and maintenance projects, downtime and other factors. In addition, our contracts customarily provide for termination at the election of the customer with an “early termination payment” to be paid to us if a contract is terminated prior to the expiration of the fixed term. However, under certain limited circumstances, such as destruction of a drilling rig, our bankruptcy, sustained unacceptable performance by us or delivery of a rig beyond certain grace and/or liquidated damages periods, no early termination payment would be paid. Accordingly, the actual amount of revenues earned may be substantially lower than the backlog reported.

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The firm commitments that comprise our $3.3 billion contract backlog as of February 15, 2013, are as follows:

Rig	Contracted Location	Customer	Contract Backlog(c)		Contractual Dayrate		Average Contract Backlog Revenue Per Day(c)			Actual/Expected Contract Commencement	Expected Contract Duration
Pacific Bora	Nigeria	Chevron	$	307,947,000	$	474,700	$	554,000		August 26, 2011	3 years(a)
Pacific Scirocco	Nigeria	Total	$	155,242,000	$	474,750	$	475,000		December 31, 2011	2 years and 7 days(b)
Pacific Mistral	Brazil	Petrobras	$	367,969,000	$	458,000	$	511,000		February 6, 2012	3 years
Pacific Santa Ana	U.S. Gulf of Mexico	Chevron	$	830,856,000	$	488,900	$	542,000		March 21, 2012(d)	5 years and 38 days
Pacific Khamsin	Footnote(f)	Chevron	$	526,140,000	$	660,000	$	722,000	(e)	Fourth quarter 2013	2 years(g)
Pacific Sharav	U.S. Gulf of Mexico	Chevron	$	1,075,875,000	$	555,000	$	590,000		Second quarter 2014	5 years

(a) Contract also provides for two successive un-priced one-year options.

(b) The initial primary term of the Pacific Scirocco was one year. On April 6, 2012, Total exercised its option to extend the Pacific Scirocco contract period to two years. The contract also provides for one successive one-year option and a further two-year option, with escalating dayrates for the option periods.

(c) Rounded to the nearest $1,000. Based on signed drilling contracts.

(d) On March 21, 2012, the Pacific Santa Ana was accepted and commenced its five-year contract with Chevron while mobilizing to the United States Gulf of Mexico. On May 4, 2012, the Pacific Santa Ana completed all necessary activities for commencement of revenue recognition and placing the Pacific Santa Ana into service in the United States Gulf of Mexico.

(e) Revenues earned and incremental costs incurred directly related to contract preparation and mobilization are deferred and recognized over the primary term of the drilling contract. Average contract backlog revenue per day for the Pacific Khamsin is calculated by dividing the contract backlog revenue which is recognized over the primary term of the drilling contract by the remaining number of days committed under the two-year contract. The drilling contract also includes $10 million in demobilization fees that are deferred and will be recognized as revenue in a lump sum upon conclusion of the drilling contract; accordingly, this $10 million is not included in the average contract backlog revenue per day for the Pacific Khamsin.

(f) Customer has the right to deploy the rig in one of several countries, including Nigeria, Liberia and certain countries in Asia. The indicated contractual dayrate is based on deployment in Nigeria. The contract provides for a make-whole adjustment to the contractual dayrate for change in drilling locale.

(g) Contract also provides for a one-year option to be exercised at the client’s discretion prior to shipyard delivery of the drillship. The contractual dayrate of the one-year option period is $680,000.

Drilling Contracts

We provide drilling services on a “dayrate” contract basis. We do not provide “turnkey” or other risk-based drilling services. Under dayrate contracts, the drilling contractor provides a drilling rig and rig crews and charges the customer a fixed amount per day regardless of the number of days needed to drill the well. The customer bears substantially all of the ancillary costs of constructing the well and supporting drilling operations, as well as the economic risk relative to the success of the well. In addition, dayrate contracts usually provide for a lump sum amount for mobilizing the rig to the well location and a reduced dayrate when drilling operations are interrupted or restricted by equipment breakdowns, adverse weather conditions or other conditions beyond the contractor’s control. A dayrate drilling contract generally covers either the drilling of a single well or group of wells or has a stated term. These contracts may generally be terminated by the customer in the event the drilling unit is damaged, destroyed or lost or if drilling operations are suspended for an extended period of time as a result of a breakdown of equipment, “force majeure” events beyond the control of either party or upon the occurrence of other specified conditions. In addition, drilling contracts with certain customers may be cancelable, without cause, with little or no prior notice but are usually subject to early termination payments. In some instances, the dayrate contract term may be extended by the customer exercising options for the drilling of additional wells or for an additional length of time at fixed or mutually agreed terms, including dayrates.

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Our drilling contracts are the result of negotiations with our customers and have been awarded upon competitive bidding. Our existing drilling contracts contain, among others, the following commercial terms: (i) contract duration extending over a specific period of time; (ii) term extension options in favor of our customer, generally upon advance notice to us, at mutually agreed, indexed or fixed rates; (iii) provisions permitting early termination of the contract if the drilling unit is lost or destroyed, if operations are suspended for an extended period of time due to breakdown of major rig equipment, unsatisfactory performance or “force majeure” events beyond our control and the control of the customer; (iv) provisions allowing early termination of the contract by the customer without cause with a specified early termination fee in the form of a reduced rate for a specified period of time; (v) provisions requiring us to reimburse the customer for reasonable costs to obtain a replacement drilling unit in the event of termination for cause, subject to a cap which decreases with the duration of contract; (vi) payment of compensation to us (generally in U.S. dollars although some contracts require a portion of the compensation to be paid in local currency) on a “dayrate” basis (lower rates or no compensation generally apply during periods of equipment breakdown and repair or in the event operations are suspended or interrupted by other specified conditions, some of which may be beyond our control); (vii) payment by us of the operating expenses of the drilling unit, including crew labor and incidental rig supply costs; (viii) provisions allowing us to recover certain labor and other operating cost increases from our customers through dayrate adjustment or otherwise; (ix) provisions requiring us to provide a performance guarantee; and (x) indemnity provisions between us and our customers in respect of third party claims and risk allocations between us and our customers relating to damages, claims or losses to us, our customers or third parties. Our indemnification may not cover all damages, claims or losses to us or third parties, and the indemnifying party may not have sufficient resources to cover its indemnification obligations. See also Item 3, “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—Our customers may be unable or unwilling to indemnify us.”

Our drilling contracts provide for varying levels of indemnification from our customers and in most cases may require us to indemnify our customers. Under our drilling contracts, liability with respect to personnel and property is customarily assigned on a “knock-for-knock” basis, which means that we and our customers assume liability for our respective personnel and property. However, in certain drilling contracts we assume liability for damage to our customer’s property and other third-party property on the rig resulting from services provided under the contract, subject to negotiated caps per occurrence, and in other contracts we are not indemnified by our customers for damage to their property and, accordingly, could be liable for any such damage under applicable law. In addition, our customers typically indemnify us for damage to our equipment down-hole, and in some cases our subsea equipment, generally based on replacement cost minus some level of depreciation.

Our customers typically assume responsibility for and indemnify us from any loss or liability resulting from pollution or contamination, including clean-up and removal and third-party damages, arising from operations under the contract and originating below the surface of the land or water, including as a result of blow-outs or cratering of the well. In some drilling contracts, however, we may have liability for damages resulting from such pollution or contamination caused by our gross negligence, or, in some cases, ordinary negligence. The indemnification provisions typically found in our drilling contracts is only a summary as of the date hereof and is general in nature. The terms of our drilling contracts may change in the future. In addition, the indemnification provisions of our drilling contracts may be subject to differing interpretations, and enforcement of those provisions may be limited by public policy and other considerations.

Competition

The contract drilling industry is highly competitive. Demand for contract drilling and related services is influenced by a number of factors, including the current and expected prices of oil and natural gas and the expenditures of oil and natural gas companies for exploration and development of oil and natural gas. In addition, demand for drilling services remains dependent on a variety of political and economic factors beyond our control, including worldwide demand for oil and natural gas, the ability of OPEC to set and maintain production levels and pricing, the level of production of non-OPEC countries, local infrastructure and human resources constraints, and the policies of the various governments regarding exploration and development of their oil and natural gas reserves.

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We are primarily focused on the ultra-deepwater market, but may also compete to provide services at shallower depths than ultra-deepwater. Our competition ranges from large international companies offering a wide range of drilling and other oilfield services to smaller, locally owned companies. Competition for offshore drilling rigs is usually on a global basis, as these offshore drilling rigs are highly mobile and may be moved from one region to another in response to demand.

Drilling contracts are generally awarded on a competitive bid or negotiated basis. Pricing is often the primary factor in determining which qualified contractor is awarded a job. Rig availability, capabilities, age and each contractor’s safety performance record and reputation for quality also can be key factors in the determination. Operators also may consider crew experience, technical and engineering support, rig location and efficiency, as well as long-term relationships with major international oil companies and national oil companies.

We believe that the market for drilling contracts will continue to be highly competitive for the foreseeable future. We believe that our fleet of newly constructed premium high-specification drillships provides us with a competitive advantage over competitors with older fleets, as high-specification drilling units are generally better suited to meet the requirements of customers for drilling in deepwater, complex geological formations with challenging well profiles. However, certain competitors may have greater financial resources than we do, which may enable them to better withstand periods of low utilization and compete more effectively on the basis of price.

Seasonality

In general, seasonal factors do not have a significant direct effect on our business as most of our drilling units are contracted for periods of at least 12 months.

Insurance

The contract drilling industry is subject to hazards inherent in the drilling of oil and natural gas wells, including blowouts and well fires, which could cause personal injury, suspend drilling operations, or seriously damage or destroy the equipment involved. Offshore drilling operations are also subject to hazards particular to marine operations including capsizing, grounding, collision and loss or damage from severe weather. While we maintain insurance to protect our drillships in the areas in which we operate, certain political risks and other environmental risks are not fully insurable. We maintain insurance coverage that includes coverage for hull and machinery, marine liabilities, third party liability, workers’ compensation and employer’s liability, general liability, vessel pollution and other coverages.

Our insurance coverage includes deductibles that we must pay or absorb. Our hull and machinery deductible is $5 million, except as may be required by our drilling contracts. The insured amounts for the drillships are determined by management and reevaluated annually. The minimum insured values are determined by the requirements of the Project Facilities Agreement and amount to the greater of 80% of fair market value and 120% of the outstanding loan amount per vessel. As of February 15, 2013, the combined insured values of the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana is approximately $2.8 billion. We also maintain loss of hire insurance which carries a 45-day waiting period and an annual aggregate limit of 180 days. We also maintain protection and indemnity (P&I) coverage for an aggregate amount of $500 million with the Gard P&I Club for our drillships operating outside the Gulf of Mexico. The deductible for P&I-related claims are $10,000 and $100,000 per event for claims brought before foreign and U.S. jurisdictions, respectively. For the Pacific Santa Ana operating in the Gulf of Mexico, we have procured a primary maritime employers liability and general liability program. We schedule our marine liabilities (other than the P&I and the General Liability with the Gard P&I Club) to an excess liability program for a limit of $650 million for the Pacific Santa Ana. In addition, we have procured insurance coverage for onshore general liability, employer’s liability, auto liability and non-owned aircraft liability, with customary deductibles and coverage. These policies renew annually and are scheduled to our Excess Liability program.

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Our insurance is subject to exclusions and limitations, and our insurance coverage may not adequately protect us against liability from all potential consequences and damages. We believe that our insurance coverage is customary for the industry and adequate for our business. However, there are risks that such insurance will not adequately protect us against or may not be available to cover all of the liability from all of the consequences and hazards we may encounter in our operations.

Environmental and Other Regulatory Issues

Our operations are subject to stringent and comprehensive international, federal, regional, state and local laws and regulations including those governing the discharge of materials into the environment or otherwise relating to environmental protection.

United States

Applicable laws in the United States with which we must comply include the federal OPA, the OCSLA, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly referred to as the Clean Water Act, “CWA”) and MARPOL, as each has been amended from time to time.

Numerous governmental agencies, which in the United States include, among others, the DOI, BOEM, BSEE, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”), issue regulations to implement and enforce environmental laws, which often require difficult and costly compliance measures that carry substantial administrative, civil and criminal penalties or may result in injunctive relief for failure to comply.

Following the April 2010 fire and explosion aboard the Deepwater Horizon semi-submersible drilling rig owned by a competitor and subsequent release of oil from the Macondo well in ultra-deep water of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, the federal government, acting through the DOI and its implementing agencies that have since evolved into the present day BOEM and BSEE, have issued a variety of regulatory initiatives including regulations and NTLs intended to impose additional safety, operational, permitting and certification requirements that are applicable to our oil and natural gas exploration, development and production customers in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. These regulatory initiatives effectively slowed down the pace of drilling and production operations in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico as adjustments were being made in operating procedures, certification requirements and lead times for inspections, drilling applications and permits, and exploration and production plan reviews, and as the federal agencies evolved into their present day bureaus. Implementation of these new or newly interpreted existing regulations and other regulatory initiatives developed by the DOI or otherwise adopted and implemented by BOEM or BSEE may subject us and our customers to increased costs or delay or limit operations by us in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico.

The OPA and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto impose a variety of regulations on “responsible parties” related to the prevention and/or reporting of oil spills and liability for damages resulting from such spills in waters of the United States. Under OPA, the “responsible party” includes the owner or operator of an onshore facility, pipeline or vessel or the lessee or permittee of the area in which an offshore facility is located. OPA assigns liability to each responsible party for oil removal costs and a variety of public and private damages. Under OPA, as amended by the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2006, “tank vessels” of over 3,000 gross tons that carry oil or other hazardous materials in bulk as cargo are subject to liability limits of (i) for a single-hulled vessel, the greater of $3,200 per gross ton or $23.5 million or (ii) for a tank vessel other than a single-hulled vessel, the greater of $2,000 per gross ton or $17.1 million. “Tank vessels” of 3,000 gross tons or less are subject to liability limits of (i) for a single-hulled vessel, the greater of $3,200 per gross ton or $6.4 million or (ii) for a tank vessel other than a single-hulled vessel, the greater of $2,000 per gross ton or $4.3 million. For any vessels, other than “tank vessels,” that are subject to OPA, the liability limits are the greater of $1,000 per gross ton or $854,400. A party cannot take advantage of liability limits if the spill was caused by gross negligence or willful misconduct or resulted from violation of a federal safety, construction or operating regulation. If the party fails to report a spill or to cooperate fully in the cleanup, the liability limits likewise do not apply and certain defenses may not be available. Moreover, OPA imposes on responsible parties the need for proof of financial responsibility to cover at least some costs in a potential spill.

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The OPA also imposes ongoing requirements on a responsible party, including preparedness and prevention of oil spills and preparation of an oil spill response plan.

The OCSLA authorizes regulations relating to safety and environmental protection applicable to lessees and permittees operating on the outer continental shelf. Included among these are regulations that require the preparation of spill contingency plans and establish air quality standards for certain pollutants, including particulate matter, volatile organic compounds, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. Specific design and operational standards may apply to outer continental shelf vessels, rigs, platforms, vehicles and structures. Violations of lease conditions or regulations related to the environment issued pursuant to the OCSLA can result in substantial civil and criminal penalties, as well as potential court injunctions curtailing operations and canceling leases. Such enforcement liabilities can result from either governmental or citizen prosecution.

The CWA and analogous state laws prohibit the discharge of oil, hazardous substances, or other pollutants into water of the United States and analogous state waters without a permit and impose strict liability in the form of penalties for unauthorized discharges. The regulations implementing the CWA require permits to be obtained by an operator before specified exploration activities occur. Our drilling operations may require authorization (and be subject to corresponding restrictions) to discharge wastewater, drilling fluids, and other substances into the U.S. Gulf of Mexico under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (“NPDES”) permit program. NPDES authorization requires advance notification to governmental authorities, monitoring and recordkeeping practices, and may restrict practices other than discharges to water. For example, NPDES authorization available to many oil and gas exploration facilities in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico under NPDES General Permit GMG290000 also includes requirements applicable to cooling water intake structures. Offshore facilities must also implement plans addressing spill prevention control and countermeasures. In addition, the CWA regulates discharges incidental to the normal operation of vessels in U.S. waters, including discharges of ballast water. Operators of regulated vessels are required to obtain “Vessel General Permits” from the EPA, which include effluent limits, specific corrective actions, inspections and monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting requirements.

The CERCLA, also known as the “Superfund” law, and analogous state law imposes liability without regard to fault or the legality of the original conduct on certain classes of persons that are considered to have contributed to the release of a “hazardous substance” into the environment. These persons include the current or past owners or operators of a site where the release occurred and companies that disposed or arranged for the disposal of the hazardous substances found at a particular site. Under CERCLA, such responsible parties may be subject to joint and several liabilities for the cost of cleaning up the hazardous substances that have been released into the environment and for damages to natural resources. It is not uncommon for third parties to file claims for personal injury and property damage allegedly caused by the hazardous substances released into the environment. We generate and handle wastes and other substances in the ordinary course of our operations that may be classified as hazardous substances.

The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act regulates the generation, transportation, storage, treatment and disposal of hazardous and nonhazardous wastes and requires states to develop programs to ensure the safe disposal of wastes. In connection with routine operations, we generate nonhazardous wastes and small quantities of hazardous wastes. We believe that all of the wastes that we generate are handled in substantial compliance with the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and analogous state statutes.

The United States is one of approximately 170 member countries to the International Maritime Organization (“IMO”), a specialized agency of the United Nations that is responsible for developing measures to improve the safety and security of international shipping and to prevent marine pollution from ships. Among the various international conventions negotiated by the IMO is MARPOL. MARPOL imposes environmental standards on the shipping industry relating to oil spills, management of garbage, the handling and disposal of noxious liquids, harmful substances in packaged forms, sewage and air emissions. Annex VI to MARPOL sets limits on sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions from ship exhausts and prohibits deliberate emissions of ozone depleting substances. Annex VI entered into force on May 19, 2005, and applies to all ships, fixed and floating drilling rigs and other floating platforms. Annex VI also imposes a global cap on the sulfur content of fuel oil and allows for

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specialized areas to be established internationally with more stringent controls on sulfur emissions. For vessels 400 gross tons and greater, platforms and drilling rigs, Annex VI imposes various survey and certification requirements. Annex VI came into force in the United States on January 8, 2009. Moreover, on July 1, 2010, amendments to Annex VI to the MARPOL Convention took effect requiring the imposition of progressively stricter limitations on sulfur emissions from ships. As a result, limitations imposed on sulfur emissions will require that marine fuels of vessels in covered Emission Control Areas (“ECAs”) contain no more than 1% sulfur. In August 2012, the North American ECA became enforceable. The North American ECA includes areas subject to the exclusive sovereignty of the United States and extends up to 200 nautical miles from the coasts of the United States, which area includes parts of the U.S. Gulf of Mexico. Consequently, beginning on January 1, 2012, limits on marine fuel used to power ships in non-ECA areas were capped at 3.5% sulfur and, on August 1, 2012, when the North American ECA became effective, the sulfur limit in marine fuel was capped at 1%, which is the capped amount for all other ECA areas effective January 1, 2012. These capped amounts will then decrease progressively until they reach 0.5% by January 1, 2020 for non-ECA areas and 0.1% by January 1, 2015 for ECA areas, including the North American ECA. The amendments also establish new tiers of stringent nitrogen oxide emissions standards for new marine engines, depending on their date of installation. In addition, MARPOL Annex VI, Chapter 4, introduces two mandatory mechanisms intended to ensure an energy efficiency standard for ships which are the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) for new ships and the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) for all ships. These measures entered into force on 1 January 2013. We do not anticipate that compliance with MARPOL or Annex VI to MARPOL will have a material adverse effect on our results of operations or financial position.

Greenhouse gas emissions have increasingly become the subject of international, national, regional, state and local attention. Cap and trade initiatives to limit greenhouse gas emissions have been introduced in the European Union. Similarly, numerous bills related to climate change have been introduced in the U.S. Congress, which could adversely impact most industries. In addition, future regulation of greenhouse gas could occur pursuant to future treaty obligations, statutory or regulatory changes or new climate change legislation in the jurisdictions in which we operate. It is uncertain whether any of these initiatives will be implemented. Restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions or other related legislative or regulatory enactments could have an effect in those industries that use significant amounts of petroleum products, which could potentially result in a reduction in demand for petroleum products and, consequently and indirectly, our offshore support services. While we are currently unable to predict how legislation or new regulations that may be adopted to address greenhouse gas emissions would impact the Company’s or our customers’ business, any such future laws and regulations that require reporting of greenhouse gases or otherwise limit emissions of greenhouse gases from our or our Customers’ equipment and operations could require us and our Customers to incur costs to monitor and report on greenhouse gas emissions or reduce emissions of greenhouse gases associated with our respective operations, and the effect of such requirements also could adversely affect demand for the oil and natural gas that our customers produce, which adverse effect on demand could, in turn, significantly decrease demand for our services. Furthermore, one of the asserted long-term physical effects of climate change may be an increase in the severity and frequency of adverse weather conditions, such as hurricanes, which may damage our drillship and other facilities, increase our insurance costs or risk retention, limit insurance availability or reduce the areas in which, or the number of days during which, our customers would contract for our vessels in general and in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico in particular. We are currently unable to predict the manner or extent of any such effect.

Nigeria

Environmental laws that affect our operations under Nigerian jurisdiction include, but are not necessarily limited to, the laws described below. While we believe that we are in substantial compliance with the current environmental laws and regulations, there is no assurance that compliance with current laws and regulations or amended or newly adopted laws and regulations can be maintained in the future or that future expenditures required to comply with all such laws and regulations in the future will not be material.

We, as an independent drilling contractor, are subject to Petroleum (Drilling and Production) Amendment Regulations 1988 (the “Regulations”) which requires us to be accredited with the Department of Petroleum

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Resources (the “DPR”). The Guidelines and Application Form for Oil & Gas Industry Service Permit issued by the DPR (the “DPR Guidelines”) require that we are accredited and issued with a permit by the DPR (the “DPR Permit”) in order to carry out the services in the Industry. We have received and must annually renew the DPR permit in accordance with the DPR Guidelines. In addition to the DPR permit, under the Local Content Act (as defined below), we are required to be registered with the Joint Qualification System (“JQS”). The Nigerian Petroleum Exchange (“NIPEX”) administers the JQS. NIPEX is required to pre-qualify companies and categorize them into its database as a prerequisite for any company intending to offer services in the Industry and forms the basis for an invitation to tender for contracts. Under the Regulations we are also required to obtain a valid license prior to operating a drilling rig (a “Drilling Rig Permit”). A Drilling Rig Permit is granted by the Minister of Petroleum Resources (“Minister”) or any other public officer in the Ministry authorized by the Minister in writing in that regard.

Our operations are also subject to the provisions of the Environmental Guidelines and Standards for the Petroleum Industry of Nigeria (“EGASPIN” or the “Guidelines”) which establish a uniform monitoring and control program in relation to discharges arising from oil exploration and development in Nigeria.

The Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act, 2010 (the “Local Content Act”) was enacted to provide for the development, implementation and monitoring of Nigerian content in the oil and gas industry and places particular emphasis on the promotion of Nigerian content among companies bidding for contracts in the oil and gas industry rather than the equity distribution of the relevant companies. The Local Content Act requires contractors within the oil and gas industry to comply with the minimum Nigerian Content specified for each particular project item, service or product specification as set out in Schedule A of the Local Content Act (the “Schedule”). The Schedule provides the parameters and minimum level/percentages to be utilized in determining and measuring Nigerian Content in the composite human, material resources and services applied by operators and contractors in any project in the Industry. The most relevant categories under the Schedule for us fall under the headings of “Well and Drilling Services/Petroleum Technology” and “Exploration, Subsurface, Petroleum Engineering and Seismic.” The activities listed therein include: “Producing Drilling Services” and “Drilling Rigs Semi-submersibles/Jack ups/others” which both apply to us. For offshore drilling services within the above referenced categories the minimum required Nigerian Content for the provision of such services provided in the Schedule is stated in terms of “Manhours” (i.e. human resources); and is 85% and 55%, respectively. In the event there is insufficient Nigerian capacity to satisfy the minimum percentages prescribed in the Schedule, the Minister may authorize the continued importation of the relevant item or personnel for a maximum period of three-years from the commencement of the Local Content Act. This implies that the Minister may grant a waiver for up to a maximum of three-years from the commencement of the Local Content Act (i.e. by 2013). Subject to any amendments to the Local Content Act, and/or guidelines issued by the Nigerian Content Monitoring Board (“NCMB”) clarifying certain provisions of the Local Content Act, all entities must comply with the provisions of the Local Content Act.

We are required to submit a proposed Nigerian Content Execution Plan and will provide a Monthly Nigerian Content Report, a document that details the amount of Nigerian content utilized in the performance of the contract.

In addition to the above Nigerian Content requirements, Nigerian subsidiaries of international companies are required to demonstrate that a minimum of 50% of the equipment deployed for execution of works is owned by the Nigerian subsidiary.

The Local Content Act also requires that our Nigerian subsidiary place 100% of its insurance policies with local Nigerian insurers and that local capacity must have been exhausted before any insurance risk is placed with foreign insurers and any offshore placement of insurance must be with prior approval of the National Insurance Commission.

Brazil

Brazilian oil and gas business is subject to extensive regulations by several governmental agencies, including the National Agency for Oil and Gas (“ANP”), the Brazilian Navy and the Brazilian Authority for

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Environmental Affairs and Renewable Resources (“IBAMA”). Onshore environmental, health and safety conditions which are applicable to our onshore base are controlled by state rather than by federal authorities. Failure to comply may subject us to administrative, criminal and civil liability, with strict liability in administrative and civil cases.

An environmental license from IBAMA is a legal requirement for any activity considered hazardous, including offshore drilling. The main piece of legislation concerning environmental licensing at federal level is Law No. 6,938/1981, which deals with the Environmental National Policy and provides for licenses for the installation and operation of oil and gas platforms within the Brazilian territory. Such licenses are usually required from the oil and gas companies, however we, as a drilling contractor, are jointly and severally liable with the oil and gas companies for any environmental damage arising out of drilling activities.

The oil and gas companies must present to the ANP the Documentation of Operational Safety (“DSO”) for all drilling facilities not later than ninety (90) days prior to the expected date of commencement of operations. The DSO approval from the ANP is required prior to commencement of operations. Any violations of the ANP regulations are subject to the penalties described in ANP Regulation No. 234/03, namely: (i) warning; (ii) fine; (iii) temporary suspension of exploration and production activities; (iv) temporary suspension of the right to take part in ANP bids; (v) interdiction; (vi) seizure; and (vii) termination of the concession contract, as the case may be. Violations of safety regulations subject oil and gas companies to fines prescribed by Law No. 9,847/99 ranging between R$ 5,000.00 to 5,000,000.00. In the event of risk to equipment and facilities as well as to the environment and to human life, operations may be suspended for a period ranging from one (1) to one hundred and eighty (180) months. The termination of the concession contract may take place in the event the situation is not rectified within the deadline set out by the ANP. In such circumstances, the oil and gas company is prevented from taking part in ANP bids for up to five (5) years, as set forth in ANP Regulation No. 243/03.

Law No. 9,605/98 is the main Brazilian legislation providing for criminal and administrative liabilities for environmental damage. We, as well as our officers, directors and employees may be subject to criminal liability and penalties which include but are not limited to imprisonment, fines of up to R$ 50,000,000.00, suspension of activities, prohibition to enter into any agreement with the Brazilian government (including Petrobras) or to receive any public subsidies or incentives for up to ten (10) years. The administrative penalties contemplated by Law No. 9,605/95 also include seizure of assets, suspension of activities, revocation of licenses, prohibition to enter into any agreement with the Government (including Petrobras) for up to three (3) years and cancellation or suspension of financing arrangements with state-owned banking institutions.

Our Brazilian operations are exposed to administrative and criminal sanctions, including warnings, fines and closure orders for non-compliance with the environmental regulations. Authorities such as IBAMA and ANP routinely inspect our facilities, and may impose fines, restrictions on operations, or other sanctions as provided in the applicable legislation.

Other Jurisdictions

Our operations outside the United States, Nigeria and Brazil are also subject to various foreign laws, regulations or other enforceable requirements including legal requirements relating to the importation of and operation of drilling rigs and equipment, currency conversions and repatriation, oil and natural gas exploration and development, environmental protection, taxation of offshore earnings and earnings of expatriate personnel, the use of local employees and suppliers by foreign contractors and duties on the importation and exportation of drilling rigs and other equipment. New environmental or safety laws and regulations could be enacted, which could adversely affect our ability to operate in certain foreign jurisdictions. While we believe that we are in substantial compliance with the current environmental laws and regulations, there is no assurance that compliance with current laws and regulations or amended or newly adopted laws and regulations or other governmental regulatory initiative can be maintained in the future or that future expenditures required to comply with all such laws and regulations in the future will not be material. Moreover, governments in some foreign countries have become increasingly active in regulating and controlling the ownership of concessions and

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companies holding concessions, the exploration for oil and natural gas and other aspects of the oil and natural gas industries in their countries. In some areas of the world, this governmental activity has adversely affected the amount of exploration and development work done by major oil and natural gas companies and may continue to do so. Operations in less developed countries can be subject to legal systems that are not as mature or predictable as those in more developed countries, which can lead to greater uncertainty in legal matters and proceedings.

C. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

For a full listing of our subsidiaries, see Exhibit 21.1. All subsidiaries are, indirectly or directly, wholly-owned by us, other than PIDWAL. See “Joint Venture, Agency and Sponsorship Relationships” below.

As of February 15, 2013, Quantum Pacific Group owns 150,000,000 shares, or approximately 69.2% of our total outstanding common shares. The 150,000,000 common shares owned by the Quantum Pacific Group are held by Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Quantum Pacific International Limited, the indirect ultimate owner of which is a trust in which Idan Ofer and certain members of his family are the primary beneficiaries.

Joint Venture, Agency and Sponsorship Relationships

In some areas of the world, local customs and practice or governmental requirements necessitate the formation of joint ventures with local participation. Local laws or customs in some areas of the world also effectively mandate establishment of a relationship with a local agent or sponsor. When appropriate in these areas, we will enter into agency or sponsorship agreements. For more information regarding the regulations in the countries in which we currently are contracted to operate, see Item 4, “Business Overview—Environmental and Other Regulatory Issues.”

We currently are party to a Nigerian joint venture, PIDWAL, which is fully controlled and 90% owned by us with 10% owned by Derotech, a privately-held Nigerian registered limited liability company. Derotech will not accrue the economic benefits of its interest in PIDWAL unless and until it satisfies certain outstanding obligations to us and a certain pledge is cancelled by us. Derotech is also performing marketing services for PIDWAL and an affiliate of Derotech acts as one of PIDWAL’s logistics agents. After the maturity of the Project Facilities Agreement and subject to the terms of our shareholder’s agreement with Derotech, Derotech will have the right to purchase up to a 50% ownership interest in PIDWAL at a fair market value price and subject to additional mutually agreed upon terms. Additionally, the shareholder’s agreement provides that as long as Derotech is a shareholder in PIDWAL, neither we nor Derotech may compete with the business of PIDWAL without written consent. PIDWAL is a party to the Pacific Bora contract with a subsidiary of Chevron and the Pacific Scirocco contract with a subsidiary of Total. In order to satisfy certain commitments made to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, we expect to convey up to a 50% interest in Pacific Bora Ltd. and Pacific Scirocco Ltd. to PIDWAL. In August 2012, we transferred 10% of the ownership of Pacific Scirocco Ltd. to PIDWAL as an initial step towards satisfying our prior commitment.

In addition, we have retained a marketing agent in Brazil and have agreements with agents in Brazil pursuant to which the agents, among other activities, process visas, customs clearance of routine shipments of equipment, materials and supplies and process temporary importation permits, extensions and renewals.

D. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

The Fleet

Our fleet consists of some of the newest and most technologically advanced drillships in the world, enabling us to offer ultra-deepwater drilling services to customers worldwide. Our fleet will, on the basis of our current contracts, consist of eight newly constructed sixth and seventh generation ultra-deepwater drillships based on a proven design from SHI using well-established advanced drilling systems from National Oilwell Varco (“NOV”).

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The following table sets forth certain information regarding our high-specification, ultra-deepwater drillships as of February 15, 2013:

Rig	Date Delivered/ Expected Delivery	Water Depth Capacity (in feet)		Drilling Depth Capacity (in feet)		Status
Pacific Bora(a)(d)	October 2010		10,000		37,500	Operating
Pacific Scirocco(b)	April 2011		12,000		40,000	Operating
Pacific Mistral(a)	June 2011		12,000		37,500	Operating
Pacific Santa Ana(b)(c)	December 2011		12,000		40,000	Operating
Pacific Khamsin(b)(c)	June 2013		12,000		40,000	Under construction
Pacific Sharav(b)(c)	4th Quarter 2013		12,000		40,000	Under construction
Pacific Meltem (b)(c)	2nd Quarter 2014		12,000		40,000	Under construction
Pacific TBN #8 (b)(c)	1st Quarter 2015		12,000		40,000	Under construction

(a) These drillships have an off-line stand building system, which permits sections (stands) of the drill string and casing to be assembled and racked for future use while drilling operations are in progress on the main well center without interruption or delay.

(b) These drillships have, or upon completion will have, dual load path capability, which allows two drilling stations under a single derrick to simultaneously conduct lifting operations.

(c) These drillships have, or upon completion will have, dual gradient drilling upgrades. Dual gradient drilling is a technology that allows two different pressure gradients to be maintained in the well (one in the drilling riser and one in the well below the mudline) by a process of replacing mud from the drilling riser with a seawater-density fluid.

(d) Maximum water depth could be extended to up to 12,000 feet with drillship modifications.

Five of our drillships will have dual gradient drilling capabilities. Dual gradient drilling is a technology that allows two different pressure gradients to be maintained in the well (one in the drilling riser and one in the well below the mudline) by a process of replacing mud from the drilling riser with a seawater-density fluid. Pursuant to our drilling contract with Chevron for the use of the Pacific Santa Ana, we have been granted a non-exclusive, world-wide, royalty-free license to use the technical information, data, and knowledge made available by Chevron for not only the Pacific Santa Ana but also our non-dual gradient drilling operations on all of our other drilling units. Provided that this drilling contract remains in effect, we will have a non-exclusive, world-wide, royalty-free license to use this information, data and knowledge in any manner (presumably including dual gradient drilling operations) on any of our drilling units after February 1, 2014. Although dual gradient drilling technology was technically proven ten years ago, the Pacific Santa Ana will be the first rig to deploy this technology for commercial application and the dual gradient drilling concepts that will be deployed by the Pacific Santa Ana are disclosed in patents assigned to Chevron. We believe that many operators may become interested in deploying dual gradient drilling technology for deepwater wells because it enables better well control, reduces the required number of casing strings, and allows for larger wellbore at total depth and larger production liner. These technical benefits may result in savings in cost and time per well and higher flow rates, enabling the operator to drill wells that would have been considered uneconomic or “undrillable” and book reserves that would have not been otherwise booked. However, there is no certainty that we will achieve these expected benefits from our dual gradient drilling capabilities. See Item 3, “Risk Factors—Dual gradient drilling techniques may not result in the currently expected benefits and, as a result, adequate demand may not develop for these capabilities.”

In March 2011, we entered into two contracts with SHI for the construction of our fifth and sixth advanced-capability, ultra-deepwater drillships, the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav. In March 2012, we entered into a contract with SHI for the construction of the Pacific Meltem. In January 2013, we exercised our option and entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of our eighth drillship. Similar to several other vessels in our existing fleet, the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship are also based on SHI’s proprietary hull design with many of the required enhancements to meet our operational needs and comply with recent client requirements, have dual gradient drilling capabilities and improved

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completion capabilities and are designed for drilling in water depths of up to 12,000 feet. Following shipyard construction, commissioning and testing, the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship are expected to be delivered to us at the shipyard in June 2013, the fourth quarter of 2013, the second quarter of 2014 and the first quarter of 2015, respectively. The contracts provide for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $2.0 billion for the acquisition of these four vessels, payable in installments during the construction process. We have the right to rescind the agreement for delays exceeding certain periods or, alternatively, the right to liquidated damages for delays or failures. We expect the project cost for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship under construction to be approximately $608.3 million, $662.9 million, $627.8 million and $634.1 million. The estimate of the project costs includes commissioning and testing and other costs for the drillships, but excludes capitalized interest. As of December 31, 2012, there are approximately $1.5 billion remaining project costs for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem of which approximately $1.1 billion is remaining contractual commitments to SHI. We intend to finance the remaining project costs of $390 million for the Pacific Khamsin with cash on hand primarily from proceeds under the 2017 Senior Secured Notes. The remaining project costs of $390 million for the Pacific Khamsin will be financed with existing cash balances primarily from proceeds under the 2017 Senior Secured Notes. We intend to finance the approximately $1.1 billion remaining project costs for the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem with our Senior Secured Credit Facility and existing cash balances. Additionally, we intend to finance the $634.1 million in project costs for our eighth drillship with our existing cash balances, operating cash flow generation and additional future indebtedness, which is uncommitted at this time. See Item 3, “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—Our substantial indebtedness could adversely affect our financial condition and business prospects” and Item 3, “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—The Project Facilities Agreement, our 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds, our 2017 Senior Secured Notes and the Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement imposes significant operating and financial restrictions on certain of our subsidiaries, which may prevent us from capitalizing on business opportunities and taking some actions.”

The construction programs for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship are supervised by our construction management team, including those that managed the construction of the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Santa Ana and the two drillships that were contributed to TPDI. The Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Santa Ana and the two TPDI vessels were delivered substantially on time and within budget.

There are risks of delay and cost overruns inherent in any major shipyard project, including those resulting from adverse weather conditions, work stoppages, disputes and financial and other difficulties encountered by the shipyard. In order to mitigate some of these risks, we have selected a high-quality shipyard with a reputation for on-time completions. In addition, each of our construction contracts is based on a fixed fee and backed by a refund guarantee if the unit is ultimately not finished or accepted by us upon completion. Deliveries by the shipyard beyond a certain point in time are subject to penalty payments to us and also give us a right of cancellation.

The indebtedness under our Project Facilities Agreement is collateralized by a first preferred mortgage over the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana. The indebtedness under our 2017 Senior Secured Notes will, upon delivery, be secured by a first-priority security interest (subject to exceptions) in the Pacific Khamsin. The indebtedness under our Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement will, upon delivery, be secured by a first-priority security interest (subject to exceptions) in the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem. See Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness.” Additionally, the utilization of our drillships may be impacted by a number of environmental and regulatory issues. See Item 4, “Business Overview—Environmental and Other Regulatory Issues.”

Properties

We maintain our principal executive office and our registered office in Luxembourg and our operational headquarters in Houston, Texas. We also provide technical, operational and administrative support from our offices in Singapore, Brazil and Nigeria.

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ITEM 4A.    UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

There are no written comments which have been provided by the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission regarding our periodic reports which remain unresolved as of the date of the filing of this Form 20-F with the SEC.

ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with Item 3, “Selected Financial Data” and the accompanying financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this annual report. In addition, please read the introduction to the financial statements in item 18, “Financial Statements” for important information relating to our presentation of financial information in this annual report and concerning the financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this annual report. The following discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our future plans, estimates, beliefs and expected performance. The forward-looking statements are dependent upon events, risks and uncertainties that may be outside our control. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these forward-looking statements. Please read “Forward-Looking Statements” and Item 3, “Risk Factors.” In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events discussed may not occur.

A. OPERATING RESULTS

Overview

We are an international offshore drilling contractor committed to becoming the preferred provider of ultra-deepwater drilling services to the oil and natural gas industry through the use of high-specification rigs. Our primary business is to contract our ultra-deepwater drilling rigs, related equipment and work crews, primarily on a dayrate basis, to drill wells for our customers.

Following completion of construction, our fully-deployed fleet will consist of eight newly constructed sixth and seventh generation ultra-deepwater drillships, representing one of the youngest and most technologically advanced fleets in the world. As of February 15, 2013, we currently operate four drillships and have four drillships under construction at SHI, two of which are under customer contract.

Factors Affecting Comparability of Historical Financial Results of Operations to Future Financial Results of Operations

We have a limited operating history. Because all of our drillships have been recently completed or are currently under construction, our historical results of operations primarily reflect the impact of establishing our fleet of new ultra-deepwater drillships, our past investment in TPDI and the costs we have incurred in establishing the infrastructure needed to support the future operation of our fleet. Our future results of operations may not be comparable to the historical results of operations for the periods presented, primarily for the reasons described below:

• Revenues earned and incremental costs incurred directly related to contract preparation and mobilization are deferred and recognized over the primary term of the drilling contract. As a result, we did not begin to recognize operating revenue or incur any material operating expenses until the Pacific Bora commenced drilling operations on August 26, 2011. With the commencement of the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana drilling operations, on December 31, 2011, February 6, 2012 and May 4, 2012, respectively, we have seen a substantial increase in our revenues, operating expenses and operating income during 2012 and expect these to continue to increase as a result of completing construction of the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem, and our eighth drillship and placing them into service.

• On March 30, 2011, we completed the TPDI Transfer in which we transferred our interest in TPDI to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group in connection with the Restructuring. As a result, our results of operations do not include the equity investment in TPDI after March 30, 2011.

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• We did not recognize interest expense in our statement of operations until all the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use are complete. We had and continue to expect a substantial increase in interest expenses in our results of operations as a result of completing construction of our vessels and placing them into service.

Factors Affecting our Results of Operations

The primary factors which have affected our historical operating results and are expected to impact our future operating results include:

• the number of drillships in our fleet;

• dayrates earned by our drillships;

• utilization rates of our drillships;

• operating expenses of our drillships;

• administrative expenses;

• interest and other financial items; and

• tax expenses.

Our revenues are derived primarily from the operation of our drillships at fixed daily rates, which depend principally upon the number and availability of our drillships, the dayrates received and the number of days utilized. We recognize revenues from drilling contracts as services are performed upon contract commencement.

Additionally, we may also receive revenues for preparation and mobilization of equipment and personnel or for capital improvements to rigs. Revenues earned and incremental costs incurred directly related to contract preparation and mobilization are deferred and recognized over the primary term of the drilling contract. Upon completion of drilling contracts, any demobilization fees received and related expenses are reported in income. Amortization of deferred revenue is recorded on a straight-line basis over the primary drilling contract term, which is consistent with the general pace of activity, level of services being provided and dayrates being earned over the life of the contract. Reimbursements received for capital expenditures are deferred and recognized over the primary contract term of the drilling project. The actual cost incurred for capital expenditure is depreciated over the estimated useful life of the asset.

Our expenses consist primarily of contract drilling expenses, depreciation, administrative expenses, interest and other financial expenses and tax expenses. Contract drilling expenses include the remuneration of offshore crews and onshore supervision staff, as well as expenses for onshore support offices, repairs and sustaining maintenance.

Depreciation expenses are based on the historical cost of our drillships and other property and equipment and recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of each class of assets. The estimated useful lives of our drillships and their related equipment ranges from 15 to 35 years. We begin recording depreciation expenses once all activities necessary to prepare the asset for its intended use are complete, which is typically upon the date of contract commencement for our recently delivered drillships.

General and administrative expenses include the indirect costs of management and administration of the company, such as the labor costs of our corporate employees and remuneration of our directors.

Interest expenses primarily depend on our overall level of indebtedness and interest rates. Interest is capitalized based on the costs of new borrowings attributable to qualifying new construction or at the weighted average cost of debt outstanding during the period of construction. We capitalize interest costs for qualifying new construction from the point borrowing costs are incurred for the qualifying new construction and cease when

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substantially all the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use are complete, which is typically the date of contract commencement. Once the contract has commenced, we recognize interest expense in the statement of operations.

Our tax expenses reflect current and deferred tax expenses. In general, our income tax expenses result primarily from the taxable net income on our drillship operations.

Developmental Activities

The following discussion provides an overview of the principal activities conducted during the periods indicated, which are material factors for changes in our financial position and results of operations.

Year ended December 31, 2010

During 2010, our principal activities consisted of the following:

• secured contracts with Chevron for the Pacific Santa Ana and the Pacific Bora;

• entered into the $1.8 billion Project Facilities Agreement;

• recruited and trained staff, including rig personnel, for the Pacific Bora; and

• accepted delivery of the Pacific Bora in October 2010.

Additionally, during 2010, construction activity continued on the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana for on-time delivery. After its delivery, the Pacific Bora underwent contract specific modifications prior to starting its mobilization to commence operations.

Year ended December 31, 2011

During 2011, our principal activities consisted of the following:

• entered into contracts with SHI in March 2011 for the construction of the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav;

• completed the Restructuring and the TPDI Transfer in March 2011;

• completed the 2011 Private Placement in which we sold 60,000,000 common shares to international and U.S. investors for net proceeds of approximately $575.5 million;

• accepted delivery in April 2011 of the Pacific Scirocco and following certain repairs and upgrades, entered service in Nigeria on December 31, 2011 under a one-year contract with Total;

• accepted delivery in June 2011 of the Pacific Mistral;

• entered into an agreement with SHI in June 2011 granting us an option to purchase a seventh drillship;

• hired crew for all four drillships at the senior staff level and oversaw client requested modifications and post delivery upgrades on all vessels;

• developed and refined operating procedures, management systems and work instructions, to facilitate safe, consistent activities on our drillships;

• placed the Pacific Bora into service in Nigeria on August 26, 2011 under a three-year contract with Chevron;

• completed an initial public offering of 6,900,000 shares and commenced trading on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “PACD” in November and December 2011 for net proceeds of approximately $50.3 million; and

• accepted delivery in December 2011 of the Pacific Santa Ana.

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Year ended December 31, 2012

During 2012, our principal activities consisted of the following:

• placed the Pacific Mistral into service in Brazil on February 6, 2012 under a three-year contract with Petrobras;

• completed a Norwegian private placement of $300 million in aggregate principal amount of 8.25% senior unsecured U.S. dollar denominated bonds due in 2015 to eligible purchasers in February 2012;

• entered into contract with SHI in March 2012 for the construction of the Pacific Meltem and an option to construct an additional drillship;

• replaced, the temporary SBLC facilities for the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco in April 2012 with a Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement resulting in the release of approximately $126 million of restricted cash collateral to cash and cash equivalents;

• secured on April 6, 2012 an exercise by Total for its option to extend the Pacific Scirocco contract period to two years;

• placed the Pacific Santa Ana into service in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico on May 4, 2012 under a five-year contract with Chevron;

• entered into a five-year contract with Chevron in June 2012 for operations in the United States Gulf of Mexico for the Pacific Sharav;

• entered into an International Master Agreement and two–year contract with Chevron in November 2012 for operations in several countries, including Nigeria, Liberia and certain countries in Asia for the Pacific Khamsin;

• completed a private placement of $500 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.25% senior secured U.S. dollar denominated notes due in 2017 to eligible purchasers in November 2012; and

• entered into the Second Amendment Agreement in respect of the Project Facilities Agreement in December 2012, which changed the frequency of amortization payments from every six months to every three months and resulted in the release of approximately $77.7 million in restricted cash.

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Results of Operations

Year ended December 31, 2012 compared to Year ended December 31, 2011

The following table provides an analysis of our consolidated results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012			2011			Change			% Change
	(In thousands, except percentages)
Revenues
Contract drilling	$	638,050		$	65,431		$	572,619			875	%
Costs and expenses
Contract drilling		(331,495	)		(32,142	)		(299,353	)		931	%
General and administrative expenses		(45,386	)		(52,614	)		7,228			(14	)%
Depreciation expense		(127,698	)		(11,619	)		(116,079	)		990	%
		(504,579	)		(96,375	)		(408,204	)		424	%
Loss of hire insurance recovery.		23,671			18,500			5,171			28	%
Operating income (loss)		157,142			(12,444	)		169,586			1,363	%
Other income (expense)
Equity in earnings of Joint Venture		—			18,955			(18,955	)		(100	)%
Interest income from Joint Venture		—			495			(495	)		(100	)%
Interest expense		(104,685	)		(10,384	)		(94,301	)		908	%
Other income		3,245			3,675			(430	)		(12	)%
Income (loss) before income taxes		55,702			297			55,405			(18,655	)%
Income tax expense		(21,713	)		(3,200	)		(18,513	)		579	%
Net income (loss)	$	33,989		$	(2,903	)	$	36,892			1,271	%

Revenues. Revenues were $638.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $65.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. Contract drilling revenue for the year ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 included $95.8 million and $8.6 million, respectively, in amortization of deferred revenue. The revenue for year ended December 31, 2011 only included drilling operations for the Pacific Bora, which commenced on August 26, 2011. The increase in revenues during the year ended December 31, 2012 reflects a full year of operations for the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco, which entered service on December 31, 2011. Additionally, the year ended December 31, 2012 saw an increase in revenues from the start of operations of the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana on February 6, 2012 and May 4, 2012, respectively.

During the year ended December 31, 2012, our operating fleet of four drillships achieved an average revenue efficiency of 88.0%. Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 were adversely impacted by downtime during the first and second quarters of 2012 primarily due to subsea equipment design issues experienced throughout the fleet. All of our BOPs have now been upgraded to fully address this design weakness. Additionally, revenue efficiency for the year ended December 31, 2012 was negatively impacted by the Pacific Santa Ana being on downtime in the third quarter to perform repairs to remove some roughness in the seal face of one of the BOP doors that could have prevented a consistent seal. The BOP repairs and inspections resulted in a total of 45 days of downtime before the Pacific Santa Ana restarted operations on August 15, 2012. For the period from May 4, 2012 through September 30, 2012, these and subsequent problems with the BOP on the Pacific Santa Ana resulted in average revenue efficiency of 57.6%. During the fourth quarter of 2012, the Pacific Santa Ana delivered average revenue efficiency of 87.3%.

The Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco achieved average revenue efficiency of 94.3% and 97.6% during the year ended December 31, 2012, respectively. For the period from February 6, 2012 through December 31, 2012, the Pacific Mistral realized an average revenue efficiency of 83.9%.

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Contract drilling costs. Contract drilling costs were $331.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $32.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The increase in contract drilling costs during the year ended December 31, 2012 compared to the year ended December 31, 2011 is due to a full year of operations for the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco and the start of operations of the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana on February 6, 2012 and May 4, 2012, respectively.

During the year ended December 31, 2012, direct rig related operating expenses were approximately $238.6 million and shore-based and other support costs were approximately $22.2 million. Additionally, contract drilling costs included $70.7 million in amortization of deferred mobilization costs.

During the year ended December 31, 2012, rig operating expenses were adversely affected primarily by equipment and maintenance costs for the fleet during rig startup.

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses were $45.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $52.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease in general and administrative expenses was primarily due to the accounting for field support and certain rig related expenses, such as crew training, during the year ended December 31, 2011. Prior to contract commencement, these costs were recognized as general and administrative expenses during the year ended December 31, 2011. Upon contract commencement, the related field support and rig related expenses have been recognized as contract drilling costs during the year ended December 31, 2012.

Depreciation expense. Depreciation expense was $127.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $11.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The increase in depreciation expense was primarily due to placing the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Scirocco and the Pacific Santa Ana into service, which resulted in the commencement of the depreciation of the drillships.

Loss of hire insurance recovery. Income from loss of hire insurance recovery was $23.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $18.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. As part of our hull and machinery policy, we maintain loss of hire insurance which carries a 45-day waiting period and an annual aggregate limit of 180 days. In the third quarter of 2011, the Pacific Scirocco underwent repairs and upgrades to ensure engine reliability, which was a covered event under our loss of hire policy and resulted in loss of hire recoveries of $18.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2011. During the year ended December 31, 2012, we received further proceeds under the policy in an amount of $23.7 million that resulted in total cumulative loss of hire insurance recoveries of $42.2 million.

Equity in earnings of Joint Venture. Equity in earnings of the Joint Venture was $0 for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $19.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease in equity in earnings of TPDI was due to the TPDI Transfer on March 30, 2011. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries currently owns any interest in TPDI and, following the transfer, the results of operations of TPDI are no longer included in our financial results.

Interest income from TPDI. Interest income from TPDI was $0 for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $0.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease in interest income from TPDI was due to the TPDI Transfer on March 30, 2011, which included assignment of notes receivable from TPDI. As such, no interest income from TPDI was recorded in our financial results beginning in the second quarter of 2011.

Interest expense. Interest expense was approximately $104.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $10.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The increase in interest expense was primarily due to interest expense on borrowings under our Project Facilities Agreement after the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Scirocco and the Pacific Santa Ana were placed into service.

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Other income (expense). Other income was approximately $3.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $3.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease in other income during the year ended December 31, 2012 was primarily due to a decrease in management income. Other income included management income from day-to-day oversight and management services with respect to the Quantum Pacific Group’s equity interest in TPDI for a fee of $4,000 per drillship per day, or $8,000 per day. During the year ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, management fee income of $1.2 million and $2.2 million, respectively, was recorded in other income. As a result of Quantum Pacific Group’s divestiture of their equity position in TPDI, the management agreement was terminated on May 31, 2012.

Income taxes. Income tax expense was approximately $21.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, compared to $3.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The increase in income tax expense was primarily due to a full year of operations for the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco in Nigeria, as well as the commencement of operations of the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana in Brazil and the United States, respectively in 2012. In 2011, our only operations consisted of a partial year of operations by the Pacific Bora in Nigeria.

The relationship between our provision for or benefit from income taxes and our pre-tax book income can vary significantly from period to period considering, among other factors, (a) the overall level of pre-tax book income, (b) changes in the blend of income that is taxed based on gross revenues versus pre-tax book income, and (c) our rig operating structures. Consequently, our income tax expense does not change proportionally with our pre-tax book income. Significant decreases in our pre-tax book income typically result in higher effective tax rates, while significant increases in pre-tax book income can lead to lower effective tax rates, subject to the other factors impacting income tax expense noted above. Our effective tax rate was 39.0% for the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to 1077.4% for the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease in 2012 is the result of a significant increase in pre-tax book income without a proportional increase in income tax expense. With respect to our effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2012, a significant amount of our income tax expense was generated in Nigeria where income taxes are imposed on deemed profits, which effectively are a proportion of gross revenues, rather than actual profits. Conversely, our operations in the United States and Brazil, which impose tax on a net profits basis, yielded losses for which a relatively insignificant tax benefit is reflected in our tax provision as a result of our operating structures in those jurisdictions. For the year ended December 31, 2011, our only operations were in Nigeria where, as discussed above, we are taxed on a deemed profits basis. Consequently, our 2011 income tax expense had no relationship to pre-tax book income.

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Year ended December 31, 2011 compared to Year ended December 31, 2010

The following table provides an analysis of our consolidated results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010:

	Years ended December 31,
	2011			2010			Change			% Change
	(In thousands, except percentages)
Revenues
Contract drilling	$	65,431		$	—		$	65,431			100	%
Costs and expenses
Contract drilling		(32,142	)		—			(32,142	)		100	%
General and administrative expenses		(52,614	)		(19,715	)		(32,899	)		167	%
Depreciation expense		(11,619	)		(395	)		(11,224	)		2,842	%
		(96,375	)		(20,110	)		(76,265	)		379	%
Loss of hire insurance recovery		18,500			—			18,500			100	%
Operating loss		(12,444	)		(20,110	)		7,666			(38	)%
Other income (expense)
Equity in earnings of Joint Venture		18,955			56,307			(37,352	)		(66	)%
Interest income from Joint Venture		495			1,973			(1,478	)		(75	)%
Interest expense		(10,384	)		(858	)		(9,526	)		1110	%
Other income (expense)		3,675			(62	)		3,737			6,027	%
Income before income taxes		297			37,250			(36,953	)		(99	)%
Income tax (expense) benefit		(3,200	)		49			(3,249	)		(6,631	)%
Net (loss) income	$	(2,903	)	$	37,299		$	(40,202	)		(108	)%

Revenues. Revenues were $65.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to $0 for the year ended December 31, 2010. The increase in revenues resulted from the Pacific Bora commencing drilling operations in Nigeria on August 26, 2011 under a three-year contract with a subsidiary of Chevron. Following contract commencement, the Pacific Bora has achieved revenue efficiency of 93.2% through December 31, 2011. Revenue efficiency is defined as actual contractual dayrate revenue (excludes mobilization fees, upgrade reimbursements and other revenue sources) divided by the maximum amount of total contractual dayrate revenue that could have been earned during such period. Contract drilling revenue included $8.6 million in amortization of deferred revenue.

Contract drilling costs. Contract drilling costs were $32.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to $0 for the year ended December 31, 2010. Direct rig operating expenses accounted for $22.4 million of the total and shore-based and other support costs were $3.9 million. Rig operating expenses for the Pacific Bora were adversely affected by the start-up costs and inefficiencies inherent to the first few months of operations for a new drillship. In addition, during the four months of operations, the Pacific Bora alone supported all of the operating support costs intended for a larger operating fleet. Contract drilling costs also included $4.3 million in amortization of deferred mobilization costs for the Pacific Bora and the $1.5 million property damage insurance deductible incurred related to the costs of the Pacific Scirocco engine work.

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses were $52.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to $19.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The increase in general and administrative expenses was primarily due to establishing the infrastructure needed to support the current and future operations of our fleet as described in more detail in Item 5, “Developmental Activities.” Additionally, the Company incurred $13.5 million and $1.4 million of field support and certain rig related expenses, such as crew training, during the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. Prior to contract commencement, these field support and certain rig related expenses are recognized as general and

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administrative expenses. Upon contract commencement, additional field support and rig related expenses are recognized as contract drilling operating costs as incurred. The Company also incurred $4.4 million in general and administrative expenses, such as legal fees, related to borrowings under the Project Facilities Agreement. During the year ended December 31, 2011, general and administrative expenses also included $2.1 million in charges related to our transition to becoming a public company.

Depreciation expense. Depreciation expense was $11.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to $0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The increase in depreciation expenses was primarily due to placing the Pacific Bora into service, which resulted in the commencement of the depreciation of the drillship. We did not record depreciation expense related to our drillships for the year ended December 31, 2010 because our drillships had not yet been placed into service.

Loss of hire insurance recovery. Income from loss of hire insurance recovery was $18.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to $0 for the year ended December 31, 2010. We maintain loss of hire insurance that becomes effective 45 days after an accident or major equipment failure covered by hull and machinery insurance, resulting in a downtime event and extends for 180 days. In the third quarter 2011, the Pacific Scirocco underwent repairs and upgrades to ensure engine reliability, which was a covered event under our loss of hire policy that resulted in the loss of hire insurance recovery received and recognized.

Equity in earnings of Joint Venture. Equity in earnings of Joint Venture was $19.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to $56.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The decrease in equity in earnings of TPDI was due to the TPDI Transfer on March 30, 2011. Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries currently owns any interest in TPDI and, following the transfer, the results of operations of TPDI are no longer included in our financial results.

Interest income from TPDI. Interest income from TPDI was $0.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to $2.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The decrease in interest income from TPDI was due to the TPDI Transfer on March 30, 2011, which included assignment of notes receivable from TPDI. As such, no interest income from TPDI was recorded in our financial results beginning in the second quarter of 2011.

Interest expense. Interest expense was approximately $10.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to $0.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The increase in interest expense was primarily due to interest expensed on the Bora Term Loan after the Pacific Bora was placed into service. Excluding interest expensed on the Bora Term Loan in 2011, we did not recognize any interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 for other borrowings under our Project Facilities Agreement and related-party loans in our statement of operations, because we capitalize interest costs incurred on new borrowings attributable to qualifying new construction until all the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use are complete. The interest expense incurred during the year ended December 31, 2010 results from a letter of credit fee agreement with Transocean related to TPDI’s compliance with the terms under its bank credit facility.

Other income (expense). Other income (expense) was approximately $3.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to $(0.1) million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The increase in other income was primarily due to income from TPDI management fees of approximately $2.2 million. In connection with the TPDI Transfer, we entered into a management agreement pursuant to which we provide day-to-day oversight and management services with respect to the Quantum Pacific Group’s equity interest in TPDI for a fee of $4,000 per drillship per day, or $8,000 per day.

Income taxes. Income tax expense was approximately $3.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, compared to an income tax benefit of $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. The increase in income tax expense was primarily due to the commencement of Pacific Bora drilling operations in Nigeria, where the Company is subject to income tax payable on deemed profits based on a fixed percentage of revenue.

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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND POLICIES

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions impact the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the balance sheet date and the amounts of revenues and expenses recognized during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions, including those related to allowance for doubtful accounts, financial instruments, depreciation of property and equipment, impairment of long-lived assets, income taxes, share-based compensation and contingencies. We base our estimates and assumptions on historical experience and on various other factors we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from such estimates.

Our critical accounting estimates are important to the portrayal of both our financial condition and results of operations and require us to make difficult, subjective or complex assumptions or estimates about matters that are uncertain. We would report different amounts in our consolidated financial statements, which could be material, if we used different assumptions or estimates. We have discussed the development and selection of our critical accounting estimates with our Board of Directors and the Board of Directors has reviewed the disclosure presented below. During the past three fiscal years, we have not made any material changes in accounting methodology.

We believe that the following is a summary of the critical accounting polices used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.

Revenues and operating expenses. Contract drilling revenues are recognized as earned, based on contractual dayrates. In connection with drilling contracts, we may receive revenues for preparation and mobilization of equipment and personnel or for capital improvements to rigs. Revenues earned and incremental costs incurred directly related to contract preparation and mobilization along with reimbursements received for capital expenditures are deferred and recognized over the primary term of the drilling contract. The actual cost incurred for reimbursed capital expenditures are depreciated over the estimated useful life of the asset. Amortization of deferred revenue and deferred mobilization costs are recorded on a straight-line basis over the primary drilling contract term, which is consistent with the general pace of activity, level of services being provided and dayrates being earned over the life of the contract. Upon completion of drilling contracts, any demobilization fees received and related expenses are reported in income.

Property and equipment. Deepwater drillships are recorded at cost of construction, including any major capital improvements, less accumulated depreciation and impairment. Other property and equipment are recorded at cost and consist of purchased software systems, furniture, fixtures and other equipment. Planned major maintenance, ongoing maintenance, routine repairs and minor replacements are expensed as incurred.

Interest is capitalized based on the costs of new borrowings attributable to qualifying new construction or at the weighted average cost of debt outstanding during the period of construction. We capitalize interest costs for qualifying new construction from the point borrowing costs are incurred for the qualifying new construction and cease when substantially all the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use are complete.

Property and equipment are depreciated to their salvage value on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of each class of assets. Our estimated useful lives of property and equipment are as follows:

	Years
Drillships and related equipment	15-35
Other property and equipment	2-7

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Long-lived assets. We review our long-lived assets, including property and equipment, for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of our assets held and used may not be recoverable. Potential impairment indicators include rapid declines in commodity prices and related market conditions, actual or expected declines in rig utilization, increases in idle time, cancellations of contracts or credit concerns of customers. We assess impairment using estimated undiscounted cash flows for the long-lived assets being evaluated by applying assumptions regarding future operations, market conditions, dayrates, utilization and idle time. An impairment loss is recorded in the period if the carrying amount of the asset is not recoverable.

Contingencies. We record liabilities for estimated loss contingencies when we believe a loss is probable and the amount of the probable loss can be reasonably estimated. Once established, we adjust the estimated contingency loss accrual for changes in facts and circumstances that alter our previous assumptions with respect to the likelihood or amount of loss.

We recognize loss of hire insurance recovery once realized or contingencies related to the realizability of the amount earned are resolved.

Income taxes. Income taxes are provided based upon the tax laws and rates in the countries in which our subsidiaries are registered and where their operations are conducted and income and expenses are earned and incurred, respectively. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the anticipated future tax effects of temporary differences between the financial statement basis and the tax basis of our assets and liabilities using the applicable enacted tax rates in effect the year in which the asset is realized or the liability is settled. A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is established when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

We recognize tax benefits from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. The amount recognized is the largest benefit that we believe has greater than a 50% likelihood of being realized upon settlement. Actual income taxes paid may vary from estimates depending upon changes in income tax laws, actual results of operations and the final audit of tax returns by taxing authorities. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Please refer to Note 2 to the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements in this annual report for a discussion of recent accounting pronouncements and their anticipated impact.

B. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

We operate in a capital intensive industry. Through February 15, 2013, our principal sources of liquidity have been provided through a combination of borrowings from Quantum Pacific Group and its affiliates, capital contributions from Quantum Pacific Group and its affiliates, proceeds from the 2011 Private Placement, proceeds from the initial public offering of our common shares including the underwriters’ full exercise of their over-allotment option, borrowings under our Project Facilities Agreement and proceeds from the sale of the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds and the 2017 Senior Secured Notes, each as described in “—Description of Indebtedness” below. In the future, we expect that our investment in newbuild ultra-deepwater drillships will be financed through additional debt financing, equity issuances and cash flow from operations. Our liquidity requirements relate to funding investments in newbuild ultra-deepwater drillships, servicing debt, ongoing working capital requirements and maintaining adequate cash reserves to mitigate the effects of fluctuations in operating cash flows. Most of our contract drilling revenues will be received monthly in arrears and most of our operating costs will be paid on a monthly basis.

We centrally manage our funding and treasury activities in accordance with corporate policies to ensure appropriate levels of liquidity, comply with debt covenants, maintain adequate levels of insurance and balance

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exposures to market risks. Cash and cash equivalents are held mainly in United States Dollars, Nigerian Naira, Brazilian Real and Singapore Dollars.

As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we had $605.9 million and $107.3 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents. Additionally, as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we had $172.2 million and $377.0 million, respectively, of restricted cash that primarily consisted of restricted cash accounts held with financial institutions as security for the borrowings under the Project Facilities Agreement and Temporary Import Bond Facilities (as described in “—Description of Indebtedness” below).

Our liquidity requirements include funding ongoing working capital needs, repaying our outstanding indebtedness and anticipated capital expenditures, which largely comprise our progress payments for our ultra-deepwater drillship construction projects, and maintaining adequate cash reserves to compensate the effects of fluctuations in operating cash flows. Our ability to meet these liquidity requirements will depend in large part on our future operating and financial performance. Primary sources of funds for our short-term liquidity needs will be cash flow generated from operating and financing activities and available cash balances. Our liquidity fluctuates depending on a number of factors, including, among others, our revenue efficiency and the timing of collecting accounts receivable as well as amounts paid for operating costs. We believe that our cash on hand and cash flows generated from operating and financing activities will provide sufficient liquidity over the next twelve months to fund our working capital needs, amortization payments on our long-term debt and anticipated capital expenditures for the Company’s ultra-deepwater drillship construction projects. Our ability to meet our long-term liquidity requirements will depend in part on our ability to secure additional financing in order to fund construction of our eighth drillship, which is uncommitted at this time. See Item 3, “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business.”

We currently have an option with SHI to purchase a ninth drillship, which expires on April 30, 2013. At this point, we have not decided whether we will exercise our option. If we were to exercise the option or otherwise order a ninth drillship, we would incur additional payment obligations for which we have not yet arranged financing.

As the parent company of our operating subsidiaries, we are not a party to any drilling contracts directly and are therefore dependent on receiving cash distributions from our subsidiaries. Surplus cash held in our subsidiaries owning the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana, which act as borrowers under the Project Facilities Agreement, is restricted until January 1, 2014 by the Project Facilities Agreement from transfer by intercompany loans and/or dividend payments to us. After January 1, 2014, transfers from these subsidiaries to us are permitted assuming we are in compliance with the provisions of the Project Facilities Agreement. Under the terms of the 2017 Senior Secured Notes and our Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement, subject to certain exceptions, we are limited in our ability to pay dividends, purchase or redeem our capital stock or make other restricted payments. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, our borrowing subsidiaries held $1.7 billion and $1.5 billion of restricted net assets, respectively. We do not believe these restrictions will prevent us and other non-borrowing subsidiaries from meeting our respective liquidity needs.

We may review from time to time possible expansion and acquisition opportunities relating to our business, which may include the construction or acquisition of additional rigs or acquisitions of other businesses. Any decision to construct or acquire additional rigs for our fleet will be based on our assessment of market conditions and opportunities existing at such time, including the availability of long-term contracts with attractive dayrates and the relative costs of building or acquiring new rigs with advanced capabilities compared with the costs of retrofitting or converting existing rigs to provide similar capabilities. The timing, size or success of any additional acquisition or construction efforts and the associated potential capital commitments are unpredictable. We may seek to fund all or part of any such efforts with proceeds from debt and/or equity issuances. Debt or equity financing may not, however, be available to us at that time due to a variety of factors, including, among others, general industry conditions, general macro-economic conditions, perceptions of us and credit rating agency opinions of our outstanding debt.

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Capital Expenditures and Working Capital Funding

In March 2011, we entered into two contracts with SHI for the construction of our fifth and sixth advanced-capability, ultra-deepwater drillships, the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav. In March 2012, we entered into a contract with SHI for the construction of the Pacific Meltem. In January 2013, we exercised our option and entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of our eighth drillship on the same terms and conditions as those for the Pacific Meltem. The construction contract for our eighth drillship also includes an option for a ninth newbuild drillship on the same terms and conditions as those for our eighth drillship. The option is valid until April 30, 2013.

The SHI contracts for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship provide for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $2.0 billion for the acquisition of these four vessels, payable in installments during the construction process, of which we have made payments of $449.9 million through February 15, 2013. We anticipate making payments of approximately $875 million in 2013, approximately $433 million in 2014 and approximately $336 million in 2015. We expect the project cost for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav, the Pacific Meltem and our eighth drillship under construction to be approximately $608.3 million, $662.9 million, $627.8 million and $634.1 million. The estimate of the project costs includes commissioning and testing and other costs for the drillships, but excludes capitalized interest. As of December 31, 2012, there are approximately $1.5 billion remaining project costs for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem of which approximately $1.1 billion is remaining contractual commitments to SHI. The remaining project costs of $390 million for the Pacific Khamsin will be financed with existing cash balances primarily from proceeds under the 2017 Senior Secured Notes. We intend to finance the approximately $1.1 billion remaining project costs for the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem with our Senior Secured Credit Facility and existing cash balances. Additionally, we intend to finance the $634.1 million in project costs for our eighth drillship with our existing cash balances, operating cash flow generation and additional future indebtedness, which is uncommitted at this time.

Sources and Uses of Cash

Year ended December 31, 2012 compared to Year ended December 31, 2011

The following table provides an analysis of our net cash used in operating activities for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012			2011			Change
	(in thousands)
Cash flow from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$	33,989		$	(2,903	)	$	36,892
Interest income from Joint Venture.		—			(495	)		495
Depreciation expense		127,698			11,619			116,079
Equity in earnings of Joint Venture		—			(18,955	)		18,955
Amortization of deferred revenue.		(95,750	)		(8,566	)		(87,184	)
Amortization of deferred mobilization costs.		70,660			4,288			66,372
Amortization of deferred financing costs		13,926			1,067			12,859
Deferred income taxes.		(3,766	)		(3,169	)		(597	)
Share-based compensation expense		5,318			4,471			847
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net.		32,923			(51,688	)		84,611
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities.	$	184,998		$	(64,331	)	$	249,329

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The increase in net cash provided by operating activities primarily resulted from the continued ramp up of drillship operations as the year ended December 31, 2012 reflects a full year of operations for the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco, which entered service on December 31, 2011. Additionally, the year ended December 31, 2012 saw an increase in net cash provided by operating activities from the start of operations of the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana on February 6, 2012 and May 4, 2012, respectively.

The following table provides an analysis of our net cash used in investing activities for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012			2011			Change
	(in thousands)
Cash flow from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	$	(449,951	)	$	(1,539,630	)	$	1,089,679
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash		204,784			(315,286	)		520,070
Net cash used in investing activities	$	(245,167	)	$	(1,854,916	)	$	1,609,749

The decrease in cash used in investing activities primarily resulted from lower amounts of progress payments for our drillships under construction and less spent in capital equipment upgrades during the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease in restricted cash during the year ended December 31, 2012 resulted from the temporary SBLC facilities for the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco each being replaced by a Letters of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement on April 19, 2012. As a result of securing these facilities, the Company was able to release approximately $126 million of restricted cash collateral to cash and cash equivalents. Additionally, the decrease in restricted cash resulted from the Second Amendment Agreement in respect of the Project Facilities Agreement in December 2012, which changed the frequency of amortization payments from every six months to every three months and resulted in the release of approximately $77.7 million in restricted cash. The increase in restricted cash during the year ended December 31, 2011 resulted from the funding of restricted cash collateral accounts required under the Project Facilities Agreement and Temporary Import Bond Facilities.

The following table provides an analysis of our net cash provided by financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012			2011			Change
	(in thousands)
Cash flow from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common shares, net	$	—		$	625,816		$	(625,816	)
Proceeds from long-term debt		797,415			1,275,000			(477,585	)
Payments on long-term debt		(218,750	)		(50,000	)		(168,750	)
Deferred financing costs		(19,853	)		(6,803	)		(13,050	)
Proceeds from related-party loan		—			142,205			(142,205	)
Net cash provided by financing activities	$	558,812		$	1,986,218		$	(1,427,406	)

The decrease in cash provided by financing activities primarily results from no proceeds from issuance of common shares during the year ended December 31, 2012 compared to net proceeds of approximately $575.5 million from the issuance of 60,000,000 common shares in a private offering to international and U.S. investors in April 2011 and approximately $50.3 million from the issuance of 6,900,000 in connection with our initial public offering in November 2011. Additionally, cash provided by financing activities decreased by

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approximately $477.6 million due to lower proceeds from long-term debt. During the year ended December 31, 2012, borrowings consisted of $300 million under the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds and $500 million under the 2017 Senior Secured Notes. Proceeds from long-term debt for the year ended December 31, 2011 resulted from borrowings under the Mistral Term Loan, Scirocco Term Loan and Santa Ana Term Loan. Payments on long-term debt increased due to increased amortization payments under the terms of the Project Facility Agreement. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we also borrowed $142.2 million under a related-party loan agreement. On March 23, 2011, all outstanding related–party loan principal and accrued interest, in the amount of $142.8 million, was converted into equity of our Predecessor.

Year ended December 31, 2011 compared to Year ended December 31, 2010

The following table provides an analysis of our net cash used in operating activities for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010:

	Years ended December 31,
	2011			2010			Change
Cash flow from operating activities:
Net (loss) income	$	(2,903	)	$	37,299		$	(40,202	)
Interest income from Joint Venture		(495	)		(1,973	)		1,478
Depreciation expense		11,619			395			11,224
Equity in earnings of Joint Venture		(18,955	)		(56,307	)		37,352
Amortization of deferred revenue		(8,566	)		—			(8,566	)
Amortization of deferred mobilization costs		4,288			—			4,288
Amortization of deferred financing costs		1,067			—			1,067
Deferred income taxes		(3,169	)		(371	)		(2,798	)
Share-based compensation expense		4,471			65			4,406
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net		(51,688	)		(9,247	)		(42,441	)
Net cash used in operating activities	$	(64,331	)	$	(30,139	)	$	(34,192	)

The increase in cash used in operating activities primarily results from increases in general and administrative expenses, payments for materials and supplies and mobilization expenses that were partially offset from collection of accounts receivables and proceeds from our loss of hire insurance recovery.

The following table provides an analysis of our net cash used in investing activities for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010:

	Years ended December 31,
	2011			2010			Change
Cash flow from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	$	(1,539,630	)	$	(883,853	)	$	(655,777	)
Increase in restricted cash		(315,286	)		(60,967	)		(254,319	)
Net cash used in investing activities	$	(1,854,916	)	$	(944,820	)	$	(910,096	)

The increase in cash used in investing activities primarily results from progress and final delivery payments for our drillships and restricted cash deposits required under the Project Facilities Agreement and the Bora and Scirocco SBLC facilities.

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The following table provides an analysis of our net cash provided by financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010:

	Years ended December 31,
	2011			2010			Change
Cash flow from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common shares, net	$	625,816		$	—		$	625,816
Proceeds from long-term debt		1,275,000			450,000			825,000
Payments on long-term debt		(50,000	)		—			(50,000	)
Deferred financing costs		(6,803	)		(57,995	)		51,192
Proceeds from related-party loan		142,205			685,280			(543,075	)
Payments on related-party loan		—			(69,444	)		69,444
Net cash provided by financing activities	$	1,986,218		$	1,007,841		$	978,377

The increase in cash provided by financing activities primarily resulted from the net proceeds of approximately $575.5 million from our 2011 Private Placement, higher proceeds from borrowings of $825.0 million under the Project Facilities Agreement and net proceeds of approximately $50.3 million from our initial public offering. These increases in cash provided by financing activities were partially offset by decreases in related-party loan borrowings of $543.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 compared to the year ended December 31, 2010, payments of $50.0 million on the Bora Term Loan and $51.2 million less in financing costs related to proceeds from the Project Facilities Agreement.

Description of Indebtedness

Project Facilities Agreement. The Project Facilities Agreement includes a Bora Term Loan, a Mistral Term Loan, a Scirocco Term Loan and a Santa Ana Term Loan. See Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.

8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds due 2015. In February 2012, we completed a private placement of $300 million in aggregate principal amount of 8.25% senior unsecured U.S. dollar denominated bonds due 2015 to eligible purchasers. The 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds bear interest at 8.25% per annum, payable semiannually on February 23 and August 23 and mature on February 23, 2015. See Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.

7.25% Senior Secured Notes due 2017. In November 2012, Pacific Drilling V Limited (the “Issuer”), an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Pacific Drilling S.A., completed a private placement of $500 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.25% senior secured U.S. dollar denominated notes due 2017 to eligible purchasers. The notes were sold at 99.483% of par. The 2017 Senior Secured Notes bear interest at 7.25% per annum, payable semiannually on June 1 and December 1, commencing on June 1, 2013, and mature on December 1, 2017. See Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.

Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement. On February 19, 2013, Pacific Sharav S.à r.l. and Pacific Drilling VII Limited (collectively, the “Borrowers”), and Pacific Drilling S.A. (the “Guarantor”) (collectively, the “Borrowing Group”) entered into a senior secured credit facility agreement with a group of lenders to finance the construction, operation and other costs associated with the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem (the “Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement” or “SSCF”).

The SSCF includes a term loan (the “SSCF Term Loan”) which consists of two tranches: (i) a tranche of $500.0 million provided by a syndicate of nine commercial banks (the “Commercial Tranche”) and (ii) a tranche of $500.0 million provided by Eksportkreditt Norge AS (and guaranteed by the Norwegian Guarantee Institute

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for Export Credits) (the “GIEK Tranche”). The SSCF Term Loan will become available upon the satisfaction of customary conditions precedent, as described therein.

Borrowings under the Commercial Tranche bear interest at the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus a margin of 3.5%. Borrowings under the GIEK Tranche bear interest, at the Borrower’s option, at (i) LIBOR plus a margin of 1.50% (which margin may be reset 60 months after the first borrowing under the SSCF Term Loan) or (ii) at a Commercial Interest Reference Rate (“CIRR”) of (a) 3.96% for borrowings relating to the Pacific Sharav and (b) 2.37% for borrowings relating to the Pacific Meltem. Borrowings under the GIEK Tranche will also be subject to a guarantee fee of 2.00% per annum (the “GIEK Premium”). Undrawn commitments for the SSCF Term Loan shall bear a fee equal to (i) in the case of the Commercial Tranche, 40% of the margin for such tranche and (ii) in the case of the GIEK Tranche, 40% of the applicable margin for such tranche and 40% of the GIEK Premium.

The Commercial Tranche matures on the earlier of (i) five years following the delivery of the second vessel under the SSCF and (ii) May 31, 2019. The GIEK Tranche matures (for each vessel) twelve years following the delivery of the applicable vessel. The GIEK Tranche contains a put option exercisable if the Commercial Tranche is not refinanced on terms acceptable to GIEK. If the GIEK Tranche put option is exercised, each Borrower must prepay, in full, the portion of all outstanding loans that relate to the GIEK Tranche, on the maturity date of the Commercial Tranche, without any premium, penalty or fees of any kind. Amortization payments under the SSCF Term Loan are calculated on a 12 year repayment schedule and must be made every six months following the delivery of the relevant vessel.

Borrowings under the SSCF Term Loan may be prepaid in whole or in part at any time, without any premium or penalty other than LIBOR or CIRR breakage payments, as applicable.

The indebtedness under the SSCF is guaranteed by the Guarantor. The obligations of the Borrowers under the SSCF Term Loan are joint and several. The SSCF will be secured by several collateral components, which are usual and customary for such financing. The security provided to the lenders will be cross-collateralized across all borrowings under the SSCF and will comprise assignments of refund guarantees, shipbuilding contracts and insurances, a first preferred mortgage over each of the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem and other types of collateral.

The SSCF requires compliance with certain affirmative and negative covenants that are customary for such financings. These include, but are not limited to, restrictions on (i) the ability of the Guarantor to pay dividends to its shareholders or transact with affiliates (except for certain specified exceptions) and (ii) the ability of the Borrowers to incur additional indebtedness or liens, sell assets, make investments or transact with affiliates (except for certain specified exceptions).

The SSCF also requires (i) maintenance by the Guarantor of a $1.0 billion consolidated tangible net worth, (ii) maintenance by the Guarantor of a net debt to EBITDA (as defined in the SSCF) ratio of 5.5x beginning on December 31, 2013 and stepping down incrementally until 4x on December 31, 2015, (iii) maintenance by the Guarantor of a projected debt service coverage ratio for the next twelve months of at least 1.125x beginning on December 31, 2013 and stepping up to 1.25x on March 31, 2014 and 1.5x on March 31, 2015, (iv) maintenance by the Guarantor of a total debt to total capitalization ratio of 3.0 to 5.0, (v) maintenance by the Guarantor of total debt of less than $3.0 billion through September 30, 2013, (vi) maintenance by the Guarantor and its subsidiaries of minimum liquidity of $50 million and (vii) maintain a required level of collateral maintenance whereby the aggregate appraised collateral value must not be less than a certain percentage of the total outstanding balances under the SSCF. Net debt (as defined in the SSCF) excludes (i) temporary importation bond indebtedness and (ii) prior to December 31, 2014, SSCF indebtedness.

The SSCF contains events of default that are usual and customary for a financing of this type, size and purpose. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, borrowings under the SSCF are subject to acceleration.

Temporary Import Bond Facilities. As part of the standard Nigerian importation requirements for equipment, we are required to either import the vessel into Nigeria on a permanent basis and pay import duties or

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apply for a TI permit and put up a bond for the value of the import duties instead. We have entered into Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreements that provide credit support for the TI Bonds issued in favor of the Government of Nigeria Customs Service for the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco. See Note 5 to the consolidated financial statements.

As of December 31, 2012, we were in compliance with all covenants related to our Project Facilities Agreement, 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds, 2017 Senior Secured Notes and our Temporary Import Bond Facilities.

Related-party loans. Beginning in 2007, we received funding from Winter Finance, a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group, in the form of a related-party loan. We do not expect related-party loans to be a source of funding our operations and working capital needs going forward. For more information on related-party loans, see Item 7, “Related Party Transactions.”

Letters of Credit

As of December 31, 2012, we were contingently liable under certain performance, bid and custom bonds and letters of credit totaling $204.9 million primarily related to our Temporary Import Bond Facilities.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

We may enter into derivative instruments from time to time to manage our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates and to meet our debt covenant requirements. We do not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes; however, for accounting purposes, certain transactions may not meet the criteria for hedge accounting.

During 2011, we entered into four interest rate swaps to reduce the variability of future cash flows in the interest payments for the variable-rate debt under the Project Facilities Agreement. We designated the interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes. The interest rate swaps pay a fixed rate of interest and receive LIBOR. The fixed interest rate swap rates are 1.83%, 1.87%, 1.6% and 2.39% for the Bora Term Loan, Scirocco Term Loan, Mistral Term Loan and Santa Ana Term Loan, respectively. As of December 31, 2012, the notional amounts of the Bora, Scirocco, Mistral and Santa Ana interest rate swaps were $350.0 million, $316.7 million, $331.3 million and $387.5 million, respectively. The notional amounts of the interest rate swaps amortize quarterly and will expire on October 31, 2015.

On December 28, 2012, management de-designated a portion of the Bora, Scirocco, Mistral and Santa Ana interest rate swaps from hedge accounting due to the change in payment frequency of principal payments resulting from the Second Amendment Agreement to the Project Facilities Agreement. Subsequent to de-designation, we account for the de-designated portion of the interest rate swaps on a mark-to-market basis, with both realized and unrealized gains and losses on the de-designated portion recorded currently in earnings in interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. As a result of the de-designation, $2.8 million of accumulated other comprehensive income associated with the de-designated portion of the interest rate swap was reclassified into interest expense.

C. RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENSES, ETC.

We do not undertake any significant expenditure on research and development. Additionally, we have no significant interests in patents or licenses.

D. TREND INFORMATION

Historically, operating results in the offshore contract drilling industry have been cyclical and directly related to the demand for and the available supply of drilling rigs. However, since factors that impact offshore

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exploration and development spending are beyond our control, and rig demand dynamics can shift quickly, it is difficult for us to predict future industry conditions, demand trends or operating results.

Drilling Rig Supply

During the year ended December 31, 2012, offshore drilling contractors placed 36 shipyard orders to build additional ultra-deepwater semi-submersibles and drillships. We estimate there are approximately 55 ultra-deepwater rigs scheduled for delivery from January 1, 2013 until the end of 2015, 29 of which have not yet been announced as contracted to customers. Due to the long lead times involved in rig construction, rigs to be delivered in 2013 and 2014 would need to have been ordered already and therefore supply of ultra-deepwater units through the end of 2014 can be calculated at 154 with some certainty at this time. Our estimate of 12 additions to the fleet in 2015 is more speculative and beyond this time frame, the supply is uncertain and any projections have diminished predictive value.

Drilling Rig Demand

Demand for our drillships is a function of the worldwide levels of deepwater exploration and development spending by oil and gas companies, which is influenced by a number of factors. Deepwater and ultra-deepwater projects are generally more capital intensive and longer lasting than shallow water programs, which makes these projects less sensitive to short-term oil price fluctuations than shallow water projects. Therefore, deepwater and ultra-deepwater rig dayrates and utilization are also typically less sensitive to short-term oil price variances than shallow water rig rates. Long-term expectations about future oil and natural gas prices, on the other hand, have historically been a key driver for deepwater and ultra-deepwater exploration and development spending. Our customers’ drilling programs have also been affected by the global economic and political climate, access to quality drilling prospects, exploration success, perceived future availability and lead time requirements for drilling equipment, emphasis on deepwater exploration and production versus other areas and advances in drilling technology.

The year ended December 31, 2012 saw oil and global non-U.S. natural gas prices, as well as future price expectations, exhibit considerable volatility while continuing above the levels needed for sufficient return on investment for our clients. While questions remain regarding global economic stability, GDP growth continued to be positive in key emerging markets and North America. Both tendering activity and deepwater exploratory success continued, most notably in Angola, and there were no material adverse changes to access or regulations worldwide.

Supply and Demand Balance

These factors resulted in a tight supply-demand balance for ultra-deepwater rigs throughout 2012, with rising dayrates and near 100% utilization. While we believe that these trends will continue to benefit us and that the demand for ultra-deepwater rigs will continue to meet or exceed supply, our markets may be adversely affected by industry conditions that are beyond our control. For more information on this and other risks to our business and our industry See Item 3, “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business.”

E. OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

Currently, we do not have any off-balance sheet arrangements.

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F. CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The table below sets forth our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2012:

Contractual Obligations	2013		2014-2015		2016-2017		Thereafter		Total
	(in thousands)
Long-term debt(a)	$	218,750	$	1,537,500	$	500,000	$	—	$	2,256,250
Interest on long-term debt(b)		134,950		205,743		70,470		—		411,163
Operating leases		1,041		1,808		1,495		2,375		6,719
Purchase obligations(c)		161,471		35,699		—		—		197,170
Ultra-deepwater drillships(d)		797,273		329,787		—		—		1,127,060
Long-term payable(e)		—		15,641		—		—		15,641
Total contractual obligations	$	1,313,485	$	2,126,178	$	571,965	$	2,375	$	4,014,003

(a) Includes current maturities of long-term debt. In preparing the scheduled maturities of our debt, we assume certain holders of debt under the Project Facilities Agreement will exercise their options to accelerate the maturity date to October 31, 2015.

(b) Interest payments are based on our existing outstanding borrowings. It is assumed there is not a refinancing of existing long-term debt and there are no prepayments. Interest has been calculated using the interest rate of 1.83% for the Bora Term Loan, 1.87% for the Scirocco Term Loan, 1.60% for the Mistral Term Loan and 2.39% for the Santa Ana Term Loan based on the interest rate swap notional values for each respective Term Loan plus an estimated applicable margin for each of the Term Loans of 3.5%. Interest on the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds is calculated at the fixed rate of 8.25%. Interest on the 2017 Senior Secured Notes is calculated at the fixed rate of 7.25% and amortization of the debt discount.

(c) Purchase obligations are agreements to purchase goods and services that are enforceable and legally binding, that specify all significant terms, including the quantities to be purchased, price provisions and the approximate timing of the transactions, which includes our purchase orders for goods and services entered into in the normal course of business.

(d) Amounts for ultra-deepwater drillships include amounts due under construction contracts. In January 2013, we exercised our option and entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of our eighth drillship, which increased the amount due under construction contracts by $517.5 million.

(e) The long-term payable is due to the customer for reimbursements of certain capital equipment upon the termination of the drilling contract with Chevron for the Pacific Bora. For purposes of the contractual obligations table, we assume the contract will terminate after its initial three-year period.

Some of the figures included in the table above are based on estimates and assumptions about these obligations, including their duration and other factors. The contractual obligations we will actually pay in future periods may vary from those reflected in the tables because the estimates and assumptions are subjective.

G. SAFE HARBOR

The safe harbor provided in Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act shall apply to forward-looking information provided pursuant to Items 5E and 5F. See “Forward Looking Statements” in this annual report.

ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

A. DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT

Senior Management

We rely on the senior management of our principal operating subsidiaries to manage our business. Our senior management team is responsible for the day-to-day management of our operations. Members of our senior

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management are appointed from time to time by vote of the Board of Directors and hold office until a successor is elected and qualified. The current members of our senior management are:

Name	Age	Position
Christian J. Beckett	44	Chief Executive Officer
Robert F. MacChesney	55	Chief Operating Officer
William J. Restrepo	53	Chief Financial Officer
Cees Van Diemen	59	Senior Vice President of Operations
Kinga E. Doris	43	Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
Paul T. Reese	43	Vice President, Controller

Christian J. Beckett. Mr. Beckett has served as our Chief Executive Officer since April 2008 and as a member of our Board of Directors since March 11, 2011. Mr. Beckett has over 20 years of experience in the energy industry. Prior to joining us, he led the Strategic Business Development and Planning group at Transocean Ltd. from 2004 to 2008. Mr. Beckett served at McKinsey & Company, Inc. from 2001 to 2004, where he provided strategic and operating advice to global energy companies and governments, and from 1990 to 2001 at Schlumberger Limited in a series of international management roles with increasing responsibilities. Mr. Beckett was appointed to the board of directors of Tellus Oilfield Inc. in October 2012. Mr. Beckett holds a Bachelor of Science in Exploration Geophysics from University College London and a Masters of Business Administration from Rice University.

Robert F. MacChesney. Mr. MacChesney has served as our Chief Operations Officer since September 2008. Mr. MacChesney has over 30 years of experience in the drilling industry. Prior to joining us, he served at Transocean from 2000 to 2008 and at Schlumberger Limited, and offshore drilling subsidiary Sedco Forex Limited, from 1979 to 2000. During his tenure with Transocean Ltd. and Schlumberger Limited, he held a variety of positions in Operations Management and Marketing, including Country Manager in Malaysia, India, Brazil and the United Kingdom, Region Manager in the Middle East and India and Corporate Director, Deepwater Marketing. Mr. MacChesney holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Southampton University in the United Kingdom.

William J. Restrepo. Mr. Restrepo has served as our Chief Financial Officer since February 2011. Mr. Restrepo was the Chief Financial Officer for Smith International, Inc. from October 2009 until the date of its merger with Schlumberger Limited on August 27, 2010. From 2005 to 2009, Mr. Restrepo was the Chief Financial Officer for Seitel, Inc., a leading provider of seismic data for the North American oil and gas industry. From 1985 to 2005, Mr. Restrepo held financial and operational positions at Schlumberger Limited, including Regional General Manager for Continental Europe and for the Arabian Gulf, Corporate Treasurer, and Vice President of Finance for the pressure pumping and directional drilling business units, with international posts in Europe, South America and the Middle East. In March 2012, Mr. Restrepo was appointed to the board of directors of Platinum Energy Solutions Inc., an oilfield services provider and currently serves as the Chairman of its Audit Committee. In September 2008, Mr. Restrepo was appointed to the board of directors of Probe, Inc., a manufacturer of wireline logging equipment and currently serves as the Chairman of its Finance and Audit Committee. Mr. Restrepo holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Cornell University, a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Miami and a Masters of Business Administration from Cornell University.

Cees Van Diemen. Mr. Van Diemen has served as our Vice President of Operations since February 2009. Mr. Van Diemen has over 35 years of experience in the mobile offshore drilling industry and extensive experience in deepwater drilling from the early days of 600 feet water depth activity in 1977 to recent operations in 9,200 feet water depth. Prior to joining us, he served at Noble Drilling Corporation, and its predecessor Neddrill, as Vice President & Division Manager Brazil from 2005 to October 2008 and Vice President & Division Manager Mobiles Europe from 2000 to 2005. Mr. Van Diemen’s career started offshore in the traditional drill positions from Floorman to Offshore Installation Manager, before taking on increasing responsibility in onshore management roles from rig manager in West Africa, the Mediterranean and the North

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Sea, to district manager in the North Sea and Vice President & Division Manager in Europe and more recently in Brazil. Mr. Van Diemen holds a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering from the University of Apeldoorn in the Netherlands.

Kinga E. Doris. Ms. Doris has served as our Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since September 2010. Ms. Doris has over 15 years of experience advising global energy companies and is a frequent speaker on FCPA and anti-corruption issues. Prior to joining us, she served as Chief Counsel for Pride International Inc. from 2006 to 2010, where she was responsible for legal affairs of the global operations and strategic planning groups. From 1999 to 2006, Ms. Doris served as Associate General Counsel of Core Laboratories N.V. Prior to joining Core Laboratories, Ms. Doris was an attorney in the Houston offices of Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP and LeBoeuf, Lamb, Greene, and MacRae LLP. Ms. Doris holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Juris Doctorate from Texas Tech University.

Paul T. Reese. Mr. Reese has served as our Vice President, Controller since October 2008. Mr. Reese has been a finance professional in the oilfield services and E&P space for over 15 years. Prior to joining Pacific Drilling, he was Controller for the global Exploration and Development divisions at BHP Billiton Petroleum. From 1995 to 2007, Mr. Reese served in various financial management roles at Transocean, including Finance Director for the North and South America Business Unit, Assistant Vice-President for Audit and Advisory Services and Finance Manager for the Asia & Australia and South America Regions, with international posts in Asia and Central and South America. Prior to joining Transocean, Mr. Reese was an auditor in the Houston offices of Arthur Andersen LLP. Mr. Reese holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Managerial Studies and a Masters of Accounting from Rice University.

Board of Directors

In accordance with Luxembourg law, our Board of Directors is responsible for administering our affairs and for ensuring that our operations are organized in a satisfactory manner.

Our Articles and Luxembourg law provide that our Board of Directors shall have no fewer than three members. The minimum number of directors that may sit on our Board of Directors may be changed by an amendment of the Articles approved by resolution passed at an extraordinary general meeting of our shareholders subject to a minimum of three members. Pursuant to the Articles, the directors will be elected by a general meeting of the shareholders. Resolutions adopted at a general meeting of shareholders determine the number of directors comprising our Board of Directors, the remuneration of the members of our Board of Directors and the term of each director’s mandate. Directors may not be appointed for a term of more than six years but are eligible for re-election at the end of their term. Directors may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by a resolution adopted at a general meeting of shareholders. If the office of a director becomes vacant, the other members of our Board of Directors, acting by a simple majority, may fill the vacancy on a provisional basis until a new director is appointed at the next general meeting of shareholders.

The current members of our Board of Directors are as follows:

Name	Age	Position
Ron Moskovitz	50	Chairman
Christian J. Beckett	44	Executive Director, Chief Executive Officer
Laurence N. Charney	65	Director
Jeremy Asher	54	Director
Paul Wolff	65	Director
Cyril Ducau	34	Director
Elias Sakellis	36	Director

Ron Moskovitz. Mr. Moskovitz was appointed as a director of the Company in March 2011. Mr. Moskovitz is the Chief Executive Officer of Quantum Pacific (UK) LLP, a member of the Quantum Pacific Group, and

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serves as a board member of Israel Corp., Israel’s largest holding company with its core holdings focused on industries that meet basic human, industrial and economic needs (e.g., fertilizers and specialty chemicals, energy, shipping and transportation), which may be considered an affiliate of the Idan Ofer family. From July 2008 until December 2012, Mr. Moskovitz served as Chief Executive Officer of Quantum Pacific Advisory Limited. From July 2002 until November 2007, Mr. Moskovitz served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Amdocs Limited. From 1998 until July 2002, he served as Vice President of Finance at Amdocs. Between 1994 and 1998, Mr. Moskovitz held various senior financial positions at Tower Semiconductor Ltd. and served on its board of directors from 2007 to September 2011. Mr. Moskovitz is a CPA in Israel and holds a BA in Accounting and Economics from Haifa University and an Master of Business Administration from Tel Aviv University.

Laurence N. Charney. Mr. Charney was appointed as a director of the Company in April 2011. Mr. Charney retired from Ernst & Young LLP (“Ernst & Young”) in June 2007, where, over the course of his more than 35-year career, he served as Partner, Practice Leader and Senior Advisor. Since his retirement from Ernst & Young, Mr. Charney has served as a business strategist and financial advisor to boards, senior management and investors of early stage ventures, private businesses and small to mid-cap public corporations across the consumer products, energy, real estate, high-tech/software, media/entertainment, and non-profit sectors. His most recent affiliations have included board tenures with Marvel Entertainment, Inc., Pure BioFuels, Inc. and Mrs. Fields Original Cookies. He was appointed to the board of TG Therapeutics, Inc. in April 2012 and the board of Iconix Brand Group, Inc. in February 2011. Mr. Charney is a graduate of Hofstra University with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration (Accounting), and he also completed an Executive Masters program at Columbia University. Mr. Charney maintains active membership with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants.

Jeremy Asher. Mr. Asher was appointed as a director of the Company in April 2011. Mr. Asher is currently Chairman of Agile Energy Limited, a privately held energy investment company; Chairman of Tower Resources plc, an oil & gas exploration company; a director of Better Place BV, a company promoting and enabling the mass deployment of electric cars; and an advisor to Oil Refineries Limited, an independent refiner and petrochemicals producer. Until 2010, he also served as a director of Gulf Keystone Petroleum Ltd., another oil and gas exploration company; and until 2008 he served as a director of Process Systems Enterprise Limited, a developer of process simulation software. Between 2001 and the present, Mr. Asher has also served as a director and financial investor in various other enterprises. From 1998 until 2001, Mr. Asher served as the Chief Executive Officer of PA Consulting Group, where he oversaw PA’s globalization and growth from 2,500 to nearly 4,000 employees, and negotiated and managed the integration of PA’s acquisition of Hagler Bailly, Inc. Between 1990 and 1997 he acquired, developed and sold the 275,000 bbl/d Beta oil refinery at Wilhelmshaven in Germany. Prior to that, in the late 1980’s, Mr. Asher ran the global oil products trading business of what is now Glencore AG and, prior to that, spent several years as a consultant at what is now Oliver Wyman. Mr. Asher is a graduate of the London School of Economics and holds an Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School. He is also a member of the London Business School’s Global Advisory Council and serves as a member of the Engineering Advisory Board of Imperial Innovations plc, the commercial arm of Imperial College.

Paul Wolff. Mr. Wolff was appointed as a director of the Company in April 2011. Since 2006, Mr. Wolff has served as an independent director and private investor in different financial and industrial companies. From 1971 to 2006, he worked in the banking sector in which he held various responsibilities in corporate and private banking. He served as a Managing Director of Mees Pierson, headed the Trust Business and was Head of Private Banking and Asset Management. Mr. Wolff has a degree in Commercial Engineering from University of Louvain, a Masters of Business Administration from INSEAD Fontainebleau, and Advanced Management Program from Harvard.

Cyril Ducau. Mr. Ducau was appointed as a director of the Company in April 2011. Mr. Ducau joined the Quantum Pacific Group in 2008 and is currently a Managing Director Finance and Business Development of

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Quantum Pacific Ventures Limited. Mr. Ducau was appointed to the board of directors of Quantum Pacific Shipping Services Pte. Ltd. in December 2012. He was previously Head of Business Development of Quantum Pacific Advisory Limited in London. Prior to joining the Quantum Pacific Group, Mr. Ducau was Vice President in the investment banking division of Morgan Stanley & Co. International Ltd. in London and during his tenure there from 2000 to 2008, he held various positions in the Capital Markets, Leveraged Finance and Mergers and Acquisitions teams. Prior to that, Mr. Ducau gained experience in consultancy working for Arthur D. Little in Munich and investment management with Credit Agricole UI Private Equity in Paris. Mr. Ducau graduated from ESCP Europe Business School (Paris, Oxford, Berlin) and holds a Master of Science in business administration and a Diplom Kaufmann.

Elias Sakellis. Mr. Sakellis was appointed as a director of the Company in June 2012. Mr. Sakellis joined Quantum Pacific Advisory Limited in May 2012 as Managing Director. He was appointed Managing Director of Business Development of Quantum Pacific (UK) LLP in January 2013. Prior to joining Quantum Pacific (UK) LLP, Mr. Sakellis worked at Goldman, Sachs & Co. in London from 2000 to 2012. During his tenure at Goldman, Sachs & Co., he held various positions, including Executive Director of Leveraged Finance & Restructuring in the Investment Banking Division, Executive Director and Business Unit Manager in the Investment Banking Division, and Financial Analyst and Associate in the Equities Division. Prior to joining Goldman, Sachs & Co., Mr. Sakellis gained experience in the banking sector by working as an analyst for Lehman Brothers in London from 1999 to 2000. Mr. Sakellis is a graduate of Imperial College London with a Master of Science in Finance and a Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering. He also holds a Master of Business Administration from INSEAD.

B. COMPENSATION

Senior Management

Members of our senior management receive compensation for the services they provide. The aggregate cash compensation paid to all members of senior management as a group was approximately $4.5 million for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012. In addition, under the Pacific Drilling S.A. 2011 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2011 Plan,” as described in more detail under “Equity Compensation Plans” below), the Company granted in 2012 an aggregate of 1,049,008 options to purchase its common shares to members of our senior management team at an exercise price of $10.12 per share that expire after 10 years and 62,256 restricted share units with a grant date value of $10.12 per share that vest 25% annually over four years.

The cash compensation for each member of senior management is principally comprised of base salary and bonus. The compensation that we pay to our senior management is evaluated on an annual basis considering the following primary factors: individual performance during the prior year, market rates and movements and the individual’s anticipated contribution to us and our growth. Members of our senior management team are also eligible to participate in our retirement savings plans, described below under “Benefit Plans and Programs.” In addition, members of our senior management are eligible to participate in welfare benefit programs made available to our U.S. workforce generally, including medical, dental, life insurance and disability benefits. We believe that the compensation awarded to our senior management is consistent with that of our peers and similarly situated companies in the industry in which we operate.

Directors

During the year ended December 31, 2012, we paid an aggregate of approximately $0.2 million in directors’ fees to the independent members of the Board of Directors. In addition, Messrs. Asher, Charney and Wolff each received an award of 20,000 options and 4,000 restricted stock units under our equity compensation plan. We have also paid an aggregate of approximately $0.1 million in directors’ fees to the non-independent members of the Board of Directors affiliated with Quantum Pacific Group. We pay these directors’ fees directly to Quantum Pacific Group. Members of our Board of Directors who are also our employees or employees of our subsidiaries do not receive any additional compensation for their service on our Board of Directors. We believe that our

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director fee structure is customary and reasonable for companies of our kind and consistent with that of our peers and similarly situated companies in the industry in which we operate. These fees may be increased from time to time by a resolution of the general meeting of shareholders.

Equity Compensation Plans

The 2011 Plan provides for the granting of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted share units and other equity-based or equity-related awards to directors, officers, employees and consultants. Subject to adjustment as provided, 7.2 million common shares of Pacific Drilling S.A. are reserved and authorized for issuance pursuant to the terms of the 2011 Plan. The Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors approves participants and, subject to the terms and conditions of the 2011 Plan, determines the terms and conditions of awards under the 2011 Plan.

Under the 2011 Plan, a total of 3,975,638 options and 289,688 restricted share units are outstanding, of which 3,047,668 options and 62,256 restricted share units were granted to members of senior management. The exercise price of the stock options range from $10.00 to $10.12 per share. The options expire no earlier than March 31, 2021. The restricted share units were granted at a value of $10.12 per share that vest 25% annually over four years from the date of grant.

We also have granted awards of 60,000 options and 24,000 restricted stock units under the 2011 Plan to certain members of our Board of Directors. The exercise price of the stock options are $10.12 per share. The options expire approximately 10 years after March 31, 2012. The restricted share units were granted at a range of $8.54 to $10.12 per share that vest 25% annually over four years from the date of grant.

Benefit Plans and Programs

Pacific Drilling sponsors a defined contribution retirement plan covering substantially all U.S. employees (the “U.S. Savings Plan”) and an international savings plan (the “International Savings Plan”). Under the U.S. Savings Plan, the Company matches 100% of employee contributions (limited to $17,000 or, for employees age 50 or over, $22,500) up to 6% of eligible compensation per participant. Under the International Savings Plan, we contribute 6% of base income (limited to $15,000 per participant). During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, our total employer contributions to both plans amounted to $3.7 million, $2.8 million and $0.5 million, respectively.

We have established an annual Bonus Plan for key employees whose decisions, activities and performance have a significant impact on business results. Target bonus levels are determined on an individual basis and take into account individual performance, competitive pay practices and external market conditions. Achievement of bonus payment is based on the achievement of the company financial target and individual goals.

C. BOARD PRACTICES

See Item 10, “Memorandum and Articles of Association—Appointment and Removal of Directors” for a detailed description regarding the appointment and removal of our Board of Directors.

On March 8, 2012, we held an extraordinary general meeting of our shareholders to re-appoint Mr. Beckett and Mr. Moskovitz, whose current terms were set to expire on March 11, 2012, as directors for a term running through the Annual General Meeting of the Company in 2013 to be held on May 13, 2013 and to re-appoint Cyril Ducau, Sarit Sagiv, Laurence N. Charney, Jeremy Asher and Paul Wolff, whose current terms were due to expire on April 5, 2012, as directors for a term running through the Annual General Meeting of the Company in 2013 to be held on May 13, 2013.

On March 31, 2012, Sarit Sagiv resigned from the Board and on June 11, 2012, the Board appointed Elias Sakellis as a Director for a term running through the Annual General Meeting of the Company in 2013 to be held on May 13, 2013 to fill the vacancy created by Ms. Sagiv’s resignation.

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There are no service contracts between us and any of our directors providing for benefits upon termination of their service.

Committees of the Board of Directors

Our Board of Directors has an Audit Committee and a Compensation Committee, and may have such other committees as the Board of Directors shall determine from time to time. Each of the standing committees of our Board of Directors has the composition and responsibilities described below.

Audit Committee

The members of our Audit Committee are Messrs. Asher, Charney and Wolff, each of whom our Board of Directors has determined is financially literate. Mr. Charney is the Chairman of the Audit Committee. Our Board of Directors has determined that each of the members of our Audit Committee is “independent” under the standards of the NYSE and SEC regulations. In addition, our Board of Directors has determined that Mr. Charney is the Audit Committee financial expert.

The Audit Committee’s primary responsibilities are to assist the Board of Directors’ oversight of: our accounting practices; the integrity of our financial statements; our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements; the qualifications, selection, independence and performance of our independent registered public accounting firm (the “independent auditor”); and the internal audit function. We have adopted an Audit Committee charter defining the committee’s primary duties in a manner consistent with the rules of the SEC and the NYSE or market standards.

Compensation Committee

The members of our Compensation Committee are Messrs. Asher, Charney and Moskovitz. Mr. Asher is the Chairman of our Compensation Committee. The purpose of this committee is to oversee the discharge of the responsibilities of our Board of Directors relating to compensation of our executive officers. Our Compensation Committee also administers our incentive compensation and benefit plans. We have adopted a Compensation Committee charter defining the committee’s primary duties in a manner consistent with the rules of the SEC and the NYSE or market standards.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

No member of our Compensation Committee has been at any time an employee of ours. None of our executive officers serve on the board of directors or compensation committee of a company that has an executive officer that serves on our Board of Directors or Compensation Committee. No member of our Board of Directors is an executive officer of a company in which one of our executive officers serves as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee of that company.

Corporate Governance

Our Board of Directors is empowered to take any action necessary or desirable in view of carrying out our corporate objective, except for the powers specifically allocated to the general meeting of shareholders by law and/or by the Articles.

The Articles provide that our day-to-day management and the power to represent us in such matters may be delegated to one or more directors, officers or other agents. The day-to-day management has been delegated to our Chief Executive Officer, Christian J. Beckett, and Ron Moskovitz, the Chairman of our Board of Directors, each of whom are authorized to represent us individually in this regard. However, certain matters may not be delegated by our Board of Directors, including approval of our accounts, approval of our annual budget, approval of our policies and approval of recommendations made by any committee of our Board of Directors.

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The Articles further provide that we are bound towards third parties in all matters by the joint signature of a majority of our Board of Directors. In addition, we are also bound towards third parties by the joint or single signature of any person to whom special signatory powers have been delegated pursuant to the Articles.

All decisions to be taken by our Board of Directors are subject to a quorum and vote of a majority of the directors. A Chairman of the Board is elected from the members of the Board. The Chairman has a casting vote in the event of a tie vote. Our Chairman of the Board is Ron Moskovitz, who was appointed for an initial one-year term that ended on March 12, 2012 and was re-elected for a subsequent term expiring on May 13, 2013 at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders in 2013 at a special meeting of shareholders held at the Company’s principal executive offices in Luxembourg on March 8, 2012.

The Board must make all decisions in our best interests and each director must notify the Board of any possible conflicts between his/her personal interests and ours. A director must refrain from participating in any deliberation or decision involving such a conflict. A special report on the relevant conflict of interest transaction will be submitted to the shareholders at the next general meeting before any vote on the matter.

As a foreign private issuer we are exempt from certain requirements of the NYSE that are applicable to U.S. listed companies. For a listing and further discussion of how our corporate governance practices differ from those required of U.S. companies on the NYSE, see Item 16G or visit the corporate governance section of our website at www.pacificdrilling.com.

D. EMPLOYEES

Employees

As of December 31, 2012, we and our subsidiaries had a total of 603 employees and 403 subcontractors. These employees consisted of:

• 92 employees and subcontractors in construction management;

• 809 employees and subcontractors in engineering and operations; and

• 105 employees and subcontractors in finance, strategy and business development, sales and marketing and other administrative functions.

As of December 31, 2012, approximately 291 of our employees were located in the United States, 91 were located in Korea, 393 were located in Nigeria and 210 located in Brazil. The remainder of our employees were in various other locations around the world.

As of December 31, 2011, we and our subsidiaries had a total of 676 employees and 206 subcontractors. These employees consisted of:

• 26 employees and subcontractors in construction management;

• 718 employees and subcontractors in engineering and operations; and

• 138 employees and subcontractors in finance, strategy and business development, sales and marketing and other administrative functions.

As of December 31, 2011, approximately 101 of our employees were located in the United States, 212 were located in Korea, 375 were located in Nigeria and 189 located in Brazil. The remainder of our employees were in various other locations around the world.

As of December 31, 2010, we and our subsidiaries had a total of 276 employees and 160 subcontractors. These employees consisted of:

• 88 employees and subcontractors in construction management;

• 279 employees and subcontractors in engineering and operations; and

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• 69 employees and subcontractors in finance, strategy and business development, sales and marketing and other administrative functions.

As of December 31, 2010, approximately 75 of our employees and subcontractors were located in the United States and 357 were located in Korea. The remainder of our employees and subcontractors were in various other locations around the world.

During 2010, we continued to expand management and personnel in operations, finance, human resources, information technology and other corporate departments needed to market the vessels and conduct operations, as well as recruited and trained staff, including rig personnel, for the Pacific Bora.

During 2011, we substantially completed the manning of the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco crews and continued manning of the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana.

During 2012, we substantially completed the manning of the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana and commenced manning of the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav.

We believe that our relations with employees are good. The employees of one of our manpower providers in Nigeria are currently represented by unions and covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Our employees in Brazil are currently represented by unions and covered by a collective bargaining agreement.

E. SHARE OWNERSHIP

The table below shows the number of common shares beneficially owned and the percentage owned of our outstanding common shares for our directors, officers and key employees as of February 15, 2013, and the percentage held of the total common shares in issue. Also shown are their interests in share options awarded to them under the Pacific Drilling S.A. 2011 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the “2011 Stock Plan”). See Item 6, “Compensation—Equity Compensation Plans” for a description of the 2011 Stock Plan.

	Beneficial Interest in Common Shares
Director or Key Employee	Number of shares		Percentage
Christian J. Beckett		*		*
Robert F. MacChesney		*		*
William J. Restrepo		*		*
Cees Van Diemen		*		*
Kinga E. Doris		*		*
Paul T. Reese		*		*
Ron Moskovitz		—		—
Laurence N. Charney		*		*
Jeremy Asher		*		*
Paul Wolff		*		*
Cyril Ducau		—		—
Elias Sakellis		—		—
All officers and directors as a group(1)		*		*

* Owns less than 1% based on the total number of outstanding common shares as of February 15, 2013.

(1) Includes 579,690 of exercisable options and RSUs held by our senior management and directors as of February 15, 2013.

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ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

A. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS

The following table sets forth information as of February 15, 2013 for each shareholder whom we know to beneficially own more than five percent of our outstanding common shares:

	Common Shares Held
Identity of Person or Group	Number of Shares		Percentage
Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited(1)(2)		150,000,000		69.2	%

(1) Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited is a Gibraltar company and wholly-owned subsidiary of Quantum Pacific International Limited, the indirect ultimate owner of which is a trust in which Idan Ofer and certain members of his family are the primary beneficiaries. The address of Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited is 57/63 Line Wall Road, Gibraltar.

(2) Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited has pledged a total of 65,070,000 shares of common stock held by it as security for a margin loan.

Prior to our issuance of 60,000,000 common shares to private investors in the 2011 Private Placement, Quantum Pacific Group owned 100% of our common shares. Immediately after completion of the 2011 Private Placement, Quantum Pacific Group owned approximately 71.4% of our common shares. Following the completion of our initial public offering and the exercise of the underwriter over-allotment option, Quantum Pacific Group owned approximately 69.2% of our common shares. Our major shareholders do not have different voting rights than our other shareholders.

Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited has entered into a margin loan arrangement with a financial institution pursuant to which it has pledged 65,070,000 shares as collateral. In the event of a decline in the value of our shares, a margin call may be triggered. Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited’s failure to promptly meet any margin calls or default under these financing arrangements could result in the sale or other disposition of some or all of the pledged shares, which could result in one or more persons other than Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited acquiring a significant voting interest in the Company.

In December 2011, the Company issued all 7,200,000 common shares reserved for issuance under our Pacific Drilling S.A. 2011 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (“Reserve Option Shares”) to one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries. These Reserve Option Shares are treated as issued but not outstanding and are held internally for purposes of administering our Pacific Drilling S.A. 2011 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan. The Reserve Option Shares will be issued when and if the respective option holders submit a valid and proper exercise of their legally vested options. Prior to issuance to any such option holders, the Reserve Option Shares do not have voting rights and do not participate in the earnings of the Company.

As of February 15, 2013, we had only one shareholder of record in the United States, CEDE & CO (nominee of the Depository Trust Company) in whose name all shareholdings in the United States are recorded. This single shareholder of record in the United States represented approximately 29.5% of the total outstanding common shares. The number of beneficial owners of our common shares in the United States is significantly larger than the number of record holders of our common shares in the United States.

B. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The joint venture agreements relating to TPDI provided Quantum Pacific Group with a put option that allowed it to exchange its 50% interest in TPDI for shares of Transocean Ltd. or cash at a purchase price based on an appraisal of the fair value of the two vessels owned by TPDI, subject to various customary adjustments. In conjunction with the TPDI Transfer and a related amendment to the Original Project Facilities Agreement, a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group guaranteed to the lenders that any proceeds from the exercise of the put

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option relating to the equity interest in TPDI would be used to prepay or secure the Project Facilities Agreement. In consideration for this guarantee, we agreed to pay the Quantum Pacific Group a fee of 0.25% per annum on the outstanding borrowings on the Project Facilities Agreement. During the year ended December 31, 2012, fees of $1.3 million were incurred of which $0.5 million were recorded to property and equipment as capitalized interest costs. On April 24, 2012, the Quantum Pacific Group TPDI Put Option Guarantee was terminated and the Quantum Pacific Group was released from its obligations thereunder. In connection with the termination and release of the TPDI Put Option Guarantee, we were released from our obligation to pay the Quantum Pacific Group a fee of 0.25% per annum on the outstanding borrowings on the Project Facilities Agreement and the related agreement was terminated.

In February 2012, the Quantum Pacific Group purchased $40 million of the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds issued as part of our 2012 Bond Offering. Following their initial purchase, the Quantum Pacific Group sold their $40 million of the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds to unrelated parties. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness—8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds” for a description of the 2012 Bond Offering.

C. INTERESTS OF EXPERTS AND COUNSEL

Not applicable.

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

A. CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

See Item 18, “Financial Statements” within this annual report.

Legal Proceedings

It is to be expected that we and our subsidiaries will be routinely involved in litigation and disputes arising in the ordinary course of our business. We do not believe that ultimate liability, if any, resulting from any such pending litigation will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations. As of the date hereof, we are not involved in any such legal proceedings.

Dividend Policy

We have not paid a dividend on our common shares, cash or otherwise, and we do not intend to do so in the immediate future. Additionally, our Project Facilities Agreement restricts the entities that own the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana from distributing cash to us until January 2014, which may restrict our ability to make dividends to our shareholders. Under the terms of our 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds, we are restricted from paying dividends exceeding 50% of consolidated net income for the preceding fiscal year. Under the terms of the 2017 Senior Secured Notes, subject to certain exceptions, we are limited in our ability to pay dividends, purchase or redeem our capital stock or make other restricted payments. The terms of the SSCF allow the payment of dividends or distributions to our shareholders under certain conditions more fully set forth therein, whereby we may distribute up to 50% of our net income per year for the year 2013 and thereafter. See Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness” for a more detailed description of the terms of our Project Facilities Agreement, the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds, the 2017 Senior Secured Notes and our SSCF.

The payment of future dividends, if any, will be determined by us in light of conditions then existing, including our earnings, financial condition, capital requirements, restrictions in existing and future financing agreements, business conditions and other factors. Pursuant to our Articles, the Board of Directors has the power to distribute interim dividends in accordance with applicable Luxembourg law. Dividends may be lawfully declared and paid if our net profits and distributable reserves are sufficient under Luxembourg law. Under

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Luxembourg law, at least 5% of our net profits per year must be allocated to the creation of a legal reserve until such reserve has reached an amount equal to 10% of our issued share capital. If the legal reserve subsequently falls below the 10% threshold, at least 5% of net profits again must be allocated toward the reserve. The legal reserve is not available for distribution.

We intend to make a dividend to holders of our common shares as soon as we determine it is prudent to do so, taking into account capital expenditures, targeted growth and performance metrics, and restrictions imposed under our Project Facilities Agreement, our 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds, our 2017 Senior Secured Notes, our SSCF and any additional debt financing we enter into in connection with the construction of our eighth drillship and any additional drillships we may construct or acquire.

B. SIGNIFICANT CHANGES

In January 2013, we exercised our option and entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of our eighth drillship, which is expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2015.

On February 19, 2013, Pacific Sharav S.à r.l. and Pacific Drilling VII Limited as the Borrowers, and Pacific Drilling S.A. as the Guarantor entered into a senior secured credit facility agreement with a group of lenders to finance the construction, operation and other costs associated with the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem, described in further detail in Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness.”

ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING

A. OFFER AND LISTING DETAILS

Shares of our common stock have traded on the Norwegian OTC List since April 5, 2011 under the symbol “PDSA.” Shares of our common stock commenced trading on the NYSE on November 11, 2011 under the symbol “PACD.” The NYSE listing is intended to be the Company’s primary listing and the Norwegian OTC listing is intended to be the Company’s secondary listing.

On February 15, 2013, the closing price of our common shares on the NYSE was $9.95 per share and on the Norwegian OTC was 52.75 NOK per share.

The following table sets forth, for each full financial year, high and low intraday sale prices of our common shares:

	Price Per Common Share
	NYSE				NOTC
Fiscal Year Ended December 31,	High (US$)		Low (US$)		High (NOK)		Low (NOK)
2012.		11.47		7.77		63.00		46.00

The following table sets forth, for each full financial quarter for the two most recent fiscal years, high and low intraday sale prices of our common shares since they began trading on the NYSE on November 11, 2011 and on the Norwegian OTC List on April 2, 2011:

	Price Per Common Share
	NYSE				NOTC
	High		Low		High		Low
	(US$)		(US$)		(NOK)		(NOK)
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2012
Fourth quarter		10.99		9.09		60.75		52.00
Third quarter		10.79		8.21		55.00		50.00
Second quarter		10.40		7.77		60.00		46.00
First quarter		11.47		8.95		63.00		52.50

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	Price Per Common Share
	NOTC
		High		Low
		(NOK)		(NOK)
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2011
Fourth quarter			52.50		45.00
Third quarter			53.00		35.00

The following table sets forth, for the six most recent months, high and low intraday sale prices of our common shares:

	Price Per Common Share
	NYSE				NOTC
	High		Low		High		Low
	(US$)		(US$)		(NOK)		(NOK)
February 2013(a)		10.64		9.95		N/A		N/A
January 2013		10.42		9.54		52.75		52.75
December 2012		9.85		9.09		59.75		52.50
November 2012		10.99		9.14		60.75		55.00
October 2012		10.36		9.76		60.00		52.00
September 2012		10.79		9.36		55.00		52.00

(a) February 1, 2013—February 15, 2013. No trading occurred on the NOTC for the period.

B. PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

Not applicable.

C. MARKETS

Our common shares currently trade on the NYSE and the Norwegian OTC under the symbol “PACD” and “PDSA,” respectively.

D. SELLING SHAREHOLDERS

Not applicable.

E. DILUTION

Not applicable.

F. EXPENSES OF THE ISSUE

Not applicable.

ITEM 10.    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

A. SHARE CAPITAL

Not applicable.

B. MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

Our Amended and Restated Articles of Association were filed as Exhibit 3.2 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 (Registration No. 333-177774), which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 7, 2011, and are hereby incorporated by reference into this Annual Report.

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Description of Share Capital

The following is a summary of our share capital and the rights of the holders of our common shares that are material to an investment in our common shares. These rights are set forth in our Articles or are provided by applicable Luxembourg law, and these rights may differ from those typically provided to shareholders of U.S. companies under the corporation laws of the various states of the United States. This summary does not contain all information that may be important to readers.

Our share capital is comprised of common shares. As of February 15, 2013, an aggregate of 216,902,000 common shares, accounting par value $0.01 and without nominal value, were issued and outstanding. Each of our outstanding common shares entitles its holder to one vote at any general meeting of shareholders.

Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited has entered into a margin loan arrangement with a financial institution pursuant to which it has pledged 65,070,000 shares as collateral. In the event of a decline in the value of our shares, a margin call may be triggered. Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited’s failure to promptly meet any margin calls or default under these financing arrangements could result in the sale or other disposition of some or all of the pledged shares, which could result in one or more persons other than Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited acquiring a significant voting interest in the Company.

To our knowledge, as of February 15, 2013, there are no additional shareholders’ arrangements or agreements the implementation or performance of which could, at a later date, result in a change in the control of us in favor of a third person other than the current controlling shareholder, an entity controlled by the Quantum Pacific Group.

Our common shares are governed by Luxembourg law and our Articles. More information concerning shareholders’ rights can be found in the Luxembourg law on commercial companies dated August 10, 1915, as amended from time to time, and our Articles.

General

We are a Luxembourg société anonyme (a joint stock corporation). Our legal name is “Pacific Drilling S.A.” We were incorporated on March 11, 2011.

Pacific Drilling S.A. is registered with the Luxembourg Registry of Trade and Companies under the number B159658. Our registered office is located at 37, rue d’Anvers, L-1130 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

Our corporate object, as stated in Article 3 (Corporate object) of our Articles, is the following: The Company’s object is the acquisition of participations, in Luxembourg or abroad, in any company or enterprise in any form whatsoever, and the management of those participations. The Company may in particular acquire, by subscription, purchase and exchange or in any other manner, any stock, shares and other participation securities, bonds, debentures, certificates of deposit and other debt instruments and, more generally, any securities and financial instruments issued by any public or private entity. It may participate in the creation, development, management and control of any company or enterprise. Further, it may invest in the acquisition and management of a portfolio of patents or other intellectual property rights of any nature or origin.

Under our Articles, we may borrow in any form. We may issue notes, bonds and any kind of debt and equity securities. We may lend funds, including, without limitation, the proceeds of any borrowings, to our subsidiaries, affiliated companies and any other companies. We may also give guarantees and pledge, transfer, encumber or otherwise create and grant security over some or all of our assets to guarantee our own obligations and those of any other company, and, generally, for our own benefit and that of any other company or person. We may not, however, carry out any regulated financial sector activities without having obtained the requisite authorization.

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We may use techniques, legal means and instruments to manage our investment efficiently and to protect ourselves against credit risks, currency exchange exposure, interest rate risks and other risks.

We may carry out any commercial, financial or industrial operation and any transaction with respect to real estate or movable property, which directly or indirectly, favors or relates to our corporate object.

Share Capital

As of February 15, 2013, our issued share capital amounts to $2,241,000, represented by 224,100,000 common shares and 216,902,000 common shares issued and outstanding, par value $0.01 and without nominal value. We are authorized to issue $50,000,000 of share capital (such amount including the currently issued share capital of $2,241,000) and are authorized to issue up to 5,000,000,000 common shares, having an accounting par value of $0.01 and without nominal value (such number of shares including the 224,100,000 shares already issued), out of such authorized share capital.

Under Article 5 of our Articles, our share capital was set on incorporation at $50,000, represented by 50,000 shares in registered form without nominal value. On March 30, 2011, the sole shareholder, Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited, held a general meeting to approve amending the Company’s Articles to authorize the Board of Directors, for a period of five years, to issue up to $50,000,000 of share capital (inclusive of current share capital of the Company). On March 30, 2011, our Board of Directors resolved to split the outstanding 50,000 common shares into 5,000,000 common shares, without nominal value. These common shares are held by Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited. In addition, on March 30, 2011, our Board of Directors resolved for Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited to become the indirect sole shareholder of all issued common shares of our Predecessor in exchange for the issuance of 145,000,000 of our common shares. As of March 31, 2011, our common shares consisted of 150,000,000 issued and outstanding common shares, having an accounting par value $0.01, all of which are held by an entity controlled by Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited. In connection with the 2011 Private Placement, we issued 60,000,000 common shares to international and U.S. investors for gross proceeds of $600 million. Following completion of the 2011 Private Placement, our share capital consisted of 210,000,000 common shares issued and outstanding.

In November 2011, the Company completed an initial public offering of 6,000,000 common shares. In December 2011, the underwriters purchased an additional 900,000 common shares pursuant to the full exercise of an over-allotment option. The initial public offering resulted in net proceeds of approximately $50.3 million. In December 2011, the Company also issued 7,200,000 common shares to one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, which represents 3.3% of our outstanding common shares. These common shares are held in treasury for purposes of administering our Pacific Drilling S.A. 2011 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan.

As of December 31, 2012, the Company’s share capital consisted of 5,000,000,000 common shares authorized and 216,902,000 common shares issued and outstanding of which approximately 69.2% was held by Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited.

Form and Transfer of Shares

Our shares are issued in registered form only and are freely transferable, subject to any restrictions that may be provided for in our Articles or in any agreement entered into between shareholders. Luxembourg law does not impose any limitations on the rights of Luxembourg or non-Luxembourg residents to hold or vote our shares.

Issuance of Shares

Pursuant to Luxembourg law, the issuance of our common shares requires the approval by the general meeting of shareholders at the quorum and vote requirements provided for the amendment of our Articles. The general meeting of shareholders may, however, approve an authorized unissued share capital and authorize the

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board of directors to issue shares up to the maximum amount of such authorized unissued share capital for a maximum period of five years from the date of publication in the Luxembourg official gazette of the minutes of the relevant general meeting. The general meeting may amend, renew or extend such authorized share capital and authorization to the board of directors to issue shares.

Pursuant to Article 5.3 of our Articles, our Board of Directors is authorized, for a period of five years from the publication of our incorporation deed on March 11, 2011, to increase the current share capital once or more up to $50,000,000 by the issue of new shares having the same rights as the existing shares, or without any such issue. Accordingly, our Board of Directors may issue up to 4,775,900,000 common shares until March 11, 2016 against contributions in cash, contributions in kind or by way of incorporation of available reserves at such times and on such terms and conditions, including the issue price, as our Board of Directors or its delegates may in its or their discretion resolve while waiving, suppressing or limiting any pre-emptive subscription rights of shareholders provided for by law to the extent it deems such waiver, suppression or limitation advisable for any issue or issues of shares within the authorized share capital.

Under Luxembourg law, our Board of Directors, or a duly appointed representative of our Board of Directors, is required to go before a Luxembourg notary within one month following an increase of our share capital by our Board of Directors to record the share capital increase by notarial deed.

Under Luxembourg law, shareholders in a société anonyme have a preferential right to subscribe for shares issued on the occasion of a share capital increase, where such shares are to be subscribed for in cash. Article 5.3 of our Articles limits this right in relation to our shareholders by granting our Board of Directors authorization to increase the current share capital by the issue of new shares having the same rights as the common shares, and to limit or withdraw the shareholders’ preferential subscription rights on such increase. This authorization is valid for a period of five years from the publication of our incorporation deed on March 11, 2011; however, such authorization may be renewed by a resolution passed at an extraordinary general meeting of the shareholders. The general meeting of shareholders also has the power to limit or withdraw the shareholders’ preferential subscription rights under certain circumstances as set forth under Luxembourg law.

Our Articles provide that no fractional shares may be issued.

Our common shares have no conversion rights, and there are no redemption or sinking fund provisions applicable to our common shares.

We cannot subscribe for our own shares.

Capital Reduction

Our Articles provide that the issued share capital may be reduced, subject to the approval by the general meeting of shareholders and the quorum and vote requirements provided for the amendment of our Articles.

General Meeting of Shareholders

In accordance with Luxembourg law and our Articles, any regularly constituted general meeting of shareholders represents the entire body of shareholders of the Company. The general meeting has full power to adopt and ratify all acts and operations which are consistent with our corporate object.

The annual general meeting of shareholders is held at 10:00 a.m. (Luxembourg time) on the second Monday of May of each year in Luxembourg. If that day is a legal or banking holiday, the meeting will be held on the immediately following business day. Other general meetings of shareholders may be convened at any time.

Each of our common shares entitles the holder of record thereof to attend our general meeting of shareholders, either in person or by proxy, to address the general meeting of shareholders, and to exercise voting

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rights, subject to the provisions of our Articles. Each share entitles the holder to one vote at a general meeting of shareholders. There is no minimum shareholding required to be able to attend or vote at a general meeting of shareholders.

Luxembourg law provides that our Board of Directors is obligated to convene a general meeting of shareholders if shareholders representing, in the aggregate, 10% of the issued share capital so require in writing with an indication of the agenda. In such case, the general meeting of shareholders must be held within one month of the request. If the requested general meeting of shareholders is not held within one month, shareholders representing, in the aggregate, 10% of the issued share capital may petition the competent president of the district court in Luxembourg to have a court appointee convene the meeting. Luxembourg law provides that shareholders representing, in the aggregate, 10% of the issued share capital may request that additional items be added to the agenda of a general meeting of shareholders. That request must be made by registered mail sent to our registered office at least five days before the holding of the general meeting of shareholders.

Voting Rights

Each common share entitles the holder thereof to one vote at a general meeting of shareholders.

Luxembourg law distinguishes between “ordinary” general meetings of shareholders and “extraordinary” general meetings of shareholders.

Extraordinary general meetings of shareholders are convened to resolve in particular upon an amendment to our Articles and certain other limited matters described below and are subject to the quorum and vote requirements described below. All other general meetings of shareholders are ordinary general meetings of shareholders.

Ordinary General Meetings of Shareholders. At an ordinary general meeting of shareholders there is no quorum requirement, and resolutions are adopted by a simple majority of the votes validly cast, irrespective of the number of shares present or represented. Abstentions are not considered “votes.”

Extraordinary General Meetings of Shareholders. An extraordinary general meeting of shareholders convened for the purpose of (a) an increase or decrease of the authorized or issued share capital, (b) a limitation or exclusion of preemptive rights, (c) approving a legal merger or de-merger of the Company, (d) dissolution of the Company or (e) except as described immediately below, an amendment of our Articles must have a quorum of at least 50% of our issued share capital, except in limited circumstances provided for by Luxembourg law. If such quorum is not reached, the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders may be reconvened, pursuant to appropriate notification procedures, at a later date with no quorum requirement applying.

Irrespective of whether the proposed actions described in the preceding paragraph will be subject to a vote at the first or a subsequent extraordinary general meeting of shareholders, such actions are subject to the approval of at least two-thirds of the votes validly cast at such extraordinary general meeting of shareholders (except in limited circumstances provided for by Luxembourg law). Abstentions are not considered “votes.”

Appointment and Removal of Directors. Members of our Board of Directors may be elected by simple majority of the votes validly cast at any general meeting of shareholders. Under our Articles, all directors can be elected for a period of up to six years with such possible extension as provided therein, provided that currently each director is serving a one-year term set to expire in April 2013, as the case may be. Any director may be removed with or without cause by a simple majority vote at any general meeting of shareholders. If the office of a director becomes vacant, our Articles provide that the other directors, acting by a simple majority, may fill the vacancy on a provisional basis until a new director is appointed at the next general meeting of shareholders.

Neither Luxembourg law nor our Articles contain any restrictions as to the voting of our common shares by non-Luxembourg residents.

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Amendment to Our Articles of Association

Luxembourg law requires an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders to resolve upon an amendment to our Articles. The agenda of the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders must indicate the proposed amendments to the Articles.

An extraordinary general meeting of shareholders convened for the purpose of amending our Articles must have a quorum of at least 50% of our issued share capital. If such quorum is not reached, the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders may be reconvened at a later date with no quorum according to the appropriate notification procedures. Irrespective of whether the proposed amendment will be subject to a vote at the first or a subsequent extraordinary general meeting of shareholders, the amendment is subject to the approval of at least two-thirds of the votes cast at such extraordinary general meeting of shareholders.

Any resolutions to amend our Articles must be taken before a Luxembourg notary and such amendments must be published in accordance with Luxembourg law.

Merger and Division

A merger by absorption whereby a Luxembourg company, after its dissolution without liquidation, transfers to another company all of its assets and liabilities in exchange for the issuance to the shareholders of the company being acquired of shares in the acquiring company, or a merger effected by transfer of assets to a newly incorporated company, must, in principle, be approved by an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders of the Luxembourg company to be held before a notary. Similarly the de-merger of a Luxembourg company is generally subject to the approval by an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders.

Liquidation

In the event of our liquidation, dissolution or winding-up, the assets remaining after allowing for the payment of all liabilities will be paid out to the shareholders pro rata to their respective shareholdings. The decision to voluntarily liquidate, dissolve or wind-up require the approval by an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders to be held before a notary.

No Appraisal Rights

Neither Luxembourg law nor our Articles provide for any appraisal rights of dissenting shareholders.

Distributions

Subject to Luxembourg law, each share is entitled to participate equally in distributions if and when declared by the general meeting of shareholders out of funds legally available for such purposes. Pursuant to our Articles, the general meeting of shareholders may approve distributions and our Board of Directors may declare interim distributions, to the extent permitted by Luxembourg law.

Declared and unpaid distributions held by us for the account of the shareholders shall not bear interest. Under Luxembourg law, claims for unpaid distributions will lapse in our favor five years after the date such distribution has been declared.

Annual Accounts

Each year our Board of Directors must prepare annual accounts, that is, an inventory of our assets and liabilities, together with a balance sheet and a profit and loss account. Our Board of Directors must also prepare management reports each year on the annual accounts. The annual accounts, the management report and the auditor’s reports must be available for inspection by shareholders at our registered office at least 15 calendar days prior to the date of the annual general meeting of shareholders.

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The annual accounts, after approval by the annual general meeting of shareholders, will need to be filed with the Luxembourg registry of trade and companies within seven months of the close of the financial year.

Information Rights

Luxembourg law gives shareholders limited rights to inspect certain corporate records 15 calendar days prior to the date of the annual general meeting of shareholders, including the annual accounts with the list of directors and auditors, the notes to the annual accounts, a list of shareholders whose shares are not fully paid-up, the management reports and the auditor’s report.

The annual accounts, the auditor’s reports and the management reports are sent to registered shareholders at the same time as the convening notice for the annual general meeting of shareholders. In addition, any registered shareholder is entitled to receive a copy of these documents free of charge 15 calendar days prior to the date of the annual general meeting of shareholders upon request.

Under Luxembourg law, it is generally accepted that a shareholder has the right to receive responses to questions concerning items on the agenda for a general meeting of shareholders if such responses are necessary or useful for a shareholder to make an informed decision concerning such agenda item, unless a response to such questions could be detrimental to our interests.

Transfer Agent and Registrar

The transfer agent and registrar for our common shares is American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC.

Equity Instruments and Other Arrangements Affecting Equity

Our Predecessor adopted the 2009 Plan, which provided for the granting of stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted share units and other equity-based or equity-related awards to directors, officers, employees and consultants. In March 2011, we substituted all outstanding awards under the 2009 Plan with new awards of options to purchase common shares under the 2011 Plan. All options under the 2011 Plan expire on the earliest of (i) ten years after the date of grant, (ii) 90 days after the employee ceases to provide services to us or one of our affiliates, or (iii) 6 months following the employee’s death. Concurrent with the Substitution, we terminated the 2009 Plan and no new awards will be made under that plan. See Item 6, “Compensation—Equity Compensation Plans” for additional information regarding the 2011 Plan.

C. MATERIAL CONTRACTS

The Company has no material contracts other than those entered into in the ordinary course of business and those described in our description of indebtedness. See Item  5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Description of Indebtedness.”

D. EXCHANGE CONTROLS

There are no legislative or other legal provisions currently in force in Luxembourg or arising under our Articles of Association that restrict the payment of dividends to holders of Pacific Drilling S.A. shares not resident in Luxembourg, except for regulations restricting the remittance of dividends and other payments in compliance with United Nations and European Union sanctions. There are no limitations, either under the laws of Luxembourg or in the Articles of Association, on the right of non-Luxembourg nationals to hold or vote Pacific Drilling S.A. shares.

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E. TAXATION

Material Luxembourg Tax Considerations for U.S. Holders of Common Shares

The following is a summary discussion of certain Luxembourg tax considerations that may be applicable to U.S. Holders as a result of owning or disposing of our Common Shares. This does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to any of our Common Shares, and does not purport to include tax considerations that arise from rules of general application or that are generally assumed to be known to holders. This discussion is not a complete analysis or listing of all of the possible tax consequences of such transactions and does not address all tax considerations that might be relevant to particular holders in light of their personal circumstances or to persons that are subject to special tax rules.

It is not intended to be, nor should it be construed to be, legal or tax advice. The summary is not exhaustive and we strongly encourage shareholders to consult their own tax advisors as to the Luxembourg tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of our Common Shares. The summary applies only to U.S. shareholders who will own our Common Shares as capital assets and does not apply to other categories of shareholders, such as dealers in securities, trustees, insurance companies, collective investment schemes and shareholders who have, or who are deemed to have, acquired their Common Shares in the capital of our Common Shares by virtue of an office or employment.

This discussion is based on the laws of the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg, including the Income Tax Act of December 4, 1967, as amended, the Municipal Business Tax Act of December 1, 1936, as amended and the Net Wealth Tax Act of October 16, 1934, as amended, to which we jointly refer to as the laws of the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg, including the regulations promulgated thereunder, and published judicial decisions and administrative pronouncements, each as in effect on the date of this annual report or with a known future effective date and is subject to any change in law or regulations or changes in interpretation or application thereof (and which may possibly have a retroactive effect). However, there can be no assurance that the Luxembourg tax authorities will not challenge any of the Luxembourg tax considerations described below; in particular, changes in law and/or administrative practice, as well as changes in relevant facts and circumstances, may alter the tax considerations described below. Prospective investors are encouraged to consult their own professional advisors as to the effects of state, local or foreign laws and regulations, including Luxembourg tax law and regulations, to which they may be subject.

For purposes of this summary, a “U.S. Holder” means any investor in our Common Shares who is a United States resident within the meaning of Article 4 of the double tax treaty of 3 April 1996 concluded between Luxembourg and the United States (the “Treaty”) and entitled to all the benefits of the Treaty pursuant to Article 24 of the Treaty.

Tax Regime Applicable to Realized Capital Gains

U.S. Holders

U.S. Holders will be subject to the following Luxembourg tax treatment in relation to capital gains in the cases described below (among others):

• An individual who is a U.S. Holder of Common Shares (and who does not have a permanent establishment, a permanent representative or a fixed place of business in Luxembourg to which the Common Shares are attributable) will not be subject to Luxembourg taxation on capital gains arising upon disposal of such Common Shares pursuant to Article 14 (5) of the Treaty. A corporate U.S. Holder, which has a permanent establishment, a permanent representative or a fixed place of business in Luxembourg to which our Common Shares are attributable, will be required to recognize capital gains (or losses as the case may be) on the sale of such Common Shares, which will be subject to Luxembourg corporate income tax and municipal business tax. However, gains realized on the sale of the Common Shares may benefit from the exemption provided for by Article 166 of the Luxembourg

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Income Tax and the Grand-Ducal Decree of December 21, 2001 (as amended) provided that at the time of the disposal of the Common Shares (a) the U.S. Holder (acting through its permanent representative or fixed place of business in Luxembourg) of Common Shares holds a stake representing at least 10% of our total share capital or a cost price of at least €6,000,000 and (b) such qualifying shareholding has been held for an uninterrupted period of at least 12 months or the U.S. Holder (acting through its permanent representative or fixed place of business in Luxembourg) undertakes to continue to own such qualifying shareholding until such time as the U.S. Holder (acting through its permanent representative or fixed place of business in Luxembourg) has held our Common Shares for an uninterrupted period of at least 12 months. In certain circumstances, the exemption may not apply in part or in full; for example; the capital gains exemption (for gains arising on an alienation of the Common Shares) does not apply to the amount of previously tax deducted expenses and write-offs related to these Common Shares.

• A corporate U.S. Holder, which has no permanent establishment in Luxembourg to which the Common Shares are attributable, will not be subject to Luxembourg taxation on capital gains arising upon disposal of such Common Shares pursuant to Article 14 (5) of the Treaty.

Tax Regime Applicable to Distributions

Luxembourg Withholding Tax

A Luxembourg withholding tax of 15% (17.65% if the dividend tax is not withheld from the shareholder) is due on dividends and similar distributions to our holders (subject to the exceptions discussed under “—Exemption from Luxembourg Withholding Tax” below). Absent an exception, we will be required to withhold at such rate from distributions to the shareholder and pay such withheld amounts to the Luxembourg tax authorities.

Exemption from Luxembourg Withholding Tax

Dividends and similar distributions paid to U.S. Holders may be exempt from Luxembourg dividend withholding tax if: (1) the U.S. Holder is a qualifying corporate entity holding a stake representing at least 10% of our total share capital or which acquired the Common Shares for at least €1,200,000 (or its equivalent amount in a foreign currency); and (2) the U.S. Holder has either held this qualifying stake in our capital for an uninterrupted period of at least 12 months at the time of the payment of the dividend or undertakes to continue to own such qualifying shareholding until such time as it has held the Common Shares for an uninterrupted period of at least 12 months. The U.S. Holder will be a qualifying corporate entity for the exemption mentioned above if it is fully subject to a tax in the United States that corresponds to Luxembourg corporate income tax.

Under current Luxembourg tax law, payments to shareholders in relation to a reduction of share capital or share premium are not subject to Luxembourg dividend withholding tax if certain conditions are met, including, for example, the condition that we do not have distributable reserves or profits. If we have, at the time of the payment to shareholders with respect to their Common Shares, distributable reserves or profits, a distribution of share capital or share premium will be recharacterized for Luxembourg tax purposes as a distribution of such reserves or earnings subject to withholding tax. Based on the above, if certain conditions are met, it can be expected that a substantial amount of potential future payments to be made by us may not be subject to Luxembourg withholding tax.

Reduction of Luxembourg Withholding Tax

U.S. corporate Holders may claim application of a reduced Luxembourg dividend withholding tax at a rate of 5% under the conditions provided for by Article 10 (2) (a) (i) of the Treaty, i.e., shareholding of at least 10% of the voting stock of the distributing company without minimum holding period in relation to these shares.

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Net Wealth Tax

U.S. Holders

Luxembourg net wealth tax will not be levied on a U.S. Holder with respect to the Common Shares unless the Common Shares are attributable to an enterprise or part thereof which is carried on through a permanent establishment, a fixed place of business or a permanent representative in Luxembourg, in which case an exemption may apply based on Paragraph 60 of the Law of October 16, 1934 on the valuation of assets (Bewertungsgesetz),

Registration Tax/Stamp Duty

No registration tax or stamp duty will be payable by a U.S. Holder of Common Shares in Luxembourg solely upon the disposal of Common Shares by sale or exchange.

Estate and Gift Taxes

No estate or inheritance tax is levied on the transfer of Common Shares upon the death of a U.S. Holder of Common Shares in cases where the deceased was not a resident of Luxembourg for inheritance tax purposes, and no gift tax is levied upon a gift of Common Shares if the gift is not passed before a Luxembourg notary or recorded in a deed registered in Luxembourg.

THE LUXEMBOURG TAX CONSIDERATIONS SUMMARIZED ABOVE ARE FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY. EACH PACIFIC DRILLING S.A. SHAREHOLDER IS ENCOURAGED TO CONSULT HIS OR HER TAX ADVISOR AS TO THE PARTICULAR CONSEQUENCES THAT MAY APPLY TO SUCH SHAREHOLDER.

Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations for Holders of Common Shares

The following is a discussion of the material U.S. federal income tax considerations relating to the purchase, ownership and disposition of our Common Shares. This discussion is based upon the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), existing and proposed Treasury Regulations thereunder, judicial authority and administrative interpretations, as of the date hereof, all of which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect, or are subject to different interpretations. There can be no assurance that the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) will take a similar view of such consequences, and we have not obtained, nor do we intend to obtain, a ruling from the IRS with respect to the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of the Common Shares. This discussion is limited to beneficial owners that hold our Common Shares as “capital assets” (generally, property held for investment).

This discussion does not address all U.S. federal income tax considerations that may be relevant to a particular holder based on its particular circumstances, and you are encouraged to consult your own independent tax advisor regarding your specific tax situation. For example, the discussion does not address the tax considerations that may be relevant to U.S. Holders in special tax situations, such as:

• dealers in securities or currencies;

• insurance companies;

• regulated investment companies and real estate investment trusts;

• tax-exempt organizations;

• brokers or dealers in securities or currencies and traders in securities that elect to mark to market;

• certain financial institutions;

• partnerships or other pass-through entities and holders of interests therein;

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• holders whose functional currency for U.S. federal income tax purposes is not the U.S. dollar;

• U.S. expatriates;

• individual retirement accounts and other tax deferred accounts;

• holders that acquired our Common Shares in compensatory transactions;

• holders that hold our Common Shares as part of a hedge, straddle or conversion or other integrated transaction; or

• holders that own, directly, indirectly, or constructively, 10% or more of the total combined voting power of the Company.

This discussion does not address the alternative minimum tax consequences of holding Common Shares. Moreover, this discussion does not address the state, local or non-U.S. tax consequences of holding our Common Shares, or any aspect of U.S. federal tax law other than U.S. federal income taxation.

You are a “U.S. Holder” if you are a beneficial owner of our Common Shares and you are, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:

• an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States;

• a corporation, or any other entity taxable as a corporation, created or organized in or under the laws of the United States or any State thereof, including the District of Columbia;

• an estate, the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or

• a trust (a) if a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over its administration and one or more United States persons (as defined in the Code) have the authority to control all of its substantial decisions or (b) that has a valid election in effect under applicable Treasury Regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.

You are a “Non-U.S. Holder” for purposes of this discussion if you are a beneficial owner of our Common Shares that is an individual, corporation, estate or trust that is not a U.S. Holder.

If a partnership (or an entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds our Common Shares, the tax treatment of a partner will generally depend upon the status of the partner and upon the activities of the partnership. A partner of a partnership considering the purchase of our Common Shares is encouraged to consult its own independent tax advisor.

You are encouraged to consult your own independent tax advisor regarding the U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. income and other tax consequences of purchasing, owning and disposing of our Common Shares in your particular circumstances.

U.S. Holders

Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules

A U.S. Holder generally will be subject to a special, adverse tax regime that would differ in certain respects from the tax treatment described below if we are, at any time during the U.S. Holder’s holding period with respect to our Common Shares, a passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”) for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

In general, we will be a PFIC for any taxable year if either (i) at least 75% of our gross income for the taxable year is “passive income” or (ii) at least 50% of the average value of all our assets (determined on the basis of a quarterly average) produce or are held for the production of passive income. For this purpose, passive

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income generally includes, among other things, dividends, interest, certain rents and royalties, annuities and gains from assets that produce passive income. If a foreign corporation owns at least 25% by value of the stock of another corporation, the foreign corporation is treated for purposes of the PFIC tests as owning its proportionate share of the assets of the other corporation, and as receiving directly its proportionate share of the other corporation’s income. Based on our operations described herein, all or a substantial portion of our income from offshore contract drilling services should be treated as services income and not as passive income, and thus all or a substantial portion of the assets that we own and operate in connection with the production of that income should not constitute passive assets, for purposes of determining whether we are a PFIC. However, this involves a facts and circumstances analysis and it is possible that the IRS would not agree with this conclusion.

We believe that we will not be a PFIC in the current taxable year and that we will not become a PFIC in any future taxable year. The determination of whether a corporation is a PFIC is made annually and thus may be subject to change. Therefore, we can give investors no assurance as to our PFIC status. U.S. Holders are encouraged to consult their own independent tax advisors about the PFIC rules, including the availability of certain elections. The remainder of this discussion assumes that we will not be a PFIC for the current taxable year or for any future taxable year.

Taxation of Dividends

Any distributions made with respect to our Common Shares (including amounts withheld on account of foreign taxes) will, to the extent made from current or accumulated earnings and profits as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles, constitute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes. To the extent that any distribution exceeds the amount of our current and accumulated earnings and profits, it will be treated as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the Common Shares, and thereafter as capital gain. Such dividends generally would be treated as foreign-source income for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes.

Dividends (including amounts withheld on account of foreign taxes) paid with respect to our Common Shares generally will be includible in the gross income of a U.S. Holder as ordinary income on the day on which the dividends are received by the U.S. Holder. A non-corporate U.S. Holder would be entitled to a preferential rate of U.S. federal income taxation (with the applicable rate based on the income and filing status of the U.S. Holder) with respect to any dividends paid on our Common Shares only if we are a “qualified foreign corporation.” We will be treated as a qualified foreign corporation if the Common Shares are readily tradable on an established securities market or if we are eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States. As our Common Shares will be traded on an established securities market we will be a qualified foreign corporation and therefore non-corporate U.S. Holders will be eligible for a preferential tax rate if the holders meet certain holding period and other requirements. A preferential tax rate will not apply to amounts that the U.S. Holder takes into account as “investment income,” which may be offset by investment expense. Dividends on our Common Shares will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction generally allowed to U.S. corporations under the Code. You are encouraged to consult your independent tax advisor regarding qualification for a preferential rate on dividend income and the rules related to investment income.

Subject to limitations under U.S. federal income tax law concerning credits or deductions for foreign taxes, a Luxembourg withholding tax imposed on dividends described above under “—Material Luxembourg Tax Considerations for Holders of Common Shares—Tax regime applicable to distributions—Luxembourg Withholding Tax” generally would be treated as a foreign income tax eligible for credit against a U.S. Holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability (or at a U.S. Holder’s election, may be deducted in computing taxable income if the U.S. Holder has elected to deduct all foreign income taxes for the taxable year). The rules with respect to foreign tax credits are complex and U.S. Holders are encouraged to consult their independent tax advisors regarding the availability of the foreign tax credit under their particular circumstances.

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Taxation of Capital Gains

Gain or loss realized by a U.S. Holder on the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of Common Shares will be subject to U.S. federal income taxation as capital gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized (including the gross amount of the proceeds before the deduction of any foreign tax) on the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition and such U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the Common Shares. The capital gains of a U.S. Holder that is an individual, estate or trust currently generally will be subject to a reduced rate of U.S. federal income tax (with the applicable rate based on the income and filing status of the U.S. Holder) if the holder’s holding period for the Common Shares exceeded one year as of the time of the disposition. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to certain limitations. Capital gain or loss, if any, realized by a U.S. Holder on the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of a Common Share generally will be treated as U.S. source income or loss for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes. Consequently, in the case of a disposition of a share that is subject to Luxembourg or other foreign income tax imposed on the gain, the U.S. Holder may not be able to benefit from the foreign tax credit for that foreign income tax (i.e., because gain on the disposition would be U.S. source). Alternatively, the U.S. Holder may take a deduction for the foreign income tax if such holder does not take a credit for any foreign income tax during the taxable year.

Reporting Requirements Regarding Foreign Financial Accounts

Certain U.S. holders who are individuals and who hold “specified foreign financial assets” (as defined in section 6038D of the Code) with values in excess of certain dollar thresholds, as prescribed by applicable U.S. Treasury regulations, are required to report such assets on IRS Form 8938 with their U.S. federal income tax returns. Specified foreign financial assets include stock of a non-U.S. corporation (such as our Common Shares) that is not held in an account maintained by a “financial institution” (as defined in section 1471(d)(5) of the Code). An individual who fails to timely furnish the required information may be subject to a penalty. Additionally, in the event a U.S. holder does not file the required information, the statute of limitations may not close until three years after such information is filed. Under certain circumstances, an entity may be treated as an individual for purposes of the foregoing rules. Investors are urged to consult your tax advisor regarding these reporting requirements and any other reporting requirements that may be applicable to your particular circumstances.

Additional Medicare Tax on Net Investment Income

For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2012, an additional 3.8% Medicare tax is imposed on the “net investment income” of certain United States citizens and resident aliens and on the undistributed “net investment income” of certain estates and trusts. Among other items, “net investment income” generally includes dividends and certain net gain from the disposition of property, less certain deductions. Investors are encouraged to consult your independent tax advisors with respect to this additional tax.

Non-U.S. Holders

Dividends

A Non-U.S. Holder generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on dividends received on our Common Shares, unless the dividends are effectively connected with the Holder’s conduct of a trade or business in the United States and, if required by an applicable income tax treaty, the dividends are attributable to a permanent establishment maintained by the Holder in the United States or unless the holder is subject to backup withholding, as discussed below. Except to the extent otherwise provided under an applicable income tax treaty, a Non-U.S. Holder generally will be taxed in the same manner as a U.S. Holder on dividends that are effectively connected with the Holder’s conduct of a trade or business in the United States. Effectively connected dividends received by a corporate Non-U.S. Holder may also, under certain circumstances, be subject to an additional “branch profits tax” at a 30% rate (or, if applicable, a lower treaty rate), subject to certain adjustments.

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Taxation of Capital Gains

In general, a Non-U.S. Holder of Common Shares will not be subject to U.S. federal income or withholding tax with respect to any gain recognized on a sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of such Common Shares unless:

• the gain is effectively connected with the Non-U.S. Holder’s conduct of a trade or business in the United States (and if required by an applicable income tax treaty, is also attributable to a permanent establishment that the Non-U.S. Holder maintains in the United States), in which case, the Non-U.S. Holder will generally be subject to regular graduated rates in the same manner as a U.S. Holder, and if the Non-U.S. Holder is a corporation, may be subject to a branch profits tax equal to 30% (or such lower rate provided by an applicable income tax treaty) of its effectively connected earnings and profits for the taxable year, subject to certain adjustments;

• the Non-U.S. Holder is an individual who is present in the United States for 183 or more days in the taxable year of the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition and meets certain other requirements, in which case the gain generally will be subject to a flat 30% tax that may be offset by U.S. source capital losses (even though the Non-U.S. Holder is not considered a resident of the United States); or

• the Non-U.S. Holder is subject to backup withholding, as discussed below.

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

In general, dividends on Common Shares, and the proceeds of a sale, exchange or other disposition of Common Shares for cash, paid within the United States or through certain U.S. related financial intermediaries to a U.S. Holder or a Non-U.S. Holder are subject to information reporting to the IRS and may be subject to backup withholding unless the holder is an exempt recipient, is an exempt foreign person or, in the case of backup withholding, provides an accurate taxpayer identification number and certifies under penalty of perjury that the holder is a United States person and is not subject to backup withholding.

Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Generally, a holder may obtain a refund of any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules that exceed such holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability by timely filing a refund claim with the IRS. The amount of any backup withholding withheld from a payment to a holder will be allowed as a credit against the holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, provided that the required information is timely furnished to the IRS. Holders are encouraged to consult their independent tax advisors regarding the application of information reporting and backup withholding in their particular situations, the availability of exemptions and the procedures for obtaining exemptions.

You are encouraged to consult with your own independent tax advisor regarding the application of the U.S. federal income tax laws to your particular circumstances, as well as any additional tax consequences resulting from an investment in our Common Shares, including the applicability and effect of the tax laws of any state, local or non-U.S. jurisdiction, including estate, gift and inheritance tax laws.

F. DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENTS

Not applicable.

G. STATEMENT BY EXPERTS

Not applicable.

H. DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY

We are required to file annual and special reports and other information with the SEC. You may read and copy any documents filed by the Company at the SEC’s public reference room at 100 F Street, N.E., Room 1580,

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Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference room. The SEC also maintains a website at http://www.sec.gov which contains reports and other information regarding registrants that file electronically with the SEC.

I. SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION

Not applicable.

ENFORCEABILITY OF CIVIL LIABILITIES

We are a public limited liability company incorporated under the laws of Luxembourg, and as a result, it may be difficult for investors to effect service of process within the United States upon us or to enforce both in the United States and outside the United States judgments against us obtained in U.S. courts in any action, including actions predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States. In addition, a majority of our directors are residents of jurisdictions other than the United States, and all or a substantial portion of the assets of those persons are or may be located outside the United States. As a result, it may be difficult for investors to effect service of process within the United States on certain of our directors or to enforce against them judgments obtained in U.S. courts, including judgments predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States.

There is uncertainty as to whether the courts of Luxembourg would (i) enforce judgments of U.S. courts obtained against us predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States or (ii) entertain original actions brought in Luxembourg courts against us predicated upon the federal securities laws of the United States.

We have been advised by our Luxembourg counsel that the United States and Luxembourg are not currently bound by a treaty providing for reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments, other than arbitral awards rendered in civil and commercial matters. According to such counsel, an enforceable judgment for the payment of monies rendered by any U.S. federal or state court based on civil liability, whether or not predicated solely upon the U.S. securities laws, would not directly be enforceable in Luxembourg. However, a party who received such favorable judgment in a U.S. court may initiate enforcement proceedings in Luxembourg ( exequatur ) by requesting enforcement of the U.S. judgment by the District Court (Tribunal d’Arrondissement) pursuant to Section 678 of the New Luxembourg Code of Civil Procedure. The District Court will authorize the enforcement in Luxembourg of the U.S. judgment if it is satisfied that all of the following conditions are met:

• the U.S. judgment is enforceable in the United States;

• the U.S. court awarding the judgment has jurisdiction to adjudicate the respective matter under applicable U.S. federal or state jurisdictions rules, and that jurisdiction is recognized by Luxembourg private international and local law;

• the U.S. court has applied to the dispute the substantive law which would have been applied by Luxembourg courts;

• the principles of natural justice have been complied with;

• the U.S. judgment does not contravene international public policy or order as understood under the laws of Luxembourg or has been given in proceedings of a criminal nature;

• the U.S. court has acted in accordance with its own procedural laws; and

• the U.S. judgment was granted following proceedings where the counterparty had the opportunity to appear, and if it appeared, to present a defense.

In practice, Luxembourg courts now tend not to review the merits of a foreign judgment, although there is no clear statutory prohibition of such review.

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ITEM 11.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to certain market risks arising from the use of financial instruments in the ordinary course of business. These risks arise primarily as a result of potential changes in the fair market value of financial instruments that would result from adverse fluctuations in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates as discussed below. We have entered, and in the future may enter, into derivative financial instrument transactions to manage or reduce market risk, but we do not enter into derivative financial instrument transactions for speculative or trading purposes.

Interest Rate Risk. We are exposed to changes in interest rates through our variable rate long-term debt. We use interest rate swaps to manage our exposure to interest rate risks. Interest rate swaps are used to convert floating rate debt obligations to a fixed rate in order to achieve an overall desired position of fixed and floating rate debt. As of December 31, 2012, our net exposure to floating interest rate fluctuations on our outstanding debt was $70.8 million, based on our total net interest bearing debt of $1,456 million less the $1,385 million notional principal of our floating to fixed interest rate swaps. A 1% increase or decrease to the overall variable interest rate charged to us would thus increase or decrease our interest expense by approximately $0.7 million on an annual basis as of December 31, 2012. As of December 31, 2011, our net exposure to floating interest rate fluctuations on our outstanding debt was $94.4 million, based on our total net interest bearing debt of $1,675.0 million less the $1,580.6 million notional principal of our floating to fixed interest rate swaps. A 1% increase or decrease to the overall variable interest rate charged to us would thus increase or decrease our interest expense by approximately $1.0 million on an annual basis as of December 31, 2011. Please read Item 5, “Liquidity and Capital Resources—Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.”

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk. We use the U.S. Dollar as our functional currency because the substantial majority of our revenues and expenses are denominated in U.S. Dollars. Accordingly, our reporting currency is also U.S. Dollars. However, there is a risk that currency fluctuations could have an adverse effect on us as we do earn revenue and incur expenses in other currencies. We utilize the payment structure of customer contracts to selectively reduce our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations in connection with monetary assets, liabilities and cash flows denominated in certain foreign currencies. Due to various factors, including customer acceptance, local banking laws, other statutory requirements, local currency convertibility and the impact of inflation on local costs, actual local currency needs may vary from those anticipated in the customer contracts, resulting in partial exposure to foreign exchange risk. Fluctuations in foreign currencies have not had a material impact on our overall operating results or financial condition.

ITEM 12.    DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

A. DEBT SECURITIES

Not applicable.

B. WARRANTS AND RIGHTS

Not applicable.

C. OTHER SECURITIES

Not applicable.

D. AMERICAN DEPOSITORY SHARES

Not applicable.

97

PART II

ITEM 13.    DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

None.

ITEM 14.    MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

None.

ITEM 15.    CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures

In accordance with Exchange Act Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15, our management, with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report have been designed and are effective at the reasonable assurance level so that the information required to be disclosed by us in our periodic SEC filings is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules, regulations and forms and have been accumulated and communicated to our management, including executive and financial officers, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.

(b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Controls over Financial Reporting

Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting for the Company as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company’s internal control system was designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and Board of Directors regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Internal control over financial reporting includes the controls themselves, monitoring (including internal auditing practices), and actions taken to correct deficiencies as identified.

There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, however well designed, including the possibility of human error and the possible circumvention or overriding of controls. The design of an internal control system is also based in part upon assumptions and judgments made by management about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that an internal control will be effective under all potential future conditions. As a result, even an effective system of internal controls can provide no more than reasonable assurance with respect to the fair presentation of financial statements and the processes under which they were prepared.

Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012. In making this assessment, management used the criteria for internal control over financial reporting described in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Management’s assessment included an evaluation of the design of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting and testing of the operating effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting.

Management reviewed the results of its assessment with the Audit Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors. Based on this assessment, management has concluded that, as of December 31, 2012, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective.

98

The Company’s independent auditors, KPMG LLP, a registered public accounting firm, are appointed by the Audit Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors. KPMG LLP has audited and reported on the consolidated financial statements of Pacific Drilling S.A. and Subsidiaries, and the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. The reports of the independent auditors are contained in this annual report.

(c) Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Report of KPMG LLP included in Item 18, “Financial Statements” of this annual report is incorporated herein by reference.

(d) Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in these internal controls during the period covered by this annual report that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.

ITEM 16.    RESERVED

ITEM 16A.    AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

Our Board of Directors has determined that Mr. Charney, Chairman of the Audit Committee, is an independent Director and is the Audit Committee Financial Expert. See Item 6, “Directors and Senior Management” for a description of Mr. Charney’s listing of relevant experience.

ITEM 16B.    CODE OF ETHICS

The Company has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics applicable to our employees, directors and officers that meets the standards of the NYSE. In addition, our Board of Directors has adopted a Financial Code of Ethics for our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Controller and other senior financial officers. Any changes to, or waiver from, the Financial Code of Ethics will be made only by the Board of Directors, or a committee thereof, and appropriate disclosure will be made promptly in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC and the NYSE.

We have posted a copy of our Financial Code of Ethics on our website at www.pacificdrilling.com.

ITEM 16C.    PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The following table sets forth the aggregate fees by categories specified below in connection with certain professional services rendered by KPMG LLP, an independent registered accounting firm and our principal external auditors, for the periods indicated.

	Years ended December 31,
	2012		2011
	(In thousands)
Audit fees(a)	$	1,400	$	1,375
Audit-related fees(b)		—		—
Tax fees(c)		—		—
All other fees(d)		—		—
Total	$	1,400	$	1,375

(a) Audit fees represent professional services rendered for the audit of our annual consolidated financial statements and services provided by the principal accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements.

99

(b) Audit-related fees consist of assurance and related services rendered by the principal accountant related to the performance of the audit or review of our consolidated financial statements, which have not been reported under audit fees above.

(c) Tax fees represent fees for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning.

(d) All other fees include services other than audit fees, audit-related fees and tax fees set forth above.

Audit Committee’s Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures

The Audit Committee’s primary responsibilities are to assist the Board of Directors’ oversight of: our accounting practices; the integrity of our financial statements; our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements; the qualifications, selection, independence and performance of our independent auditor; and the internal audit function. The Audit Committee has adopted in its charter a policy of pre-approval of audit and permissible non-audit services provided by its independent auditors.

Under the policy, the Audit Committee pre-approves all audit services to be provided to the Company, whether provided by the principal auditor or other firms, and all other services (review, attest and non-audit) to be provided to the Company by the independent auditor; provided, however, that de minimis non-audit services may instead be approved in accordance with applicable rules and regulations. All services provided by the principal external auditor for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 were approved by the Audit Committee pursuant to the pre-approval policy.

ITEM 16D.    EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

Not applicable.

ITEM 16E.    PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

Not applicable.

ITEM 16F.    CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

Not applicable.

ITEM 16G.    CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

We are a “foreign private issuer” under the securities laws of the United States and the rules of the NYSE. Under the NYSE rules, a “foreign private issuer” is subject to less stringent corporate governance requirements than a domestic issuer. Subject to certain exceptions, the rules of the NYSE permit a “foreign private issuer” to follow its home country practice in lieu of the listing requirements of the NYSE. The significant differences between our corporate governance practices and the NYSE standards applicable to listed U.S. companies are set forth below.

Executive Sessions. The NYSE requires that non-management directors meet regularly in executive sessions without management. The NYSE also requires that all independent directors meet in an executive session at least once a year. Our non-management directors have regularly held executive sessions without management.

Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee. The NYSE requires that a listed U.S. company have a nominating/corporate governance committee of independent directors and a committee charter specifying the purpose, duties and evaluation procedures of the committee. As permitted under Luxembourg law and our Articles, we do not currently have a nominating or corporate governance committee.

100

In addition, we have a shareholder that controls a majority of our outstanding common shares. As a result, we are a “controlled company” within the meaning of the NYSE corporate governance standards. Under the NYSE rules, a company of which more than 50% of the voting power is held by another company or group is a “controlled company” and may elect not to comply with certain NYSE corporate governance requirements, including (1) the requirement that a majority of the board of directors consist of independent directors, (2) the requirement that the compensation committee be composed entirely of independent directors and have a written charter addressing the committee’s purpose and responsibilities and (3) the requirement of an annual performance evaluation of the nominating and corporate governance and compensation committees.

ITEM 16H.    MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURE

Not Applicable.

PART III

ITEM 17.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

See Item 18.

ITEM 18.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Historical Consolidated Financial Statements

Pacific Drilling S.A. was formed as a Luxembourg corporation under the form of a société anonyme to act as an indirect holding company for our Predecessor. In connection with the Restructuring, our Predecessor was contributed to a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company by the Quantum Pacific Group. The Company did not engage in any business or other activities prior to the Restructuring except in connection with its formation and the Restructuring. The Restructuring was limited to entities that were all under the control of the Quantum Pacific Group and its affiliates, and, as such, the Restructuring was accounted for as a transaction between entities under common control. As a result, the consolidated financial statements of Pacific Drilling S.A. are presented using the historical values of the Predecessor’s financial statements on a combined basis prior to the Restructuring. However, the issued share capital of Pacific Drilling S.A. is retrospectively reflected for all periods to reflect the 150,000,000 common shares held by the Quantum Pacific Group at the completion of the Restructuring. The financial information relating to the Company and its subsidiaries have been prepared in accordance with GAAP and are in U.S. dollars.

Historical Parent-Only Financial Statements

Pacific Drilling S.A. is the parent-company of subsidiaries owning the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana, which act as Borrowers under the Project Facilities Agreement. Surplus cash held by these subsidiaries is restricted by the Project Facilities Agreement from transfer by intercompany loans and/or dividend payments to us. Rule 5-04 of Regulation S-X requires separate parent-only financial statements to be presented in Schedule I, “Condensed financial information of registrant,” when the restricted net assets of consolidated subsidiaries exceed 25 percent of consolidated net assets as of the end of the most recently completed fiscal year. Since the restricted net assets of the Borrowers exceeds 25 percent of Pacific Drilling S.A.’s consolidated net assets, this annual report also includes parent-only financial statements for Pacific Drilling S.A. pursuant to the requirements of Rule 5-04 of Regulation S-X. The financial statements of Pacific Drilling S.A. as of December 31, 2012 and 2011 and for the year ended December 31, 2012 and for the period from March 11, 2011 (inception) to December 31, 2011, including the applicable notes thereto, have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP and are presented in U.S. dollars.

101

The following financial statements listed below are filed as part of this annual report on Form 20-F:

Pacific Drilling S.A.

Consolidated Financial Statements
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm	F-1
Consolidated Statements of Operations	F-3
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)	F-4
Consolidated Balance Sheets	F-5
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity	F-6
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows	F-7
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements	F-8
Schedule I—Condensed Financial Information of Pacific Drilling S.A. (Parent Only):
Statement of Operations	F-34
Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss)	F-35
Balance Sheet	F-36
Statement of Cash Flows	F-37

ITEM 19.    EXHIBITS

Exhibit Number	Description
1.1	Articles of Association of Pacific Drilling S.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1, File No. 333-177774).
1.2	Form of Amended and Restated Articles of Association of Pacific Drilling S.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1, File No. 333-177774).
2(a)(1)	Registration Rights Agreement between Pacific Drilling S.A. and Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited, dated November 16, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2(a)(1) to our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed March 27, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
2(b)(1)	Bond Agreement, dated February 23, 2012, between Pacific Drilling S.A. and Norsk Tillitsmann ASA (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 2(b)(1) to our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed March 27, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
2(b)(2)	Indenture, dated as of November 28, 2012, among Pacific Drilling V Limited, Pacific Drilling S.A. and each subsidiary guarantor from time to time party thereto, as guarantors, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee and Collateral Agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to our Report on Form 6-K, filed December 5, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
2(b)(3)	Form of Note (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.2 to our Report on Form 6-K, filed December 5, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.1	Amendment and Restatement Agreement in Respect of the Project Facilities Agreement and the Intercreditor Agreement, dated March 30, 2011, among Pacific Bora Ltd., Pacific Mistral Ltd., Pacific Scirocco Ltd. and Pacific Santa Ana Ltd., as Borrowers, Pacific Drilling Limited, as Guarantor, and the arrangers, lenders and agents named therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1, File No. 333-177774).
4.2	Second Amendment and Restatement Agreement in Respect of the Project Facilities Agreement and the Intercreditor Agreement, dated March 30, 2012, among Pacific Bora Ltd., Pacific Mistral Ltd., Pacific Scirocco Ltd., as the Borrowers, Pacific Santa Ana Ltd., as the Resigning Borrower, Pacific Drilling Limited, as Guarantor, Pacific Santa Ana S.à.r.l., as the Acceding Borrower and the arrangers, lenders and agents named therein (incorporated by reference to the Report on Form 6-K, filed May 31, 2012, File No. 001-35345).

102

Exhibit Number	Description
4.3	Third Amendment and Restatement Agreement in Respect of the Project Facilities Agreement and the Intercreditor Agreement, dated April 19, 2012, among Pacific Bora Ltd., Pacific Mistral Ltd., Pacific Scirocco Ltd., and Pacific Santa Ana S.à.r.l., as the Borrowers, Pacific Drilling Limited, as Guarantor, Pacific Bora Ltd., Pacific Scirocco Ltd., Pacific Drilling Limited, Pacific International Drilling West Africa Limited, Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited, and Pacific Drilling S.A., as the TI Bond Facility Obligors and the arrangers, lenders and agents named therein (incorporated by reference to the Report on Form 6-K, filed May 31, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.4	Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement for Standby Letter of Credit, dated as of April 19, 2012, among Pacific Scirocco Ltd., Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited, Pacific Drilling Limited and Pacific Drilling S.A. and the arrangers, lenders and agents named therein (incorporated by reference to the Report on Form 6-K, filed May 31, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.5	Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement for Standby Letter of Credit, dated as of April 19, 2012, among Pacific Bora Ltd., Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited, Pacific Drilling Limited and Pacific Drilling S.A. and the arrangers, lenders and agents named therein (incorporated by reference to the Report on Form 6-K, filed May 31, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.6	Termination Agreement, dated as of April 19, 2012, among Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited, Pacific Drilling S.A and Citibank N.A. (incorporated by reference to the Report on Form 6-K, filed May 31, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.7	Termination Agreement, dated as of April 19, 2012, among Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited, Quantum Pacific International Limited and Citibank N.A (incorporated by reference to the Report on Form 6-K, filed May 31, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.8	Termination Agreement, dated as of April 24, 2012, among Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited and Standard Chartered Bank (incorporated by reference to the Report on Form 6-K, filed May 31, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.9	Agreement for Standby Letter of Credit, dated as of July 7, 2011, between Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited and Citibank, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1, File No. 333-177774).
4.10	Guaranty, dated as of July 7, 2011, by Quantum Pacific International Limited, as guarantor, in favor of Citigroup Inc. and each subsidiary or affiliate thereof (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1, File No. 333-177774).
4.11	Pledge Agreement, dated as of June 27, 2011, between Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited, as pledgor, and Citibank, N.A. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1, File No. 333-177774).
4.12	Pacific Drilling S.A. 2011 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to our Registration Statement on Form F-1, File No. 333-177774).
4.13	Agreement for Standby Letter of Credit, dated as of November 29, 2011, between Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited and Citibank, N.A (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed March 27, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.14	Guaranty, dated as of November 29, 2011, by Pacific Drilling S.A., as guarantor, in favor of Citigroup Inc. and each subsidiary or affiliate thereof (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed March 27, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.15	Pledge Agreement, dated as of November 29, 2011, between Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited, as pledgor, and Citibank, N.A., as amended by that letter agreement dated as of December 9, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed March 27, 2012, File No. 001-35345).

103

Exhibit Number	Description
4.16	Letter of Credit Reimbursement Agreement, dated as of December 6, 2011, between Pacific International West Africa Limited and Standard Chartered Bank (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.9 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed March 27, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.17	Assignment of Cash Collateral Account, dated as of December 6, 2011, between Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited and Standard Chartered Bank (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed March 27, 2012, File No. 001-35345).
4.18*	Second Amendment Agreement in Respect of the Project Facilities Agreement, dated December 28, 2012, among Pacific Bora Ltd., Pacific Mistral Ltd., Pacific Scirocco Ltd., and Pacific Santa Ana S.à.r.l., as the Borrowers, Pacific Drilling Limited, as Guarantor, Pacific International Drilling West Africa Limited, Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited and the arrangers, lenders and agents named therein.
4.19	Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement, dated as of February 19, 2013, among Pacific Sharav S.à.r.l. and Pacific Drilling VII Limited, as Borrowers, Pacific Drilling S.A., as Guarantor, and the arrangers, lenders and agents named therein (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to the Report on Form 6-K, filed February 25, 2013, File No. 001-35345).
8.1*	Subsidiaries of Pacific Drilling S.A.
12.1*	Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer.
12.2*	Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer.
13.1*	Certificate of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
13.2*	Certificate of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
15.1*	Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
101.INS**	XBRL Instance Document.
101.SCH**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document.
101.CAL**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document.
101.DEF**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document.
101.LAB**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document.
101.PRE**	XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document.

* Filed herewith.

** XBRL Furnished herewith.

104

SIGNATURES

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

	PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.
	By:	/S/    CHRISTIAN J. BECKETT
	Name:	Christian J. Beckett
	Title:	Chief Executive Officer
Date: February 28, 2013

105

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Pacific Drilling S.A.:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Pacific Drilling S.A. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2012. In connection with our audits of the consolidated financial statements, we also have audited Schedule I – Condensed Financial Information of Pacific Drilling S.A. (Parent Only) (Schedule I). These consolidated financial statements and Schedule I are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and Schedule I based on our audits. We did not audit the financial statements of Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc. (TPDI – a 50% owned unconsolidated investee company). The Company’s investment in TPDI at December 31, 2011 was $0, and its equity in earnings of TPDI was $18,955,000 and $56,307,000 for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The financial statements of TPDI were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for TPDI, is based solely on the report of other auditors.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Pacific Drilling S.A. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2012, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also in our opinion, the related Schedule I, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated February 28, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Houston, Texas

February 28, 2013

F-1

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Pacific Drilling S.A.:

We have audited Pacific Drilling S.A. and subsidiaries’ (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Controls over Financial Reporting in Item 15b of Form 20-F. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Pacific Drilling S.A. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2012, and our report dated February 28, 2013 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Houston, Texas

February 28, 2013

F-2

PACIFIC DRILLING S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Operations

(in thousands, except share and per share information)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Revenues
Contract drilling	$	638,050		$	65,431		$	—
Costs and expenses
Contract drilling		(331,495	)		(32,142	)		—
General and administrative expenses		(45,386	)		(52,614	)		(19,715	)
Depreciation expense		(127,698	)		(11,619	)		(395	)
		(504,579	)		(96,375	)		(20,110	)
Loss of hire insurance recovery		23,671			18,500			—
Operating income (loss)		157,142			(12,444	)		(20,110	)
Other income (expense)
Equity in earnings of Joint Venture		—			18,955			56,307
Interest income from Joint Venture		—			495			1,973
Interest expense		(104,685	)		(10,384	)		(858	)
Other income		3,245			3,675			(62	)
Income before income taxes		55,702			297			37,250
Income tax (expense) benefit		(21,713	)		(3,200	)		49
Net income (loss)	$	33,989		$	(2,903	)	$	37,299
Earnings (loss) per common share, basic (Note 18)	$	0.16		$	(0.01	)	$	0.25
Weighted average number of common shares, basic (Note 18)		216,901,000			195,447,944			150,000,000
Earnings (loss) per common share, diluted (Note 18)	$	0.16		$	(0.01	)	$	0.25
Weighted average number of common shares, diluted (Note 18)		216,903,159			195,447,944			150,000,000

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-3

PACIFIC DRILLING S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

(in thousands)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Net income (loss)	$	33,989		$	(2,903	)	$	37,299
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrecognized gain (loss) on Joint Venture derivative instruments		—			720			(28,990	)
Reclassification adjustment for loss on Joint Venture derivative instruments realized in net income		—			2,996			11,540
		—			3,716			(17,450	)
Unrecognized loss on derivative instruments		(22,551	)		(62,086	)		—
Reclassification adjustment for loss on derivative instruments realized in net income		24,419			1,802			—
		1,868			(60,284	)		—
Total other comprehensive income (loss)		1,868			(56,568	)		(17,450	)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	35,857		$	(59,471	)	$	19,849

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-4

PACIFIC DRILLING S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except par value and share amounts)

	December 31, 2012			December 31, 2011
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	605,921		$	107,278
Restricted cash		47,444			168,681
Accounts receivable		152,299			62,578
Materials and supplies		49,626			42,986
Deferred financing costs		17,707			15,124
Current portion of deferred mobilization costs		37,519			54,523
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		13,930			10,376
Total current assets		924,446			461,546
Property and equipment, net		3,760,421			3,436,010
Restricted cash		124,740			208,287
Deferred financing costs		32,157			32,386
Other assets		52,164			46,060
Total assets	$	4,893,928		$	4,184,289
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:
Accounts payable	$	30,230		$	26,845
Accrued expenses		39,345			39,095
Current portion of long-term debt		218,750			218,750
Accrued interest payable		29,594			12,099
Derivative liabilities, current		17,995			20,466
Current portion of deferred revenue		66,142			28,829
Total current liabilities		402,056			346,084
Long-term debt, net of current maturities		2,034,958			1,456,250
Deferred revenue		97,014			73,110
Other long-term liabilities		44,652			34,772
Total long-term liabilities		2,176,624			1,564,132
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders’ equity:
Common shares, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000,000 shares authorized, 224,100,000 shares issued and 216,902,000 and 216,900,000 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively		2,169			2,169
Additional paid-in capital		2,349,544			2,344,226
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(58,416	)		(60,284	)
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)		21,951			(12,038	)
Total shareholders’ equity		2,315,248			2,274,073
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	4,893,928		$	4,184,289

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-5

PACIFIC DRILLING S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity

(in thousands, except share amounts)

	Common shares				Treasury Shares			Additional paid-in capital			Accumulated other comprehensive loss			Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)			Total equity
	Shares		Amount
Balance at December 31, 2009		805,000	$	1		—		$	150,000		$	3,992		$	53,756		$	207,749
Contribution from shareholder		—		—		—			655,000			—			—			655,000
Issuance of shares upon conversion of related-party loan		1,115,761		1		—			892,608			—			—			892,609
Other comprehensive loss		—		—		—			—			(17,450	)		—			(17,450	)
Net income		—		—		—			—			—			37,299			37,299
Balance at December 31, 2010		1,920,761		2		—			1,697,608			(13,458	)		91,055			1,775,207
Restructuring share issuance, net		148,079,239		1,498		—			(1,498	)		—			—			—
Issuance of common shares, net		66,900,000		669		—			625,147			—			—			625,816
Issuance of common shares to treasury		—		—		7,200,000			—			—			—			—
Contribution from shareholder		—		—		—			142,759			—			—			142,759
Other comprehensive income from Joint Venture		—		—		—			—			3,716			—			3,716
Net income prior to Joint Venture interest assignment		—		—		—			—			—			9,135			9,135
Joint Venture interests assigned to shareholder		—		—		—			(124,920	)		9,742			(100,190	)		(215,368	)
Share-based compensation liability modification		—		—		—			2,290			—			—			2,290
Share-based compensation		—		—		—			2,840			—			—			2,840
Other comprehensive loss		—		—		—			—			(60,284	)		—			(60,284	)
Net loss subsequent to Joint Venture interest assignment		—		—		—			—			—			(12,038	)		(12,038	)
Balance at December 31, 2011		216,900,000		2,169		7,200,000			2,344,226			(60,284	)		(12,038	)		2,274,073
Shares issued under share-based compensation plans		2,000		—		(2,000	)		—			—			—			—
Share-based compensation		—		—		—			5,318			—			—			5,318
Other comprehensive loss		—		—		—			—			1,868			—			1,868
Net income		—		—		—			—			—			33,989			33,989
Balance at December 31, 2012		216,902,000	$	2,169		7,198,000		$	2,349,544		$	(58,416	)	$	21,951		$	2,315,248

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-6

PACIFIC DRILLING S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Cash flow from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$	33,989		$	(2,903	)	$	37,299
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Interest income from Joint Venture		—			(495	)		(1,973	)
Depreciation expense		127,698			11,619			395
Equity in earnings of Joint Venture		—			(18,955	)		(56,307	)
Amortization of deferred revenue		(95,750	)		(8,566	)		—
Amortization of deferred mobilization costs		70,660			4,288			—
Amortization of deferred financing costs		13,926			1,067			—
Deferred income taxes		(3,766	)		(3,169	)		(371	)
Share-based compensation expense		5,318			4,471			65
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable		(89,721	)		(45,051	)		(17,527	)
Materials and supplies		(6,640	)		(35,031	)		(7,955	)
Prepaid expenses and other assets		(61,548	)		(108,593	)		(2,972	)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses		33,865			39,437			6,252
Deferred revenue		156,967			97,550			12,955
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities		184,998			(64,331	)		(30,139	)
Cash flow from investing activities:
Capital expenditures		(449,951	)		(1,539,630	)		(883,853	)
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash		204,784			(315,286	)		(60,967	)
Net cash used in investing activities		(245,167	)		(1,854,916	)		(944,820	)
Cash flow from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common shares, net		—			625,816			—
Proceeds from long-term debt		797,415			1,275,000			450,000
Payments on long-term debt		(218,750	)		(50,000	)		—
Deferred financing costs		(19,853	)		(6,803	)		(57,995	)
Proceeds from related-party loan		—			142,205			685,280
Payments on related-party loan		—			—			(69,444	)
Net cash provided by financing activities		558,812			1,986,218			1,007,841
Increase in cash and cash equivalents		498,643			66,971			32,882
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		107,278			40,307			7,425
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	605,921		$	107,278		$	40,307

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

F-7

PACIFIC DRILLING S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 1—Nature of Business

Pacific Drilling S.A. and its subsidiaries (“Pacific Drilling,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”) is an international offshore drilling company committed to becoming the preferred provider of ultra-deepwater drilling services to the oil and natural gas industry through the use of high-specification rigs. Our primary business is to contract our ultra-deepwater rigs, related equipment and work crews, primarily on a dayrate basis, to drill wells for our customers. As of December 31, 2012, the Company operates four drillships under customer contract and has three drillships under construction at Samsung Heavy Industries (“SHI”), two of which are under customer contract.

Pacific Drilling S.A. was formed on March 11, 2011, as a Luxembourg corporation under the form of a société anonyme to act as an indirect holding company for its predecessor, Pacific Drilling Limited (our “Predecessor”), a company organized under the laws of Liberia, and its subsidiaries in connection with a corporate reorganization completed on March 30, 2011, referred to as the “Restructuring.” In connection with the Restructuring, our Predecessor was contributed to a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company by a subsidiary of Quantum Pacific International Limited, a British Virgin Islands company and parent company of an investment holdings group (the “Quantum Pacific Group”). The Company did not engage in any business or other activities prior to the Restructuring except in connection with its formation and the Restructuring.

In 2007, our Predecessor entered into various agreements with Transocean Ltd. (“Transocean”) and its subsidiaries, which culminated in the formation of a joint venture company, Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc. (“TPDI” or the “Joint Venture”), which was owned 50% by our Predecessor and 50% by a subsidiary of Transocean. On March 30, 2011, in connection with the Restructuring, our Predecessor assigned its equity interest in TPDI to another subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group, which is referred to as the “TPDI Transfer,” to enable the Company to focus on the operation and marketing of the Company’s wholly-owned fleet. As a result, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries owned any interest in TPDI following March 30, 2011.

Note 2—Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Pacific Drilling S.A. and consolidated subsidiaries that we control by ownership of a majority voting interest. We apply the equity method of accounting for investments in entities when we have the ability to exercise significant influence over an entity that does not meet the variable entity criteria or meets the variable interest entity criteria, but for which we are not deemed to be the primary beneficiary. We eliminate all intercompany transactions and balances in consolidation.

The Restructuring was a business combination limited to entities that were all under the control of the Quantum Pacific Group and its affiliates, and, as such, the Restructuring was accounted for as a transaction between entities under common control. Accordingly, the consolidated financial statements of Pacific Drilling S.A. as of and for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 are presented using the historical values of the Predecessor’s financial statements on a combined basis prior to the Restructuring. The financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 present the results of the Company and its subsidiaries as if Pacific Drilling S.A. was formed and the Restructuring was completed on January 1, 2010.

We currently are party to a Nigerian joint venture, Pacific International Drilling West Africa Limited (“PIDWAL”), which is fully controlled and 90% owned by us with 10% owned by Derotech Offshore Services Limited (“Derotech”), a privately-held Nigerian registered limited liability company. Derotech will not accrue the economic benefits of its interest in PIDWAL unless and until it satisfies certain outstanding obligations to us

F-8

and a certain pledge is cancelled by us. Accordingly, we consolidate all PIDWAL interests and no portion of PIDWAL’s operating results is allocated to the noncontrolling interests. In addition to the joint venture agreement, we currently have marketing and logistic services agreements with Derotech and an affiliated company of Derotech. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we incurred fees of $7.0 million, $3.1 million and $0.2 million under the marketing and logistic services agreements, respectively.

Accounting Estimates—The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the balance sheet date and the amounts of revenues and expenses recognized during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions, including those related to allowance for doubtful accounts, financial instruments, depreciation of property and equipment, impairment of long-lived assets, income taxes, share-based compensation and contingencies. We base our estimates and assumptions on historical experience and on various other factors we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from such estimates.

Revenues and Operating Expenses—Contract drilling revenues are recognized as earned, based on contractual dayrates. In connection with drilling contracts, we may receive revenues for preparation and mobilization of equipment and personnel or for capital improvements to rigs. Revenues earned and incremental costs incurred directly related to contract preparation and mobilization along with reimbursements received for capital expenditures are deferred and recognized over the primary term of the drilling contract. The actual cost incurred for reimbursed capital expenditures are depreciated over the estimated useful life of the asset. Amortization of deferred revenue and deferred mobilization costs are recorded on a straight-line basis over the primary drilling contract term, which is consistent with the general pace of activity, level of services being provided and dayrates being earned over the life of the contract. Upon completion of drilling contracts, any demobilization fees received and related expenses are reported in income.

Cash and Cash Equivalents—Cash equivalents are highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash.

Accounts Receivable—We record trade accounts receivable at the amount we invoice our customers.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts—We provide an allowance for doubtful accounts, as necessary, based on a review of outstanding receivables, historical collection information and existing economic conditions. We do not generally require collateral or other security for receivables. We have no allowance for doubtful accounts as of December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Promissory Notes to Joint Venture—Contributions in the form of promissory notes to the Joint Venture were recorded at cost. The accrued interest on promissory notes from our Joint Venture was recorded at the amount due. Interest income from the Joint Venture was earned on the promissory notes based on the stated loan rates as discussed in Note 4.

Materials and Supplies—Materials and supplies held for consumption are carried at the lower of average cost or market. We recorded no allowance for obsolescence on materials and supplies as of December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Property and Equipment—Deepwater drillships are recorded at cost of construction, including any major capital improvements, less accumulated depreciation and impairment. Other property and equipment is recorded at cost and consists of purchased software systems, furniture, fixtures and other equipment. Planned major maintenance, ongoing maintenance, routine repairs and minor replacements are expensed as incurred.

F-9

Interest is capitalized based on the costs of new borrowings attributable to qualifying new construction or at the weighted average cost of debt outstanding during the period of construction. We capitalize interest costs for qualifying new construction from the point borrowing costs are incurred for the qualifying new construction and cease when substantially all the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use are complete.

Property and equipment are depreciated to its salvage value on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of each class of assets. Our estimated useful lives of property and equipment are as follows:

	Years
Drillships and related equipment	15-35
Other property and equipment	2-7

Long-Lived Assets—We review our long-lived assets, including property and equipment, for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of our assets held and used may not be recoverable. Potential impairment indicators include rapid declines in commodity prices and related market conditions, actual or expected declines in rig utilization, increases in idle time, cancellations of contracts or credit concerns of customers. We assess impairment using estimated undiscounted cash flows for the long-lived assets being evaluated by applying assumptions regarding future operations, market conditions, dayrates, utilization and idle time. An impairment loss is recorded in the period if the carrying amount of the asset is not recoverable. During 2012, 2011 and 2010, there were no long-lived asset impairments.

Investment Accounted for Using the Equity Method—Our 50% ownership in TPDI was accounted for using the equity method based upon the level of ownership and our ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of the investee. The investment was adjusted periodically to recognize our proportionate share of the investee’s net income or losses after the date of investment. The Company evaluates its investment accounted for under the equity method for impairment when there was evidence or indicators that a decrease in value may be other than temporary. On March 30, 2011, our Predecessor assigned its equity interest in TPDI to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group (Note 9).

Deferred Financing Costs—Deferred financing costs associated with long-term debt are carried at cost and are amortized to expense using the effective interest rate method over the term of the applicable long-term debt.

Foreign Currency Transactions—The consolidated financial statements are stated in U.S. dollars. We have designated the U.S. dollar as the functional currency for our foreign subsidiaries in international locations because we contract with customers, purchase equipment and finance capital using the U.S. dollar. Transactions in other currencies have been translated into U.S. dollars at the rate of exchange on the transaction date. Any gain or loss arising from a change in exchange rates subsequent to the transaction date is included as an exchange gain or loss. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars are reported at the rates of exchange prevailing at the end of the reporting period. During 2012 and 2011, total foreign exchange gains were $2.4 million and $1.4 million, respectively, and recorded in other income within our consolidated statements of operations. During 2010, total foreign exchange gains (losses) were nominal.

Earnings per Share—Basic earnings (loss) per common share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing the net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Basic and diluted EPS are retrospectively adjusted for the effects of stock dividends or stock splits. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution from securities that could share in the earnings of the Company. Anti-dilutive securities are excluded from diluted EPS.

Fair Value Measurements—We estimate fair value at the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants in the principal market for the asset or liability. Our valuation techniques require inputs that are categorized using a three-level hierarchy as

F-10

follows: (1) unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets (“Level 1”), (2) direct or indirect observable inputs, including quoted prices or other market data, for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or identical assets or liabilities in less active markets (“Level 2”) and (3) unobservable inputs that require significant judgment for which there is little or no market data (“Level 3”). When multiple input levels are required for a valuation, we categorize the entire fair value measurement according to the lowest level input that is significant to the measurement even though we may have also utilized significant inputs that are more readily observable.

Share-Based Compensation—The grant date fair value of share-based awards granted to employees is recognized as an employee compensation expense over the requisite service period on a straight-line basis. To the extent the share-based awards were to be settled in cash upon exercise, the awards were accounted for as a liability. The liability was remeasured at each reporting date and at settlement date. Any changes in the fair value of the liability are recognized as employee compensation expense in the current period. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company has no awards accounted for as liabilities. The amount of compensation expense recognized is adjusted to reflect the number of awards for which the related vesting conditions are expected to be met. As such, the amount of compensation expense ultimately recognized is based on the number of awards that do meet the vesting conditions at the vesting date.

Derivatives—We apply cash flow hedge accounting to interest rate swaps that are designated as hedges of the variability of future cash flows. The derivative financial instruments are recorded in our consolidated balance sheet at fair value as either assets or liabilities. Changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, to the extent the hedge is effective, are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings.

Hedge effectiveness is measured on an ongoing basis to ensure the validity of the hedges based on the relative cumulative changes in fair value between the derivative contract and the hedged item over time. Any change in fair value resulting from ineffectiveness is recognized immediately in earnings. Hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively if it is determined that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the hedged item.

For interest rate hedges related to interest not incurred to construct fixed assets, other comprehensive income is released to earnings as interest expense is accrued on the underlying debt. For interest rate hedges related to interest capitalized in the construction of fixed assets, other comprehensive income is released to earnings as the asset is depreciated over its useful life.

Contingencies—We record liabilities for estimated loss contingencies when we believe a loss is probable and the amount of the probable loss can be reasonably estimated. Once established, we adjust the estimated contingency loss accrual for changes in facts and circumstances that alter our previous assumptions with respect to the likelihood or amount of loss.

We recognize loss of hire insurance recovery once realized or contingencies related to the realizability of the amount earned are resolved.

Income Taxes—Income taxes are provided based upon the tax laws and rates in the countries in which our subsidiaries are registered and where their operations are conducted and income and expenses are earned and incurred, respectively. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the anticipated future tax effects of temporary differences between the financial statement basis and the tax basis of our assets and liabilities using the applicable enacted tax rates in effect the year in which the asset is realized or the liability is settled. A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is established when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

We recognize tax benefits from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. The

F-11

amount recognized is the largest benefit that we believe has greater than a 50% likelihood of being realized upon settlement. Actual income taxes paid may vary from estimates depending upon changes in income tax laws, actual results of operations and the final audit of tax returns by taxing authorities. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

Subsequent Events—We have evaluated subsequent events through the date the financial statements were issued. See Note 21.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures—In May 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that changes the wording used to describe many of the requirements in GAAP for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements. Some of the amendments included in this update are intended to clarify the application of existing fair value measurement requirements. We adopted the accounting standards update effective January 1, 2012 with no material impact to our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Presentation of Comprehensive Income—In June and December 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update on the presentation of comprehensive income. This guidance eliminates a previously permitted option to report other comprehensive income and its components in the statement of changes in equity. We adopted the effective portions of the FASB accounting standards update on January 1, 2012 with no material impact on our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

In February 2013, the FASB issued an accounting standards update on the reporting of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. This guidance requires an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the financial statements or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income, but only if the amount reclassified is required to be reclassified in its entirety in the same reporting period. For amounts that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures that provide additional details about those amounts. The accounting standards update is effective for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2013. We are evaluating the impacts that our adoption of this update will have on our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Balance Sheet Offsetting—In December 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that expands the disclosure requirements for the offsetting of assets and liabilities related to certain financial instruments and derivative instruments. The update requires disclosures of gross and net information for financial instruments and derivative instruments that are eligible for net presentation due to a right of offset, an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement. The accounting standards update is effective for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2013. We do not expect that our adoption of this update will have a material effect on our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Note 3—Property and Equipment

Property and equipment consists of the following as of:

	December 31,
	2012			2011
	(In thousands)
Drillships and related equipment	$	3,892,623		$	3,435,665
Other property and equipment		7,025			12,441
Property and equipment, cost		3,899,648			3,448,106
Accumulated depreciation		(139,227	)		(12,096	)
Property and equipment, net	$	3,760,421		$	3,436,010

F-12

On March 15, 2011, we entered into two contracts with SHI for the construction of our fifth and sixth new advanced-capability, ultra-deepwater drillships, the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav, which are expected to be delivered to us at the shipyard in the second quarter and fourth quarter of 2013, respectively. On March 16, 2012, we entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of the Pacific Meltem, our seventh advanced-capability, ultra-deepwater drillship, which is expected to be delivered to us at the shipyard in the second quarter of 2014. The construction contract for the Pacific Meltem also includes an option for an eighth newbuild drillship on the same terms and conditions as those for the Pacific Meltem. The option was originally valid until June 15, 2012 and was subsequently extended through January 18, 2013 at no cost. In January 2013, we exercised our option and entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of our eighth drillship, which is expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2015 (see Note 21).

The SHI contracts for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem provide for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $1.5 billion for the acquisition of these three vessels, payable in installments during the construction process, of which we have made payments of $374.3 million through December 31, 2012. We anticipate making payments of approximately $797.3 million in 2013 and approximately $329.8 million in 2014.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we capitalized interest costs of $33.2 million, $71.0 million and $99.0 million, respectively, on assets under construction.

Note 4—Investment In and Notes Receivable from Joint Venture

A legal entity is a variable interest entity (“VIE”) if the entity’s equity investment at risk does not provide its holders, as a group, with the power through voting or similar rights to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance. We are required to consolidate VIEs if we have the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and the obligation to absorb losses of the entity or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. If these conditions are met, we have a controlling financial interest and are the primary beneficiary of the VIE.

Once an entity is identified as a VIE, we perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether we are the primary beneficiary. A qualitative assessment begins with an understanding of nature of the risks in the entity as well as the nature of the entity’s activities, including terms of the contracts entered into by the entity, ownership interests issued by the entity, how they were marketed and the parties involved in the design of the entity. We then identify all of the variable interests held by parties involved with the VIE including, among other things, equity investments, debt financing, any financial and performance guarantees and significant contracted service providers. Once we identify the variable interests, we determine those activities that are most significant to the economic performance of the entity and which variable interest holder has the power to direct those activities.

Our Predecessor owned a 50% interest in TPDI that was recorded in our consolidated financial statements through the date of assignment to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group on March 30, 2011. The TPDI Joint Venture was formed with Transocean Offshore International Ventures Limited (“TOIVL”) to construct, own, and operate or charter two deepwater drillships, named the Dhirubai Deepwater KG1 (“KG1”) and Dhirubai Deepwater KG2 (“KG2”). Until the formation of the Joint Venture in 2007, both drillships under construction were owned by Pacific Drilling. KG1 started operating in July 2009 and KG2 started operating in March 2010.

The Joint Venture Shareholder Agreement defined the rights and restrictions with respect to the governance and management of TPDI. Among other things, the Joint Venture Shareholder Agreement provided that TOIVL may provide certain incidental general and administrative functions on behalf of TPDI, including procurement and payables, treasury and cash management, personnel and payroll and accounting. At inception, the Joint Venture Shareholders also entered into construction management agreements that provided TOIVL would design, construct, equip and test the TPDI deepwater drillships.

F-13

The Joint Venture Shareholders entered into a marketing agreement with TOIVL that granted TOIVL an exclusive right to market the TPDI deepwater drillships for use in any territory or region. The Joint Venture Shareholders also entered into an operating agreement with TOIVL that appointed TOIVL to act as the operator of the TPDI deepwater drillships, including day-to-day management and supervision and operating, maintenance, administrative and related services.

The Joint Venture Shareholder Agreement required Joint Venture Shareholders each provide capital or loans to the Company, to the extent expenditures were not funded by third-party indebtedness, in proportion to their respective ownership percentages to fund (1) all expenditures required to be made under various management service agreements, (2) any performance guarantees, surety bonds, or letters of credit, (3) an adequate level of working capital for the Company and (4) additional requirements agreed to by the Joint Venture Shareholders.

The Joint Venture Shareholders entered into an agreement under which Pacific Drilling, beginning on October 18, 2010, had the right to exchange its interest in the Joint Venture for shares of Transocean Ltd. or cash at a purchase price based on an appraisal of the fair value of the KG1 and KG2, subject to various customary adjustments.

We determined that the Joint Venture met the criteria of a VIE as TPDI’s equity investment at risk was not sufficient for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support. We also determined that Transocean was the primary beneficiary for accounting purposes since Transocean a) had the power to direct the marketing and operating activities, which were the activities that most significantly impact TPDI’s economic performance and b) had the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIE. As a result, we accounted for TPDI as an equity method investment in our consolidated financial statements.

At inception, the Joint Venture shareholders entered into promissory note agreements with TPDI to fund the formation of the Joint Venture. The promissory notes accrued interest at LIBOR plus 2% per annum with semi-annual interest payments. The Joint Venture, upon providing written notice, was permitted to defer payment of interest (including any prior deferred interest) to the following interest payment date. During 2011 and 2010, the Joint Venture elected to defer interest payments due under the promissory notes.

The loans were scheduled to mature ten years after the date of the respective notes. The Joint Venture, upon providing written notice, was permitted to defer the maturity date for a period of up to ten years. The Joint Venture was not required to make any payments of principal or interest prior to the maturity date. The Joint Venture capitalized interest expense on the Shareholder promissory notes as a cost of property and equipment through the date the deepwater drillships were placed in service.

During 2009, the Joint Venture entered into interest rate swaps, which are designated as cash flow hedges of the future interest payments on variable rate borrowings under its bank credit facilities to reduce the variability of cash interest payments. During the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, Pacific Drilling reclassified $3.0 million and $11.5 million, respectively, of losses previously recognized as accumulated other comprehensive income to equity in earnings of Joint Venture. The Joint Venture recognizes gains and losses associated with the ineffective portion of the cash flow hedges in interest expense in the period in which they are realized. During the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Joint Venture recorded ineffectiveness gains (losses) of $0.6 million and $(0.3) million, respectively, to interest expense.

In April 2010, Transocean and Pacific Drilling entered into a letter of credit fee agreement whereby Transocean agreed to provide a letter of credit as needed for purposes of TPDI’s compliance with the terms under TPDI’s bank credit facility. In return, Pacific Drilling agreed to pay Transocean our 50% share of a 4.2% per annum fee on the required letter of credit amount. During the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, Pacific Drilling incurred $0.3 million and $0.9 million, respectively, of fees related to this agreement that is recorded as interest expense in our consolidated statement of operations.

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On March 30, 2011, the Company assigned its interests in TPDI’s equity, notes receivable from Joint Venture and accrued interest on promissory notes from Joint Venture to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group. The TPDI interests have been assigned on March 31, 2011, which date was used for convenience after our conclusion that there were no material intervening transactions between March 30, 2011 and March 31, 2011. The assignment was recorded and presented as a dividend in-kind within our consolidated financial statements.

A summarized consolidated balance sheet of TPDI is as follows:

	March 31, 2011
	(In thousands)
Balance sheet:
Current assets	$	193,479
Property and equipment, net		1,421,215
Other assets		8,957
Total assets	$	1,623,651
Current liabilities	$	275,022
Long-term liabilities		1,216,010
Shareholders’ equity		132,619
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	1,623,651

Summarized TPDI consolidated results of operations are as follows:

	For the three months ended March 31, 2011			Year ended December 31, 2010
	(In thousands)
Income statement:
Operating revenues	$	90,414		$	304,092
Operating expenses		35,492			129,214
Operating income		54,922			174,878
Interest expense, net		(13,958	)		(52,762	)
Other expense		(99	)		(138	)
Income before income taxes		40,865			121,978
Income tax expense		4,166			13,715
Net income	$	36,699		$	108,263

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Note 5—Debt

A summary of debt is as follows:

	December 31, 2012		December 31, 2011
	(In thousands)
Due within one year:
Bora Term Loan	$	50,000	$	50,000
Mistral Term Loan		62,500		62,500
Scirocco Term Loan		43,750		43,750
Santa Ana Term Loan		62,500		62,500
Total current debt		218,750		218,750
Long-term debt:
Bora Term Loan	$	300,000	$	350,000
Mistral Term Loan		325,000		387,500
Scirocco Term Loan		287,500		331,250
Santa Ana Term Loan		325,000		387,500
8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds		300,000		—
7.25% Senior Secured Notes		497,458		—
Total long-term debt		2,034,958		1,456,250
Total debt	$	2,253,708	$	1,675,000

Project Facilities Agreement

On September 9, 2010, Pacific Bora Ltd., Pacific Mistral Ltd., Pacific Scirocco Ltd., and Pacific Santa Ana Ltd. (collectively, the “Borrowers”), and Pacific Drilling Limited (the “Guarantor”) (collectively, the “Borrowing Group”) entered into a project facilities agreement with a group of lenders to finance the construction, operation and other costs associated with the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Scirocco and the Pacific Santa Ana, (as amended on November 16, 2010, as amended and restated on March 30, 2011 and as further amended and restated on March 30, 2012, the “Original Project Facilities Agreement”). On April 19, 2012, in connection with the Temporary Import Bond Facilities described below, the Borrowing Group amended and restated the Original Project Facilities Agreement by entering into the Third Amended and Restated Project Facilities Agreement (the “Project Facilities Agreement” or “PFA”). On December 28, 2012, the Borrowing Group entered into the Second Amendment Agreement in respect of the Project Facilities Agreement, which changed the frequency of amortization payments from every six months to every three months.

The Project Facilities Agreement includes a term loan with respect to the Pacific Bora, a term loan with respect to the Pacific Mistral, a term loan with respect to the Pacific Scirocco and a term loan with respect to the Pacific Santa Ana (each, a “Term Loan” and, collectively, the “Term Loans” or the “Term Loan Facility”). Each Term Loan consists of three tranches: one provided by a syndicate of ten commercial banks (the “Commercial Tranche”), one provided by the Ministry of Trade and Industry of the Norwegian government (and guaranteed by the Norwegian Guarantee Institute for Export Credits) (the “GIEK Tranche”) and one provided by The Export-Import Bank of Korea (the “KEXIM Tranche”).

In November 2010, we borrowed $450 million under the Bora Term Loan. During 2011, we borrowed $450 million, $375 million and $450 million under the Mistral Term Loan, the Scirocco Term Loan and the Santa Ana Term Loan, respectively. Under the Scirocco Term Loan, $75 million of the aggregated amount available was cancelled, resulting in our collective final borrowings equaling $1.725 billion under the Project Facilities Agreement.

Borrowings under the Term Loans bear interest at the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus an applicable margin. Prior to the effective date of the first drilling contract in respect of a Borrower’s drillship, the

F-16

applicable margin under the relevant Term Loan is 4% per annum. Subsequent to the effective date of the first drilling contract in respect of such Borrower’s drillship and until 12 months after delivery of all four drillships, the applicable margin is 3.5% per annum. Subsequent to 12 months after the delivery of all four drillships, the applicable margin is based on the Borrowing Group’s historical debt service coverage ratio. If the ratio is not greater than 125%, the applicable margin is 3.5% per annum. If the ratio is greater than 125%, the applicable margin is 3% per annum. Interest is payable every three months.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we incurred $64.4 million, $57.2 million and $12.6 million of interest expense on the Term Loans of which $8.7 million, $51.5 million and $12.6 million was recorded to property and equipment as capitalized interest, respectively.

The Commercial Tranche under the Term Loan Facility matures on October 31, 2015, and the GIEK Tranche and the KEXIM Tranche each mature on October 31, 2019. Each Term Loan requires a residual debt payment of $200 million at maturity of the Commercial Tranche. The GIEK Tranche and the KEXIM Tranche each contain put options exercisable if the Commercial Tranche is not refinanced on terms acceptable to GIEK and/or KEXIM, respectively. If the GIEK Tranche put option or the KEXIM Tranche put option is exercised, each Borrower must prepay, in full, the portion of all outstanding loans that relate to the GIEK Tranche and/or the KEXIM Tranche, as applicable, on the maturity date of the Commercial Tranche, without any premium, penalty or fees of any kind.

Borrowings under the Commercial Tranche may be prepaid in whole or in part with a 1% penalty on the amount prepaid if such prepayment takes place within one year after the delivery of the fourth drillship, and no penalty thereafter. Borrowings under the GIEK Tranche and the KEXIM Tranche may be prepaid in whole or in part with a 0.5% penalty.

With respect to the term loans relating to the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Scirocco and the Pacific Santa Ana, we are required to make amortization payments of $12.5 million, $15.6 million, $10.9 million and $15.6 million, respectively, every three months, commencing in January 2013, with the residual debt payment of $200 million each due in October 2015.

The indebtedness under the Project Facilities Agreement is guaranteed by the Guarantor. The obligations of the Borrowers under the Term Loan Facility are joint and several. The Project Facilities Agreement is secured by several collateral components, which are usual and customary for such financings. The security provided to the lenders is cross-collateralized across all Term Loans and comprises assignments of refund guarantees, shipbuilding contracts and insurances, a first preferred mortgage over each Borrower’s drillship and other types of collateral.

The Project Facilities Agreement requires compliance with certain affirmative and negative covenants that are customary for such financings. These include, but are not limited to, restrictions on (i) the ability of each of the Borrowers to pay dividends to its shareholder or sell assets and (ii) the ability of the Borrowing Group to incur additional indebtedness or liens, make investments or transact with affiliates (except for certain specified exceptions). The Borrowers are restricted in their ability to transfer their net assets to the Guarantor, whether in the form of dividends, loans or advances. As of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Borrowing Group held $1.7 billion and $1.5 billion of restricted net assets, respectively.

The Guarantor (through the Borrowing Group) is also required to (i) enter into and maintain drilling contracts for each drillship (except as permitted pursuant to an executed waiver letter), (ii) maintain cash account balances reserved for debt service payments, (iii) maintain Guarantor liquidity and (iv) maintain contributed equity above certain levels and to meet a required level of collateral maintenance whereby the aggregate appraised collateral value must not be less than a certain percentage of the total outstanding balances and commitments under the Project Facilities Agreement.

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The Project Facilities Agreement also requires compliance by the Guarantor with the following financial covenants: (i) a projected (looking forward over the following twelve months) debt service coverage ratio of at least 1.1x through June 30, 2012 and 1.2x thereafter; (ii) a historical (looking back over the preceding twelve months) debt service coverage ratio of at least 1.1x through December 31, 2013 and 1.2x thereafter; (iii) a maximum leverage ratio of 65% and (iv) a minimum liquidity of $50 million (held in a restricted and pledged account with the Security Trustee) after the delivery of all four drillships.

Each Borrower is also required under the Project Facilities Agreement to hedge 75% of outstanding and available balances against floating interest rate exposure.

The Project Facilities Agreement contains events of default that are usual and customary for a financing of this type, size and purpose. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, borrowings under the Project Facilities Agreement are subject to acceleration.

2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds

In February 2012, we completed a private placement of 8.25% senior unsecured U.S. dollar denominated bonds due 2015 (the “2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds”) in aggregate principal amount of $300 million to eligible purchasers. The bonds bear interest at 8.25% per annum, payable semiannually on February 23 and August 23, and mature on February 23, 2015.

The 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds are general unsecured, senior obligations that rank: (i) senior in right of payment to all of the Company’s subordinated indebtedness, if any; (ii) pari passu in right of payment with any of the Company’s existing and future unsecured indebtedness that is not by its terms subordinated to the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds; (iii) effectively junior to the Company’s existing and future senior debt facilities (including the Project Facilities Agreement, the Temporary Import Bond Facilities (as defined below), any future customary senior secured debt facilities provided by banks and/or financial institutions and any future first priority senior secured bond financing obtained to finance our fleet, including any refinancing, amendments or replacements of the debt facilities).

The Company may acquire 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds in the open market, or otherwise, at any time without restriction. Within 60 days after notification of a specified change in control event, each bondholder has the right to exercise an early repayment option at a price equal to 101% of par, plus accrued interest.

During the year ended December 31, 2012, we incurred $21.1 million in interest expense on the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds of which $17.0 million was recorded to property and equipment as capitalized interest, respectively. We did not incur interest expense on the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds during the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.

The 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds contain provisions that limit, with certain exceptions, the ability of the Company and our subsidiaries to (i) merge or demerge, (ii) dispose of assets, (iii) incur financial indebtedness and (iv) pay dividends exceeding 50% of consolidated net income for the preceding fiscal year. The 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds also require compliance with financial covenants including (i) a minimum equity ratio of 35%, (ii) a minimum liquidity of $25 million and (iii) a leverage restriction limiting the outstanding secured and unsecured borrowings on a consolidated basis (excluding Temporary Import Bond Facilities) to an average of $475 million per drillship. The 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds contain events of default that are usual and customary for a financing of this type, size and purpose. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, borrowings under the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds are subject to acceleration.

2017 Senior Secured Notes

In November 2012, Pacific Drilling V Limited (the “Issuer”), an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Pacific Drilling S.A. (the “Parent”), completed a private placement of $500 million (the “2017 Senior Secured

F-18

Notes”) in aggregate principal amount of 7.25% senior secured U.S. dollar denominated notes due 2017 to eligible purchasers. The 2017 Senior Secured Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Pacific Drilling S.A. on a senior unsecured basis. The 2017 Senior Secured Notes constitute a new series of debt securities under an indenture dated as of November 28, 2012 (the “Indenture”), among the Issuer, the Parent and each subsidiary guarantor from time to time party thereto, as guarantors, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee (in such capacity, the “Trustee”) and Collateral Agent (in such capacity, the “Collateral Agent”).

The 2017 Senior Secured Notes were sold at 99.483% of par. The Notes bear interest at 7.25% per annum, payable semiannually on June 1 and December 1, commencing on June 1, 2013, and mature on December 1, 2017.

As of December 31, 2012, the Issuer has no subsidiaries. Any future subsidiary of the Issuer that holds or will hold the Pacific Khamsin or certain related assets, or is or becomes party to a drilling contract in respect of the Pacific Khamsin, will guarantee the notes on a senior secured basis. None of Pacific Drilling S.A.’s other subsidiaries will be guarantors of the 2017 Senior Secured Notes. The 2017 Senior Secured Notes and the note guarantees will be the Issuer’s and each guarantor subsidiary’s senior obligation, respectively, and will rank equal in right of payment to all existing and future senior indebtedness of the Issuer and such guarantor, respectively, and will rank senior in right of payment to all existing and future subordinated indebtedness of the Issuer and such guarantor, respectively.

Prior to the delivery of the Pacific Khamsin, the 2017 Senior Secured Notes will be secured by a first-priority security interest (subject to certain exceptions) in substantially all of the assets of the Issuer, including the Issuer’s rights under the construction contract and the refund guarantee for the Pacific Khamsin , and by a pledge of the capital stock of the Issuer. Upon delivery of the Pacific Khamsin, the 2017 Senior Secured Notes will also be secured by a first-priority security interest (subject to exceptions) in the Pacific Khamsin, and substantially all of the other assets of the Issuer, including an assignment of earnings and insurance proceeds related to the Pacific Khamsin.

On or after December 1, 2015, the Issuer has the option to redeem the 2017 Senior Secured Notes, in whole or in part, at one time or from time to time, at the redemption prices plus accrued and unpaid interests and additional amounts, if any, as specified in the Indenture. Prior to December 1, 2015, the Issuer may redeem all or any portion of the Notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the outstanding notes plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional amounts, if any, to the redemption date, plus a “make-whole” premium. In addition, prior to December 1, 2015, the Issuer may, at its option, on one or more occasions redeem up to 35% of the aggregate original principal amount of the Notes (including any additional Notes) with the net cash proceeds from certain equity offerings of the Parent at a redemption price of 107.250% of the principal amount of the outstanding notes plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional amounts, if any, to the redemption date. The Issuer may also, prior to December 1, 2015, redeem up to 10% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes in any 12 month period at a redemption price equal to 103% of the aggregate principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional amounts, if any, to the redemption date.

During the year ended December 31, 2012, we incurred and capitalized interest expense of $3.4 million on the 2017 Senior Secured Notes. We did not incur interest expense on the 2017 Senior Secured Notes during the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.

The 2017 Senior Secured Notes contain provisions that limit, with certain exceptions, the ability of Pacific Drilling S.A., the Issuer and Pacific Drilling S.A.’s other restricted subsidiaries to (i) pay dividends, purchase or redeem Pacific Drilling S.A.’s capital stock or subordinated indebtedness of the Issuer or any guarantor or make other restricted payments, (ii) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue preferred stock, (iii) create or incur liens and (iv) create unrestricted subsidiaries, (v) enter into transactions with affiliates, (vi) enter into new lines of business, (vii) transfer or sell the Pacific Khamsin and other related assets and (vii) merge or demerge. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Issuer held $0 of restricted net assets, respectively.

F-19

Temporary Import Bond Facilities

As part of the standard Nigerian importation requirements for equipment, we are required to either import the vessel into Nigeria on a permanent basis and pay import duties or apply for a Temporary Importation (“TI”) permit and put up a bond for the value of the import duties instead. On July 13, 2011, we entered into a temporary Standby Letter of Credit (“SBLC”) facility with Citibank, N.A. to support a TI bond for the Pacific Bora as required in Nigeria (the “Bora TI Bond”). On December 6, 2011, we entered into separate temporary SBLC facilities with each of Citibank, N.A. and Standard Charter Bank to support a TI bond for the Pacific Scirocco as required in Nigeria (collectively, the “Scirocco TI Bond” and, together with the Bora TI Bond, the “TI Bonds”).

Under the SBLC facility for the Pacific Bora, Citibank, N.A., as issuing bank, issued a letter of credit for the benefit of Citibank Nigeria denominated in the Nigerian currency, Naira, in the amount of approximately $99.8 million. This letter of credit provided credit support for the Bora TI Bond that was issued by Citibank Nigeria in favor of the Government of Nigeria Customs Service for the Pacific Bora.

Under the temporary SBLC facilities for the Pacific Scirocco, Citibank, N.A. and Standard Charter Bank, as issuing banks, each issued a letter of credit for the benefit of Citibank Nigeria and Standard Charter Bank Nigeria, respectively, denominated in Naira in the collective amount of approximately $109.5 million. These letters of credit provided credit support for the Scirocco TI Bond that was issued by Citibank Nigeria and Standard Charter Bank Nigeria, respectively, in favor of the Government of Nigeria Customs Service for the Pacific Scirocco.

On April 19, 2012, the temporary SBLC facilities for the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco were each replaced by a Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement. Under the Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement for the Bora TI Bond (the “Bora TI Facility”), Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent, issuing bank and arranger, has issued a letter of credit for the benefit of Citibank Nigeria in the amount of 14,884,342,426 Naira or approximately $94.5 million as of April 19, 2012. This letter of credit provides credit support for the Bora TI Bond that was issued by Citibank Nigeria in favor of the Government of Nigeria Customs Service for the Pacific Bora.

Under the Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement for the Scirocco TI Bond (the “Scirocco TI Facility,” and, together with the Bora TI Facility, the “TI Facilities”), Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent, issuing bank and arranger, has issued letters of credit for the benefit of Citibank Nigeria and Standard Charter Bank Nigeria in the collective amount of 17,280,837,923 Naira or approximately $109.7 million as of April 19, 2012. These letters of credit provide credit support for the TI bonds that were issued by Citibank Nigeria and Standard Charter Bank Nigeria, respectively, in favor of the Government of Nigeria Customs Service for the Pacific Scirocco.

Each letter of credit issued pursuant to the Bora TI Facility and Scirocco TI Facility will expire after a one-year period and will be renewable for up to two additional one-year terms based on the initial contract term of each vessel. In connection with the placement of the Bora TI Facility and the Scirocco TI Facility, our restricted cash deposit obligations were lowered from $50 million and $99 million under the former SBLC facilities to $10.7 million and $12.3 million, respectively, resulting in a release of approximately $126 million of cash collateral. The restricted cash balance required is subject to fluctuations in the U.S. dollar to Naira currency exchange rates.

The TI Facilities require the Company to pay fees, in addition to customary fronting fees, calculated based on outstanding balances of the TI Bonds and each outstanding letter of credit. Fees on the TI Facilities are primarily based on 2.5% of the U.S. dollar equivalent of outstanding balances of the Bora TI Facility and the Scirocco TI Facility. During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, we incurred $5.5 million and $0.7 million, respectively, in interest expense on the TI Facilities.

F-20

Maturities of Long-Term Debt

For purposes of preparing our scheduled maturities of debt, borrowings under the GIEK Tranche and the KEXIM Tranche are presented assuming an exercise of the option by GIEK and KEXIM to accelerate the maturity date to October 31, 2015. Maturities of long-term debt for each of the five years ending after December 31, 2012 are as follows:

	(In thousands)
Twelve months ended December 31,
2013	$	218,750
2014		218,750
2015		1,318,750
2016		—
2017		500,000

Note 6—Restricted Cash

Restricted cash consists primarily of bank accounts held with financial institutions as security for the Project Facilities Agreement and the Temporary Import Bond Facilities.

Note 7—Income Taxes

Pacific Drilling S.A., a holding company and Luxembourg resident, is subject to Luxembourg corporate income tax and municipal business tax at a combined rate of 28.8 percent. Qualifying dividend income and capital gains on the sale of qualifying investments in subsidiaries are exempt from Luxembourg corporate income tax and municipal business tax. Consequently, Pacific Drilling S.A. expects dividends from its subsidiaries and capital gains from sales of investments in its subsidiaries to be exempt from Luxembourg corporate income tax and municipal business tax.

Income taxes have been provided based on the laws and rates in effect in the countries in which our operations are conducted or in which our subsidiaries are considered residents for income tax purposes. Our income tax expense or benefit arises from our mix of pretax earnings or losses, respectively, in the international tax jurisdictions in which we operate. Because the countries in which we operate have different statutory tax rates and tax regimes with respect to one another, there is no expected relationship between the provision for income taxes and our income or loss before income taxes.

Income / (loss) before income taxes consisted of the following:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
	(In thousands)
Luxembourg	$	(24,451	)	$	(1,281	)	$	—
United States		(444	)		(2,753	)		498
Other Jurisdictions		80,597			4,331			36,752
Total	$	55,702		$	297		$	37,250

F-21

The components of income tax (provision) / benefit consisted of the following:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011
	(In thousands)
Current income tax expense:
Luxembourg	$	(535	)	$	—		$	—
United States		(4,404	)		(164	)		(301	)
Other Foreign		(20,540	)		(6,205	)		(21	)
Total current	$	(25,479	)	$	(6,369	)	$	(322	)
Deferred tax benefit:
Luxembourg	$	32		$	—		$	—
United States		4,646			782			344
Other Foreign		(912	)		2,387			27
Total deferred	$	3,766		$	3,169		$	371
Income tax (expense) benefit	$	(21,713	)	$	(3,200	)	$	49

A reconciliation between the Luxembourg statutory rate of 28.8 percent and Liberian statutory rate of zero percent and our effective tax rate is as follows:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Statutory rate		28.8	%		28.8	%		—
Effect of tax rates different than the Luxembourg statutory tax rate		6.8	%		108.5	%		(0.1	)%
Change in valuation allowance		3.4	%		934.1	%		—
Adjustments related to prior years		—			6.0	%		—
Effective tax rate		39.0	%		1,077.4	%		(0.1	)%

The components of deferred tax assets and liabilities consist of the following:

	December 31,
	2012			2011
	(In thousands)
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards	$	4,671		$	2,547
Accrued payroll expenses		4,644			2,175
Deferred revenue		5,592			2,410
Other		23			18
Deferred tax assets		14,930			7,150
Less: valuation allowance		(4,476	)		(2,547	)
Total deferred tax assets	$	10,454		$	4,603
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation and amortization	$	(1,125	)	$	(1,063	)
Deferred expenses		(2,024	)		—
Total deferred tax liabilities	$	(3,149	)	$	(1,063	)
Net deferred tax assets	$	7,305		$	3,540

F-22

As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had gross deferred tax assets of $4.7 million and $2.5 million related to loss carry forwards in various worldwide tax jurisdictions. The majority of the loss carry forwards have no expiration.

A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is established when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets was $4.5 million and $2.5 million, respectively. The increase in our valuation allowance primarily resulted from losses incurred in Nigeria and Brazil during the year ended December 31, 2012, for which we believe it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.

We consider the earnings of certain of our subsidiaries to be indefinitely reinvested. As such, we have not provided for taxes on these unremitted earnings. Should we make a distribution from the unremitted earnings of these subsidiaries, we would be subject to taxes payable to various jurisdictions. At December 31, 2012, the amount of indefinitely reinvested earnings was approximately $29 million. If all of these indefinitely reinvested earnings were distributed, we would be subject to estimated taxes of approximately $0.4 million.

We recognize tax benefits from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we have not accrued any liabilities with respect to uncertain tax positions. We will recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

Pacific Drilling is subject to taxation in various U.S., foreign, and state jurisdictions in which it conducts business. Tax years as early as 2009 remain subject to examination. As of December 31, 2012, Pacific Drilling’s only ongoing tax audit is in Nigeria and relates to the 2011 tax year. The audit recently commenced and no issues have been raised to date. There are no other known pending tax audits.

Note 8—Related-Party Loan

The related-party loan was provided by Winter Finance Limited (“Winter Finance”), a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group. In November 2010, the Company made a $69.4 million related-party loan payment in conjunction and compliance with the first utilization under the Bora Term Loan and $655 million of the related-party loan was converted into equity. On December 31, 2010, all outstanding related–party loan principal and accrued interest, in the amount of $892.6 million, was converted into equity in Pacific Drilling Limited. During the year ended December 31, 2011, Pacific Drilling borrowed $142.2 million. On March 23, 2011, all outstanding related–party loan principal and accrued interest, in the amount of $142.8 million, was converted into equity of Pacific Drilling Limited. Following the conversion, the Intercompany Loan Agreement was terminated.

Borrowings under the intercompany revolving loan agreement accrued interest at the rate of six percent per annum. During the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, Pacific Drilling incurred and capitalized interest expense of $0.6 million and $60.1 million, respectively, on the related-party loan as a cost of property and equipment.

Note 9—Shareholder’s Equity

As of December 31, 2009, the common stock of Pacific Drilling Limited consisted of 805,000 shares of authorized and issued common stock with $0.001 par value.

On November 29, 2010, $655 million of the related-party loan from Winter Finance was assigned to Quantum. The related-party loan was then converted to equity in Pacific Drilling, in the form of additional paid in capital by means of it being contributed, by Quantum, as an additional capital contribution for the common stock held by it as sole shareholder of the Company.

On December 10, 2010, the Board of Pacific Drilling Limited authorized and approved an amendment and restatement of its Articles of Incorporation, to increase the authorized number of shares of common stock, no par value per share, to 2,000,000 shares of common stock.

F-23

On December 31, 2010, Quantum was assigned all outstanding principal and accrued interest of the related-party loan from Winter Finance, which was then converted to equity, in the amount of $892.6 million, in Pacific Drilling in exchange for the issuance of 1,115,761 shares of common stock.

On March 11, 2011, Pacific Drilling S.A. was incorporated under the form of a société anonyme governed by the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg with a share capital of $50,000 represented by 50,000 common shares, no par value.

On March 23, 2011, Quantum Pacific Group was assigned all outstanding principal and accrued interest of the related-party loan in the amount of $142.8 million, which was then converted to equity in the Company by means of it being contributed as additional consideration for the existing shares held by it as sole shareholder of the Company.

On March 30, 2011, the Company assigned its interests in TPDI’s equity, promissory notes to Joint Venture and accrued interest on promissory notes from Joint Venture to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group. The assignment was recorded and presented as a dividend in-kind within our consolidated financial statements.

Additionally, on March 30, 2011, the Board of Pacific Drilling S.A. resolved to split the 50,000 incorporation common shares into 5,000,000 common shares, no par value. The Board also resolved for Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited to become the indirect sole shareholder of all issued Pacific Drilling Limited common shares in exchange for the issuance of 145,000,000 common shares of Pacific Drilling S.A. Further, on March 30, 2011, the shareholder held a general meeting to approve amending the Company’s Articles to authorize the Board of Directors, for a period of five years, to issue up to $50,000,000 of share capital (inclusive of current share capital of the Company).

On April 5, 2011, Pacific Drilling completed a private placement of 60,000,000 common shares for net proceeds of approximately $575.5 million, $0.01 par value.

In November 2011, the Company completed an initial public offering of 6,000,000 common shares. In December 2011, the underwriters purchased an additional 900,000 common shares pursuant to the full exercise of an over-allotment option. The initial public offering resulted in net proceeds of approximately $50.3 million.

In December 2011, the Company also issued 7,200,000 common shares to one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, which represents 3.3% of our outstanding common shares. These common shares are held in treasury for purposes of administering our Pacific Drilling S.A. 2011 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan.

As of December 31, 2012, the Company’s share capital consisted of 5,000,000,000 common shares authorized, 224,100,000 common shares issued and 216,902,000 common shares outstanding of which approximately 69.2% is held by Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited.

Note 10—Share-Based Compensation

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, compensation expense recognized related to share-based arrangement grants totaled $5.3 million, $4.5 million and $0.1 million, respectively, and is recorded in general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of operations.

2009 Stock Plan

On April 24, 2009, the Board of our Predecessor approved the creation of the Pacific Drilling Limited 2009 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the “2009 Stock Plan”), which provided for issuance of common stock options, as well as share appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted share units, and other equity based or equity related awards to directors, officers, employees and consultants of Pacific Drilling. The Board also authorized the issuance of 6,684 common stock options to certain executives and employees at a per share exercise price of $1,000, which the Board determined at issuance to be the fair market value of a share of our Predecessor’s common stock. The options issued in 2009 had a contractual term of 10 years and were scheduled to vest 50%, 25% and 25% on March 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.

F-24

On December 21, 2010, the Board authorized the issuance of 12,577 common stock options to certain executives and employees at a per share exercise price of $800, which the Board determined at issuance to be the fair market value of a share of our Predecessor’s common stock. The options issued in 2010 had a contractual term of 10 years and were scheduled to vest 25% annually on March 31, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014.

Pursuant to the terms of the options granted, our Predecessor could elect to settle the stock options upon exercise in cash instead of issuing shares of our common stock. The Company anticipated settling any of the 2010 and 2009 stock options in cash. As such, the stock options were accounted for as liability awards at fair value.

2011 Stock Plan

Stock Options

On March 31, 2011, as part of the Restructuring, the Company cancelled the 2009 Stock Plan. Further, the Board approved the creation of the Pacific Drilling S.A. 2011 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the “2011 Stock Plan”), which provides for issuance of common stock options, as well as share appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted share units and other equity based or equity related awards to directors, officers, employees and consultants. The Board also resolved that 7.2 million common shares of Pacific Drilling S.A. be reserved and authorized for issuance pursuant to the terms of the 2011 Stock Plan.

In conjunction with the Restructuring and cancellation of stock option grants under the 2009 Stock Plan, the Company issued 1,471,601 common stock options in Pacific Drilling S.A. as a replacement of the 2010 and 2009 stock options. The replacement awards were recorded as a modification of an existing award. As exercises of replacement awards will be settled in common shares, the $2.3 million liability for stock options issued under the 2009 Stock Plan on the date of modification was extinguished and the balance reclassified to additional paid-in capital. Additionally, on March 31, 2011, the Company granted 1,329,710 common stock options to certain executives and employees pursuant to the 2011 Stock Plan.

The 2009 replacement option grants vest 50%, 25% and 25% on March 31, 2011, 2012, and 2013, respectively. The 2010 replacement option grants and the 2011 option grants vest 25% annually over four years commencing on March 31, 2011 and March 31, 2012, respectively. The 2009 replacement option grants, 2010 replacement option grants and the 2011 option grants were issued at an exercise price of $10.00 and have a 10 year contractual term.

The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option valuation model utilizing the assumptions noted in the table below. Expected volatility is based on implied volatilities from the expected volatility of a representative group of our publicly listed industry peer group as the historical volatility of the Company does not provide a reasonable basis for estimating volatility. The expected terms of the options is calculated using the simplified method as the historical option exercise experience of the Company does not provide a reasonable basis for estimating expected term. The risk free interest rates are determined using the implied yield currently available for zero-coupon U.S. government issues with a remaining term equal to the expected life of the options.

The fair value of the 2011, 2010 and 2009 stock option grants as of March 31, 2011, the date of modification and grant, was calculated using the following assumptions:

	2011 stock options			2010 stock options			2009 stock options
Expected volatility		52	%		53	%		53	%
Expected term (in years)		6.25			6.00			5.75
Expected dividends		—			—			—
Risk-free interest rate		2.65	%		2.57	%		2.49	%

F-25

On March 31, 2012, the Company granted 1,294,840 common stock options to certain members of our Board of Directors, executives and employees pursuant to the 2011 Stock Plan. The 2012 option grants vest 25% annually over four years. The 2012 option grants were issued at an exercise price of $10.12 and have a 10 year contractual term.

The fair value of the 2012 stock option grants as of March 31, 2012, the date of grant, was calculated using the following assumptions:

	2012 stock options
Expected volatility		48.5	%
Expected term (in years)		6.25
Expected dividends		—
Risk-free interest rate		1.40	%

A summary of option activity under the 2011 Stock Plan as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012 is as follows:

	Number of shares under option			Weighted-average exercise price (per share)		Weighted-average remaining contractual term (in years)		Aggregate intrinsic value (in thousands)
Outstanding—January 1, 2012		2,788,596		$	10.00
Granted		1,294,840			10.12
Exercised		—			—
Cancelled		—			—
Forfeited or expired		(107,798	)		10.00
Outstanding—December 31, 2012		3,975,638		$	10.04		8.1		—
Exercisable—December 31, 2012		1,121,429		$	10.00		7.3		—

The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 was $4.85 and $5.24. There were no options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010. As of December 31, 2012, total compensation costs related to nonvested option awards not yet recognized is $10.6 million and is expected to be recognized over 2.5 years.

Restricted Stock Units

On November 2, 2011, we granted awards of 12,000 restricted stock units with a grant date fair value of $8.54 under the 2011 Plan to certain members of our Board of Directors. On March 31, 2012, the Company also granted 297,180 restricted stock units to certain members of our Board of Directors, executives and employees pursuant to the 2011 Stock Plan. These restricted stock units will be settled in shares of our stock and will generally vest over a period of four years.

A summary of restricted stock units activity under the 2011 Stock Plan as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012 is as follows:

	Number of restricted stock units			Weighted-average grant-date fair value (per share)
Nonvested—January 1, 2012		12,000		$	8.54
Granted		297,180			10.12
Vested		(2,000	)		8.54
Forfeited		(17,492	)		10.12
Nonvested—December 31, 2012		289,688		$	10.07

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As of December 31, 2012, total compensation costs related to nonvested restricted stock units not yet recognized is $2.4 million and is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3.2 years.

Note 11—Derivatives

We are currently exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates. From time to time, we may enter into a variety of derivative financial instruments in connection with the management of our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates and to meet our debt covenant requirements. We do not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes; however, for accounting purposes, certain transactions may not meet the criteria for hedge accounting.

During 2011, we entered into four interest rate swaps to reduce the variability of future cash flows in the interest payments for the variable-rate debt under the Project Facilities Agreement. We designated the interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes. The interest rate swaps pay a fixed rate of interest and receive LIBOR. The fixed interest rate swap rates are 1.83%, 1.87%, 1.6% and 2.39% for the Bora Term Loan, Scirocco Term Loan, Mistral Term Loan and Santa Ana Term Loan, respectively. As of December 31, 2012, the notional amounts of the Bora, Scirocco, Mistral and Santa Ana interest rate swaps were $350.0 million, $316.7 million, $331.3 million and $387.5 million, respectively. The notional amounts of the interest rate swaps amortize quarterly and will expire on October 31, 2015.

On December 28, 2012, management de-designated a portion of the Bora, Scirocco, Mistral and Santa Ana interest rate swaps from hedge accounting due to the change in payment frequency of principal payments resulting from the Second Amendment Agreement to the Project Facilities Agreement. Subsequent to de-designation, we account for the de-designated portion of the interest rate swaps on a mark-to-market basis, with both realized and unrealized gains and losses on the de-designated portion recorded currently in earnings in interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. As a result of the de-designation, $2.8 million of accumulated other comprehensive income associated with the de-designated portion of the interest rate swap was reclassified into interest expense.

The table below provides data about the fair values of derivatives that are designated as hedge instruments as of December 31, 2012 and 2011:

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments	Derivative liabilities Balance sheet location	December 31,
		2012		2011
		(In thousands)
Short-term—Interest rate swaps	Derivative liabilities, current	$	17,017	$	20,466
Long-term—Interest rate swaps	Other long-term liabilities	$	27,437	$	30,769
Total		$	44,454	$	51,235

As of December 31, 2012, the estimated amount of net losses associated with derivative instruments that would be reclassified to earnings during the next twelve months is $18.5 million.

The table below provides data about the fair values of derivatives that are not designated as hedge instruments as of December 31, 2012 and 2011:

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	Derivative liabilities Balance sheet location	December 31,
		2012		2011
		(In thousands)
Short-term—Interest rate swaps	Derivative liabilities, current	$	978	$	—
Long-term—Interest rate swaps	Other long-term liabilities	$	1,574	$	—
Total		$	2,552	$	—

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The following table summarizes the cash flow hedge gains and losses for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010:

Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships	Amount of income (loss) recognized in equity for the year ended December 31,							Amount of loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income for the year ended December 31,						Amount recognized in income (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing) for the year ended December 31,
	2012		2011			2010		2012		2011		2010		2012		2011		2010
	(In thousands)
Interest rate swaps	$	1,868	$	(60,284	)	$	—	$	24,419	$	1,802	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—

For the de-designated portion of the interest rate swaps not in a cash flow hedge relationship, gains and losses recorded from December 28, 2012 to December 31, 2012 were immaterial.

Note 12—Fair Value Measurements

We have estimated fair value by using appropriate valuation methodologies and information available to management as of December 31, 2012 and 2011. Considerable judgment is required in developing these estimates, and accordingly, estimated values may differ from actual results.

The estimated fair value of accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximates their carrying value due to their short-term nature. Additionally, the estimated fair value of current and noncurrent restricted cash approximates its carrying value as it consists of cash and cash equivalent balances. The estimated fair value of our Project Facilities Agreement debt approximates carrying value because the variable rates approximate current market rates. As of December 31, 2012, we estimated the fair value of our 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds and our 2017 Senior Secured Notes to be approximately $308.9 million and $512.5 million compared to their carrying value of $300.0 million and $497.5 million. We estimate the fair values of our variable-rate and fixed-rate debts using significant other observable inputs, which represent Level 2 fair value measurements.

The following table presents the carrying value and estimated fair value of our financial instruments recognized at fair value on a recurring basis:

	December 31, 2012
			Fair value measurements using
	Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(in thousands)
Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps	$	47,006		—		47,006		—
	December 31, 2011
			Fair value measurements using
	Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(in thousands)
Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps	$	51,235		—		51,235		—

We use an income approach to value assets and liabilities for outstanding interest rate swaps. These contracts are valued using a discounted cash flow model that calculates the present value of future cash flows under the terms of the contracts using market information as of the reporting date, such as prevailing interest rates. The determination of the fair values above incorporates various factors, including the impact of the counterparty’s non-performance risk with respect to the Company’s financial assets and the Company’s non-performance risk with respect to the Company’s financial liabilities. The Company has not elected to offset the fair value amounts recognized for multiple derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty, but report them gross on its consolidated balance sheets.

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Refer to Note 11 for further discussion of the Company’s use of derivative instruments and their fair values.

Note 13—Commitments and Contingencies

Operating Leases—The Company leases office space in countries it operates. The future minimum lease payments under the non-cancelable operating leases with lease terms in excess of one year are as follows:

	(In thousands)
Years ending December 31,
2013	$	1,041
2014		1,057
2015		751
2016		738
2017		757
Thereafter		2,375
Total future minimum lease payments	$	6,719

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, rent expense was $1.7 million, $1.1 million and $0.6 million, respectively.

Commitments—As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, Pacific Drilling had no material commitments other than commitments related to deepwater drillship construction purchase commitments discussed in Note 3.

Contingencies—The Company may be the subject of certain claims and lawsuits occurring in the normal course of business. No pending or known threatened claims, actions or proceedings against us are expected to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

On November 9, 2010, Pacific Drilling entered into a drilling contract for the Pacific Bora with a subsidiary of Chevron Corporation (“Chevron”). Under the contract terms, Chevron will reimburse Pacific Drilling for up to $30 million in capital upgrades. At the end of the contract, Pacific Drilling is obligated to refund a portion of these costs. The amount of refund is dependent upon the timing of the expiration of the drilling contract. If the contract ends on the initial primary term of three years, Pacific Drilling will refund Chevron 50% of the capital upgrades cost. For each year the contract is extended beyond the initial primary term, the amount refunded is reduced by 10%. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, Pacific Drilling has recorded a liability of $15.6 million and $4.0 million, respectively, for costs of upgrades incurred and billed to Chevron. If the contract is extended, Pacific Drilling will record the resulting gain contingency to reimbursable revenues in future periods.

We maintain loss of hire insurance that becomes effective 45 days after an accident or major equipment failure covered by hull and machinery insurance, resulting in a downtime event and extends for 180 days. In the third quarter 2011, the Pacific Scirocco underwent repairs and upgrades to ensure engine reliability, which was a covered event under our loss of hire policy that resulted in the $23.7 million and $18.5 million of loss of hire insurance recovery recognized for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Note 14—Retirement Plan

Pacific Drilling sponsors a defined contribution retirement plan covering substantially all U.S. employees (the “U.S. Savings Plan”) and an international savings plan (the “International Savings Plan”). Under the U.S. Savings Plan, the Company matches 100% of employee contributions (limited to $17,000 or, for employees age 50 or over, $22,500) up to 6% of eligible compensation per participant. Under the International Savings Plan, we contribute 6% of base income (limited to $15,000 per participant). During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, our total employer contributions to both plans amounted to $3.7 million, $2.8 million and $0.5 million, respectively.

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Note 15—Concentrations of Credit and Market Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject Pacific Drilling to credit risk are primarily cash equivalents and restricted cash. At times, cash equivalents may be in excess of FDIC insurance limits. Pacific Drilling has a concentration of customers in the offshore drilling industry, which exposes us to a concentration of credit risk within a single industry. This industry concentration has the potential to impact our overall exposure to market and credit risks as our customers could be affected by similar changes in economic, industry or other conditions. However, we believe that the credit risk posed by this industry concentration is largely offset by the creditworthiness of our customer base. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the percentage revenues earned from our customers was as follows:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Chevron		45.0	%		100.0	%		—
Total		32.9	%		—			—
Petrobras		22.1	%		—			—

Note 16—Related-Party Transactions

Prior to the Restructuring, we received funding in the form of a related-party loan as presented in our consolidated financial statements and described in Note 8 and Note 9. On December 31, 2010, the Quantum Pacific Group was assigned all outstanding principal and accrued interest of the loan from Winter Finance, which was then converted into 1,115,761 shares of Pacific Drilling. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we borrowed $142.2 million under the related-party loan. On March 23, 2011, all outstanding related–party loan principal and accrued interest, in the amount of $142.8 million, was converted into equity of Pacific Drilling Limited.

Prior to the TPDI Transfer, the Company entered into promissory note agreements with TPDI and Transocean to fund TPDI as presented in our consolidated financial statements and described in Note 4. The promissory notes accrued interest at LIBOR plus 2% per annum. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, promissory notes to the Joint Venture and the accrued interest receivable on these promissory notes were $0. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the Company recorded related-party interest income from the Joint Venture of $0, $0.5 million and $2.0 million on the promissory notes, respectively.

On March 30, 2011, we transferred our equity interest in TPDI, including promissory notes, to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group. We did not receive any consideration for the transfer. In connection with the TPDI Transfer, we entered into a management agreement pursuant to which we provided day-to-day oversight and management services with respect to the Quantum Pacific Group’s equity interest in TPDI for a fee of $4,000 per drillship per day, or $8,000 per day. On May 31, 2012, as a result of Quantum Pacific’s divestiture of their equity position in TPDI, this management agreement was terminated. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 management fee income of $1.2 million, $2.2 million and $0, respectively, was recorded in other income within our consolidated statements of operations.

The joint venture agreements relating to TPDI provided Quantum Pacific Group with a put option that allowed it to exchange its 50% interest in TPDI for shares of Transocean Ltd. or cash at a purchase price based on an appraisal of the fair value of the two vessels owned by TPDI, subject to various customary adjustments. In conjunction with the TPDI Transfer and a related amendment to the Original Project Facilities Agreement, a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group provided the TPDI Put Option Guarantee. In consideration for the TPDI Put Option Guarantee, we agreed to pay the Quantum Pacific Group a fee of 0.25% per annum on the outstanding borrowings on the Project Facilities Agreement. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, guarantee fees of $1.3 million, $1.9 million and $0 were incurred of which $0.5 million, $1.5 million and $0 were recorded to property and equipment as capitalized interest costs, respectively. On April 24, 2012, the Quantum Pacific Group TPDI Put Option Guarantee was terminated and the Quantum Pacific Group was released from its

F-30

obligations thereunder. In connection with the termination and release of the TPDI Put Option Guarantee, we were released from our obligation to pay the Quantum Pacific Group a fee of 0.25% per annum on the outstanding borrowings on the Project Facilities Agreement and the related agreement was terminated.

In February 2012, the Quantum Pacific Group purchased $40 million of the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds. Following their initial purchase, the Quantum Pacific Group sold the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds purchased to unrelated parties. See Note 5 for a description of the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds.

Note 17—Segments and Geographic Areas

Pacific Drilling is engaged in offshore contract drilling operations in international locations, with the operation and management of our ultra-deepwater drillships. Our primary business is to contract our drillships, related equipment and work crews primarily on a dayrate basis. We specialize in technically demanding segments of the offshore drilling business with a focus on deepwater drilling services.

Although we operate in many geographic locations, there is a similarity of economic characteristics among all of our locations, including the nature of services provided and the type of customers. Our drillships are part of a single, global market for contract drilling services and can be redeployed globally due to changing demands. We intend to evaluate the performance of our operating segments based on revenues from external customers and operating profit by rig. The consolidation of our operating segments into one reportable segment is attributable to how we manage our business. The accounting policies of our operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies (Note 2).

As of December 31, 2012, the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco were located offshore Nigeria, the Pacific Mistral was located offshore Brazil, the Pacific Santa Ana was located offshore the United States and the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem were located offshore South Korea, where they are under construction by SHI.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the percentage revenues earned by geographic area as follows is based on drilling location:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Nigeria		63.6	%		100.0	%		—
Brazil		22.1	%		—			—
Gulf of Mexico		14.3	%		—			—

Note 18—Earnings per Share

On March 11, 2011, Pacific Drilling S.A. was formed by Quantum as a Luxembourg company with a share capital of 50,000 common shares. On March 30, 2011, the Board of Pacific Drilling S.A. resolved to split the 50,000 incorporation common shares into 5,000,000 common shares. Further, Pacific Drilling S.A. issued 145,000,000 common shares to Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Quantum, to become the indirect shareholder of all issued Pacific Drilling Limited common shares.

F-31

In computing earnings per common share, the reported share and per share amounts for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 has been retrospectively restated to reflect the Restructuring that occurred on March 30, 2011. The following reflects the income and the share data used in the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012		2011			2010
	(in thousands, except share and per share information)
Numerator:
Net income (loss), basic and diluted	$	33,989	$	(2,903	) $		37,299
Denominator:
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic		216,901,000		195,447,944			150,000,000
Effect of share-based compensation awards		2,159		—			—
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted		216,903,159		195,447,944			150,000,000
Earnings (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.16	$	(0.01	) $		0.25
Diluted	$	0.16	$	(0.01	) $		0.25

For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the computation of diluted earnings per common share excludes shares of potentially dilutive common shares related to stock options and restricted stock units since the effect would have been anti-dilutive. For the year ended December 31, 2010, the computation of diluted earnings per common share excludes shares of potentially dilutive common shares related to stock options because the Company anticipated settling those stock options in cash.

Note 19—Supplemental Cash Flow Information

During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, we paid $70.9 million and $3.0 million of interest, net of amounts capitalized, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2010, all amounts paid for interest were capitalized. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we paid income taxes of $19.3 million, $0.5 million, and $0, respectively.

Capital expenditures in our consolidated statements of cash flows include the effect of changes in accrued capital expenditures, which are capital expenditures that were accrued but unpaid at period end. We have included these amounts in accounts payable, accrued expenses and accrued interest in our consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2012 and 2011. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, capital expenditures includes the decrease in accrued capital expenditures of $4.0 million and the increase in accrued capital expenditures of $1.3 million and $79.4 million in our consolidated statements of cash flows, respectively.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, non-cash amortization of deferred financing costs and accretion of debt discount totaling $3.6 million, $13.2 million and $3.0 million, respectively, were capitalized to property and equipment. Accordingly, these amounts are excluded from capital expenditures in our consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010.

Note 20—Liquidity

Our liquidity requirements include funding ongoing working capital needs, repaying our outstanding indebtedness and anticipated capital expenditures, which largely comprise our progress payments for our ultra-deepwater drillship construction projects, and maintaining adequate cash reserves to compensate the effects of fluctuations in operating cash flows.

F-32

As of December 31, 2012, we have taken delivery of four of our ultra-deepwater drillships, all of which are operating under long-term drilling contracts. The Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana commenced drilling operations on August 26, 2011, December 31, 2011, February 6, 2012 and May 4, 2012, respectively. Additionally, the Pacific Sharav entered into a five-year drilling contract in June 2012 and the Pacific Khamsin entered into a two-year drilling contract in November 2012.

Our ability to meet these liquidity requirements will depend in large part on our future operating and financial performance. Primary sources of funds for our short-term liquidity needs will be cash flow generated from operating and financing activities and available cash balances. Our liquidity fluctuates depending on a number of factors, including, among others, our revenue efficiency and the timing of collecting accounts receivable as well as amounts paid for operating costs. We believe that our cash on hand and cash flows generated from operating and financing activities will provide sufficient liquidity over the next twelve months to fund our working capital needs, amortization payments on our long-term debt and anticipated capital expenditures for the Company’s ultra-deepwater drillship construction projects.

Note 21—Subsequent Events

In January 2013, we exercised our option and entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of our eighth drillship, which is expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2015.

On February 19, 2013, Pacific Sharav S.à r.l. and Pacific Drilling VII Limited (collectively, the “Borrowers”), and Pacific Drilling S.A. (the “Guarantor”) (collectively, the “Borrowing Group”) entered into a senior secured credit facility agreement with a group of lenders to finance the construction, operation and other costs associated with the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem (the “Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement” or “SSCF”).

The SSCF includes a term loan (the “SSCF Term Loan”) which consists of two tranches: (i) a tranche of $500.0 million provided by a syndicate of nine commercial banks (the “Commercial Tranche”) and (ii) a tranche of $500.0 million provided by Eksportkreditt Norge AS (and guaranteed by the Norwegian Guarantee Institute for Export Credits) (the “GIEK Tranche”). The SSCF Term Loan will become available upon the satisfaction of customary conditions precedent, as described therein.

Borrowings under the Commercial Tranche bear interest at the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus a margin of 3.5%. Borrowings under the GIEK Tranche bear interest, at the Borrower’s option, at (i) LIBOR plus a margin of 1.50% (which margin may be reset 60 months after the first borrowing under the SSCF Term Loan) or (ii) at a Commercial Interest Reference Rate (“CIRR”) of (a) 3.96% for borrowings relating to the Pacific Sharav and (b) 2.37% for borrowings relating to the Pacific Meltem. Borrowings under the GIEK Tranche will also be subject to a guarantee fee of 2.00% per annum (the “GIEK Premium”). Undrawn commitments for the SSCF Term Loan shall bear a fee equal to (i) in the case of the Commercial Tranche, 40% of the margin for such tranche and (ii) in the case of the GIEK Tranche, 40% of the applicable margin for such tranche and 40% of the GIEK Premium.

The Commercial Tranche matures on the earlier of (i) five years following the delivery of the second vessel under the SSCF and (ii) May 31, 2019. The GIEK Tranche matures (for each vessel) twelve years following the delivery of the applicable vessel. The GIEK Tranche contains a put option exercisable if the Commercial Tranche is not refinanced on terms acceptable to GIEK. If the GIEK Tranche put option is exercised, each Borrower must prepay, in full, the portion of all outstanding loans that relate to the GIEK Tranche, on the maturity date of the Commercial Tranche, without any premium, penalty or fees of any kind. Amortization payments under the SSCF Term Loan are calculated on a 12 year repayment schedule and must be made every six months following the delivery of the relevant vessel.

F-33

SCHEDULE I—CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.

(PARENT ONLY)

Statement of Operations

(in thousands, except share and per share information)

	For the year ended December 31, 2012			For the period March 11, 2011 (inception) to December 31, 2011
General and administrative expenses	$	(4,147	)	$	(1,295	)
Operating loss		(4,147	)		(1,295	)
Equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries		42,906			(10,757	)
Interest expense		(4,510	)		—
Other income		(260	)		14
Net income (loss)	$	33,989		$	(12,038	)
Earnings (loss) per common share, basic	$	0.16		$	(0.06	)
Weighted average number of common shares, basic		216,901,000			210,321,818
Earnings (loss) per common share, diluted	$	0.16		$	(0.06	)
Weighted average number of common shares, diluted		216,903,159			210,321,818

F-34

SCHEDULE I—CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.

(PARENT ONLY)

Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

(in thousands)

	For the year ended December 31, 2012			For the period March 11, 2011 (inception) to December 31, 2011
Net income (loss)	$	33,989		$	(12,038	)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrecognized loss on derivative instruments		(22,551	)		(62,086	)
Reclassification adjustment for loss on derivative instruments realized in net income		24,419			1,802
Total other comprehensive income (loss)		1,868			(60,284	)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	35,857		$	(72,322	)

F-35

SCHEDULE I—CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.

(PARENT ONLY)

Balance Sheet

(in thousands, except share amounts)

	December 31,
	2012			2011
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	155		$	7,226
Amount due from subsidiaries		997			—
Deferred financing costs		2,036			—
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		545			61
Total current assets		3,733			7,287
Investment in subsidiary		2,647,215			2,277,787
Deferred financing costs		2,206			—
Other assets		—			76
Total assets	$	2,653,154		$	2,285,150
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	$	706		$	568
Amount due to subsidiary		28,469			10,509
Accrued interest payable		8,731			—
Total current liabilities		37,906			11,077
Long-term debt, net of current maturities		300,000			—
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders’ equity:
Common shares, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000,000 shares authorized, 224,100,000 shares issued and 216,902,000 and 216,900,000 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively		2,169			2,169
Additional paid-in capital		2,349,544			2,344,226
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(58,416	)		(60,284	)
Accumulated deficit		21,951			(12,038	)
Total shareholders’ equity		2,315,248			2,274,073
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	2,653,154		$	2,285,150

F-36

SCHEDULE I—CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.

(PARENT ONLY)

Statement of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

	For the year ended December 31, 2012			For the period March 11, 2011 (inception) to December 31, 2011
Cash flow from operating activities:		10,031			(11,845	)
Cash flow from investing activities:
Capital contributions to consolidated subsidiaries		(310,994	)		(606,745	)
Cash flow from financing activities:
Issuance of common shares		—			625,816
Proceeds from long-term debt		300,000			—
Deferred financing costs		(6,108	)		—
Net cash provided by financing activities		293,892			625,816
Decrease (increase) in cash and cash equivalents		(7,071	)		7,226
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		7,226			—
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	155		$	7,226

F-37

EX-4.18

Exhibit 4.18

SECOND AMENDMENT AGREEMENT IN RESPECT OF THE PROJECT

FACILITIES AGREEMENT

among

PACIFIC BORA LTD., PACIFIC MISTRAL LTD., PACIFIC SCIROCCO LTD. and

PACIFIC SANTA ANA S.À.R.L.

as the Borrowers

PACIFIC DRILLING LIMITED

as the Guarantor

PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL DRILLING WEST AFRICA LIMITED and PACIFIC

DRILLING (GIBRALTAR) LTD

DNB BANK ASA, CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE & INVESTMENT BANK,

CITIBANK, N.A., DVB BANK SE, NORDIC BRANCH, DANSKE BANK,

NORWEGIAN BRANCH, NIBC BANK N.V., NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC, NEW

YORK BRANCH and SKANDINAVISKA ENSKILDA BANKEN AB (PUBL.)

as the Mandated Lead Arrangers

THE COMMERCIAL FACILITY LENDERS LISTED IN SCHEDULE 1

as the Commercial Facility Lenders

THE NORWEGIAN GOVERNMENT, REPRESENTED BY THE MINISTRY OF

TRADE AND INDUSTRY

as the GIEK Facility Lender

THE EXPORT-IMPORT BANK OF KOREA

as the KEXIM Facility Lender

THE HEDGING PARTIES LISTED IN SCHEDULE 2

as the Hedging Parties

DNB BANK ASA

as the Commercial Facility Agent and GIEK Facility Agent

CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE & INVESTMENT BANK

as the KEXIM Facility Agent

DNB BANK ASA

as the Security Trustee, Intercreditor Agent and Accounts Bank

and

CITIBANK, N.A. (NEW YORK BRANCH)

as the Operating Accounts Bank and the TI Bond Facility Accounts Bank

TABLE OF CONTENTS

		Page
1.	INTERPRETATION	2
2.	AMENDMENT OF THE PROJECT FACILITIES AGREEMENT	2
3.	GUARANTOR AND SECURITY CONFIRMATION	3
4.	REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES	4
5.	MISCELLANEOUS	4
6.	GOVERNING LAW	4
SCHEDULE 1 COMMERCIAL FACILITY LENDERS		5
SCHEDULE 2 HEDGING PARTIES		6
SCHEDULE 3 CONDITIONS PRECEDENT		7
SCHEDULE 4 REPAYMENT SCHEDULES		9

THIS SECOND AMENDMENT AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is dated 28 December 2012 and made between:

(1) PACIFIC BORA LTD., PACIFIC MISTRAL LTD., and PACIFIC SCIROCCO LTD. each a corporation organised and existing under the laws of Liberia, and PACIFIC SANTA ANA S.À.R.L., a private limited company (société à responsabilité limitée) incorporated under the laws of Luxembourg, having its registered office at 37, rue d’Anvers, L-1130, Luxembourg, having a share capital of USD 20,002 and registered with the Luxembourg trade and companies register under number B 167.700 (as the “Borrowers”);

(2) PACIFIC DRILLING LIMITED, a corporation organised and existing under the laws of Liberia (as the “Guarantor”);

(3) PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL DRILLING WEST AFRICA LIMITED, a corporation organised and existing under the laws of Nigeria (“PIDWAL”);

(4) PACIFIC DRILLING (GIBRALTAR) LTD, a company incorporated and existing under the laws of Gibraltar (“Pacific Gibco”);

(5) DNB BANK ASA (formerly known as DnB NOR Bank ASA (New York Branch), CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE & INVESTMENT BANK, CITIBANK, N.A., DVB BANK SE, NORDIC BRANCH, DANSKE BANK, NORWEGIAN BRANCH, NIBC BANK N.V., NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC, NEW YORK BRANCH and SKANDINAVISKA ENSKILDA BANKEN AB (PUBL.) (as the “Mandated Lead Arrangers”);

(6) THE COMMERCIAL FACILITY LENDERS LISTED IN SCHEDULE 1 (as the “Commercial Facility Lenders”);

(7) THE NORWEGIAN GOVERNMENT, REPRESENTED BY THE MINISTRY OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY (as the “GIEK Facility Lender”);

(8) THE EXPORT-IMPORT BANK OF KOREA (as the “KEXIM Facility Lender”);

(9) THE HEDGING PARTIES LISTED IN SCHEDULE 2 (as the “Hedging Parties”);

(10) DNB BANK ASA (as the “Commercial Facility Agent”);

(11) DNB BANK ASA (as the “GIEK Facility Agent”);

(12) CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE & INVESTMENT BANK (as the “KEXIM Facility Agent”);

(13) DNB BANK ASA (on behalf of each of the Secured Parties) (as the “Security Trustee”);

(14) DNB BANK ASA (as the “Intercreditor Agent”);

(15) DNB BANK ASA (as the “Accounts Bank”);

(16) CITIBANK, N.A. (NEW YORK BRANCH) (as the “Operating Accounts Bank”); and

(17) CITIBANK, N.A. (NEW YORK BRANCH) (as the “TI Bond Facility Accounts Bank”);

(each a “Party” and together the “Parties”).

WHEREAS:

(A) the Borrowers, the Guarantor, the Mandated Lead Arrangers, the Commercial Facility Lenders, the GIEK Facility Lender, the KEXIM Facility Lender, the Hedging Parties, the Commercial Facility Agent, the GIEK Facility Agent, the KEXIM Facility Agent, the Security Trustee, the Intercreditor Agent, the Accounts Bank, the Operating Accounts Bank and the TI Bond Facility Accounts Bank are all parties to a project facilities agreement dated 9 September 2010, as amended on 16 November 2010, as first amended and restated on 30 March 2011 and as further amended and restated on 30 March 2012 and 19 April 2012, and as otherwise amended and/or restated from time to time (the “Project Facilities Agreement”); and

1

(B) the Parties have agreed to enter into this Agreement in order further to amend the Project Facilities Agreement in the manner set out below,

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and adequacy of which are acknowledged, the Parties agree as follows:

1. INTERPRETATION

1.1 Definitions

In this Agreement:

“Chargor” means each of Pacific Gibco and PIDWAL;

“Effective Date” means the date upon which the Intercreditor Agent (acting on the instructions of Facility Agents representing one hundred per cent. of the Lenders) notifies each Facility Agent and the Guarantor that it has received copies of each of the documents listed in Schedule 3 (Conditions precedent) in form and substance satisfactory to it, and that all of the other conditions precedent listed in Schedule 3 (Conditions precedent) have been satisfied or waived; and

“PIDWAL Share Pledge” means the agreement entitled “Charge Over Shares” dated 30 August 2012 and entered into between PIDWAL as Chargor and DNB Bank ASA as Security Trustee in respect of PIDWAL’s shares in Pacific Scirocco Ltd.

1.2 Construction

(a) Except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement, capitalised terms used in this Agreement shall have the meanings given to them in the Project Facilities Agreement, as the Project Facilities Agreement shall be further amended in accordance with this Agreement. To the extent such terms are defined by reference to any other Transaction Document, for the purposes of this Agreement, such terms shall continue to have their original definitions (but shall be subject to and interpreted in accordance with the governing law of this Agreement) notwithstanding any termination, expiration or amendment of any such Transaction Document, except to the extent the Parties agree to the contrary.

(b) Clause 1.2 (Interpretation) of the Project Facilities Agreement will be deemed to be set out in full in this Agreement, save that references therein to “this Agreement” shall be construed as references to this Agreement.

(c) With effect from (and including) the Effective Date and unless the context otherwise requires, references in the Project Facilities Agreement to “this Agreement” shall be references to the Project Facilities Agreement as amended by this Agreement and words such as “herein”, “hereof, “hereunder”, “hereafter”, “hereby” and “hereto”, where they appear in the Project Facilities Agreement shall be construed accordingly.

1.3 Deed

The Parties intend that this Agreement shall take effect as a deed, notwithstanding that a party to it may only execute it under hand.

2. AMENDMENT OF THE PROJECT FACILITIES AGREEMENT

2.1 Amendments

With effect from (and including) the Effective Date:

(a) the Project Facilities Agreement shall be amended as follows:

(i) clause 7.1 (Selection of Interest Periods) of the Project Facilities Agreement shall be amended such that the words “or six” shall be deleted from each of sub-clauses (d) and (f);

2

(ii) clause 7.1 (Selection of Interest Periods) of the Project Facilities Agreement shall be amended such that the words “or six months” shall be deleted from sub-clause (e);

(iii) the definition of “Monthly Principal Factor” in schedule 1 (Definitions) to the Project Facilities Agreement shall be amended such that each occurrence of the word “six” shall be deleted and replaced with the word “three”; and

(iv) the definition of “Repayment Date” in schedule 1 (Definitions) to the Project Facilities Agreement shall be amended such that each occurrence of the word “six” shall be deleted and replaced with the word “three”; and

(b) the Repayment Schedules set out in Schedule 4 (Repayment Schedules) shall be the applicable Repayment Schedules in respect of each Tranche.

2.2 Continuing effect

Except as varied by the terms of this Agreement, the Project Facilities Agreement will remain in full force and effect and, with effect from (and including) the Effective Date, any reference in the Project Facilities Agreement or any other Finance Document to the Project Facilities Agreement or to any provision of the Project Facilities Agreement will be construed as a reference to the Project Facilities Agreement or that provision (as the case may be), as amended by this Agreement.

2.3 Further assurance

Each Obligor shall, at the request of the Intercreditor Agent and at its own expense, do all such acts and things necessary or desirable to give effect to the amendments effected or to be effected pursuant to this Agreement.

2.4 Finance Documents

The Parties agree that this Agreement is designated as a Finance Document.

3. GUARANTOR AND SECURITY CONFIRMATION

3.1 Guarantee confirmation

The Guarantor confirms that, with effect from (and including) the Effective Date, the guarantees and indemnities set out in clause 15 (Guarantee) of the Project Facilities Agreement, as amended by this Agreement, shall:

(a) continue to apply in respect of the obligations of each Borrower under the Finance Documents; and

(b) extend to all new obligations of any Borrower under the Finance Documents arising from the amendments effected by this Agreement.

3.2 Guarantor waiver of defences

The Guarantor hereby waives any defences or counterclaims it may have to its obligations under clause 15 (Guarantees) of the Project Facilities Agreement, as amended by this Agreement, as a result of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

3.3 Security confirmation

Each Obligor and each Chargor confirms that, with effect from (and including) the Effective Date, the liabilities and obligations arising in respect of the Senior Debt, howsoever arising, owed by the Obligors under the Project Facilities Agreement, as amended by this Agreement, or owed under any other Finance Document shall form part of (but do not limit) the Senior Debt Obligations.

3.4 No novation

Each of the Parties confirms that the amendment of the Project Facilities Agreement pursuant to this Agreement shall not constitute a novation of the Project Facilities Agreement.

3

4. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

4.1 Obligor representations and warranties

Each Obligor makes each of the Repeating Representations relating to it for the benefit of the Secured Parties as of the date of this Agreement, and such representations and warranties shall be deemed to be repeated on the Effective Date by reference to the facts and circumstances existing on that date.

4.2 PIDWAL representations and warranties

(a) PIDWAL makes each of the representations and warranties set out in clause 6 (Representations and warranties) of the PIDWAL Share Pledge for the benefit of the Secured Parties as of the date of this Agreement, and such representations and warranties shall be deemed to be repeated on the Effective Date by reference to the facts and circumstances existing on that date.

(b) For the purposes of this Clause 4.2 (PIDWAL representations and warranties), references to “this Charge” in clauses 6.2 (Organisation), 6.3 (Legality, validity and enforceability), 6.6 (Consent), 6.7 (No conflict), 6.8 (No proceedings), 6.9 (Immunity) and 6.11 (Governing law and enforcement) of the PIDWAL Share Pledge also shall be deemed to refer to this Agreement.

4.3 Pacific Gibco representations and warranties

(a) Pacific Gibco makes each of the representations and warranties set out in clause 6 (Representations and warranties) of the Pacific Gibco Share Pledge for the benefit of the Secured Parties as of the date of this Agreement, and such representations and warranties shall be deemed to be repeated on the Effective Date by reference to the facts and circumstances existing on that date.

(b) For the purposes of this Clause 4.3 (Pacific Gibco representations and warranties), references to “this Charge” in clauses 6.2 (Organisation), 6.3 (Legality, validity and enforceability), 6.6 (Consent), 6.7 (No conflict), 6.8 (No proceedings), 6.9 (Immunity) and 6.11 (Governing law and enforcement) of the Pacific Gibco Share Pledge also shall be deemed to refer to this Agreement.

5. MISCELLANEOUS

5.1 Counterparts

This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts and this has the same effect as if the signatures on the counterparts were on a single copy of this Agreement.

5.2 Incorporation of terms

Each Party agrees that the provisions of clauses 1.3 (Third party rights), 36.2 (Jurisdiction), 36.3 (Service of process), 37.1 (Notices), 37.4 (Amendments), 37.6 (Delay and waiver), 37.7 (Entire agreement), 37.8 (Successors and assigns), 37.9 (Severability), 37.10 (Reinstatement), 37.12 (Termination), 37.13 (No partnership), 37.14 (No reliance), 37.15 (English language) and 37.16 (Waiver of Immunity) of the Project Facilities Agreement are incorporated into this Agreement as if such provisions were set out, mutatis mutandis, in this Agreement.

6. GOVERNING LAW

This Agreement and any non-contractual obligations arising out of or in connection with it are governed by English law.

IN WITNESS whereof this Agreement has been duly executed as a deed on the date first above written.

4

SCHEDULE 1

COMMERCIAL FACILITY LENDERS

ABN AMRO Bank N.V., Oslo Branch

Citibank, N.A.

Crédit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank

DNB Bank ASA

DVB Bank SE, Nordic Branch

Danske Bank, Norwegian Branch

NIBC Bank N.V.

Nordea Bank Finland Plc, New York Branch

Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB (publ.)

Standard Chartered Bank

5

SCHEDULE 2

HEDGING PARTIES

Citibank, N.A.

Danske Bank A/S

DNB Bank ASA

NIBC Bank N.V.

Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB (publ.)

Credit Agricole Corporate & Investment Bank

6

SCHEDULE 3

CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

1. FINANCE DOCUMENTS

There shall have been delivered to the Intercreditor Agent by or on behalf of the Obligors and the Chargors, an executed original of this Agreement.

2. CORPORATE AUTHORITY OF OBLIGORS

(a) Each Obligor and each Chargor shall have delivered to the Intercreditor Agent, a copy of one or more resolutions or other authorisations of such Obligor or Chargor (as applicable), certified by an Authorised Representative of such Obligor or Chargor (as applicable) as being in full force and effect on the date of this Agreement authorising:

(i) the execution and delivery and performance of this Agreement; and

(ii) a specified Person or Persons (including any applicable attorney) to execute and deliver the agreements described in paragraph 2(a)(i) above to which it is a party.

(b) Each Obligor and each Chargor shall have delivered to the Intercreditor Agent a specimen of the signature of each Person authorised by the resolution referred to in paragraph 2(a) above and any other relevant authorisations including any applicable powers of attorney.

(c) Each Obligor and each Chargor shall have delivered to the Intercreditor Agent a certificate of good standing or an equivalent document, to the extent such document is available in the relevant jurisdiction.

3. OPINIONS

The Intercreditor Agent shall have received electronic copies of each of the following opinions in form and substance satisfactory to it:

(a) an English law legal opinion of Latham & Watkins (London) LLP in respect of the enforceability under English law of this Agreement;

(b) a Liberian law legal opinion of Blank Rome LLP in respect of the capacity of each Obligor incorporated under the laws of Liberia to enter into this Agreement;

(c) a Luxembourg law legal opinion of Allen & Overy Luxembourg in respect of the capacity of Pacific Santa Ana S.à r.l. to enter into this Agreement;

(d) a Gibraltar law legal opinion of Hassans in respect of the capacity of Pacific Gibco to enter into this Agreement; and

(e) a Nigerian law legal opinion of Aluko & Oyebode in respect of the capacity of PIDWAL to enter into this Agreement.

4. FEES, COSTS AND EXPENSES

(a) The Guarantor shall have provided evidence to the Intercreditor Agent that all fees, costs and expenses then due from any Obligor to any Secured Party pursuant to the Finance Documents have been paid in full.

7

(b) The Intercreditor Agent shall have confirmed that it has received payment from the Guarantor of a fee equal to US$ 728,125 (being an amount equal to 0.05% of the Total Commitments under the Project Facilities Agreement), which fee will be payable by the Guarantor to the Intercreditor Agent for the benefit of each Lender that is party to the Project Facilities Agreement as at the date of this Agreement, in an amount pro rata to each such Lender’s Commitment on such date.

5. EVENTS OF DEFAULT

No Event of Default or Potential Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing.

8

SCHEDULE 4

REPAYMENT SCHEDULES

DETAILS
Notional Schedule			A		B		B-A
Period Start	Period End		Old Amort.		New Amort.		Repmt Variance
30-Apr-11		31-Jul-11	$	425,000,000	$	425,000,000
31-Jul-11		31-Oct-11	$	425,000,000	$	425,000,000
31-Oct-11		31-Jan-12	$	400,000,000	$	400,000,000
31-Jan-12		30-Apr-12	$	400,000,000	$	400,000,000
30-Apr-12		31-Jul-12	$	375,000,000	$	375,000,000
31-Jul-12		31-Oct-12	$	375,000,000	$	375,000,000
31-Oct-12		31-Jan-13	$	350,000,000	$	350,000,000		—
31-Jan-13		30-Apr-13	$	350,000,000	$	337,500,000		(12,500,000	)
30-Apr-13		31-Jul-13	$	325,000,000	$	325,000,000		—
31-Jul-13		31-Oct-13	$	325,000,000	$	312,500,000		(12,500,000	)
31-Oct-13		31-Jan-14	$	300,000,000	$	300,000,000		—
31-Jan-14		30-Apr-14	$	300,000,000	$	287,500,000		(12,500,000	)
30-Apr-14		31-Jul-14	$	275,000,000	$	275,000,000		—
31-Jul-14		31-Oct-14	$	275,000,000	$	262,500,000		(12,500,000	)
31-Oct-14		31-Jan-15	$	250,000,000	$	250,000,000		—
31-Jan-15		30-Apr-15	$	250,000,000	$	237,500,000		(12,500,000	)
30-Apr-15		31-Jul-15	$	225,000,000	$	225,000,000		—
31-Jul-15		31-Oct-15	$	225,000,000	$	212,500,000		(12,500,000	)
31-Oct-15		31-Oct-15	$	200,000,000	$	200,000,000		—
Balloon			$	200,000,000		200,000,000

9

DETAILS
Notional Schedule			A		B		B-A
Period Start	Period End		Old Amort.		New Amort.		Repmt Variance
28-Apr-11		29-Jul-11	$	106,000,000	$	106,000,000
29-Jul-11		31-Oct-11	$	106,000,000	$	106,000,000
31-Oct-11		31-Jan-12	$	450,000,000	$	450,000,000
31-Jan-12		30-Apr-12	$	450,000,000	$	450,000,000
30-Apr-12		31-Jul-12	$	418,750,000	$	418,750,000
31-Jul-12		31-Oct-12	$	418,750,000	$	418,750,000
31-Oct-12		31-Jan-13	$	387,500,000	$	387,500,000		—
31-Jan-13		30-Apr-13	$	387,500,000	$	371,875,000		(15,625,000	)
30-Apr-13		31-Jul-13	$	356,250,000	$	356,250,000		—
31-Jul-13		31-Oct-13	$	356,250,000	$	340,625,000		(15,625,000	)
31-Oct-13		29-Jan-14	$	325,000,000	$	325,000,000		—
29-Jan-14		30-Apr-14	$	325,000,000	$	309,375,000		(15,625,000	)
30-Apr-14		31-Jul-14	$	293,750,000	$	293,750,000		—
31-Jul-14		31-Oct-14	$	293,750,000	$	278,125,000		(15,625,000	)
31-Oct-14		30-Jan-15	$	262,500,000	$	262,500,000		—
30-Jan-15		30-Apr-15	$	262,500,000	$	246,875,000		(15,625,000	)
30-Apr-15		31-Jul-15	$	231,250,000	$	231,250,000		—
31-Jul-15		31-Oct-15	$	231,250,000	$	215,625,000		(15,625,000	)
31-Oct-15		31-Oct-15	$	200,000,000	$	200,000,000		—
Balloon			$	200,000,000		200,000,000

10

DETAILS
Notional Schedule			A		B		B-A
Period Start	Period End		Old Amort.		New Amort.		Repmt Variance
31-May-11		31-Aug-11	$	200,000,000	$	200,000,000
29-Jul-11		31-Oct-11	$	375,000,000	$	375,000,000
31-Oct-11		31-Jan-12	$	375,000,000	$	375,000,000
31-Jan-12		30-Apr-12	$	375,000,000	$	375,000,000
30-Apr-12		31-Jul-12	$	353,125,000	$	353,125,000
31-Jul-12		31-Oct-12	$	353,125,000	$	353,125,000
31-Oct-12		31-Jan-13	$	331,250,000	$	331,250,000		—
31-Jan-13		30-Apr-13	$	331,250,000	$	320,312,500		(10,937,500	)
30-Apr-13		31-Jul-13	$	309,375,000	$	309,375,000		—
31-Jul-13		31-Oct-13	$	309,375,000	$	298,437,500		(10,937,500	)
31-Oct-13		29-Jan-14	$	287,500,000	$	287,500,000		—
29-Jan-14		30-Apr-14	$	287,500,000	$	276,562,500		(10,937,500	)
30-Apr-14		31-Jul-14	$	265,625,000	$	265,625,000		—
31-Jul-14		31-Oct-14	$	265,625,000	$	254,687,500		(10,937,500	)
31-Oct-14		30-Jan-15	$	243,750,000	$	243,750,000		—
30-Jan-15		30-Apr-15	$	243,750,000	$	232,812,500		(10,937,500	)
30-Apr-15		31-Jul-15	$	221,875,000	$	221,875,000		—
31-Jul-15		31-Oct-15	$	221,875,000	$	210,937,500		(10,937,500	)
31-Oct-15		31-Oct-15	$	200,000,000	$	200,000,000		—
Balloon			$	200,000,000		200,000,000

11

DETAILS
Notional Schedule			A		B		B-A
Period Start	Period End		Old Amort.		New Amort.		Repmt Variance
31-May-11		31-Aug-11	$	200,000,000	$	200,000,000
31-Aug-11		31-Oct-11	$	450,000,000	$	450,000,000
31-Oct-11		31-Jan-12	$	450,000,000	$	450,000,000
31-Jan-12		30-Apr-12	$	450,000,000	$	450,000,000
30-Apr-12		31-Jul-12	$	418,750,000	$	418,750,000
31-Jul-12		31-Oct-12	$	418,750,000	$	418,750,000
31-Oct-12		31-Jan-13	$	387,500,000	$	387,500,000		—
31-Jan-13		30-Apr-13	$	387,500,000	$	371,875,000		(15,625,000	)
30-Apr-13		31-Jul-13	$	356,250,000	$	356,250,000		—
31-Jul-13		31-Oct-13	$	356,250,000	$	340,625,000		(15,625,000	)
31-Oct-13		29-Jan-14	$	325,000,000	$	325,000,000		—
29-Jan-14		30-Apr-14	$	325,000,000	$	309,375,000		(15,625,000	)
30-Apr-14		31-Jul-14	$	293,750,000	$	293,750,000		—
31-Jul-14		31-Oct-14	$	293,750,000	$	278,125,000		(15,625,000	)
31-Oct-14		30-Jan-15	$	262,500,000	$	262,500,000		—
30-Jan-15		30-Apr-15	$	262,500,000	$	246,875,000		(15,625,000	)
30-Apr-15		31-Jul-15	$	231,250,000	$	231,250,000		—
31-Jul-15		31-Oct-15	$	231,250,000	$	215,625,000		(15,625,000	)
31-Oct-15		31-Oct-15	$	200,000,000	$	200,000,000		—
Balloon			$	200,000,000		200,000,000

12

DETAILS	TOTAL
Notional Schedule			A		B		B-A
Period Start	Period End		Old Amort.		New Amort.		Repmt Variance
				931,000,000		931,000,000
29-Jul-11		31-Oct-11		1,356,000,000		1,356,000,000
31-Oct-11		31-Jan-12		1,675,000,000		1,675,000,000
31-Jan-12		30-Apr-12		1,675,000,000		1,675,000,000
30-Apr-12		31-Jul-12		1,565,625,000		1,565,625,000
31-Jul-12		31-Oct-12		1,565,625,000		1,565,625,000
31-Oct-12		31-Jan-13		1,456,250,000		1,456,250,000		—
31-Jan-13		30-Apr-13		1,456,250,000		1,401,562,500		(54,687,500	)
30-Apr-13		31-Jul-13		1,346,875,000		1,346,875,000		—
31-Jul-13		31-Oct-13		1,346,875,000		1,292,187,500		(54,687,500	)
31-Oct-13		29-Jan-14		1,237,500,000		1,237,500,000		—
29-Jan-14		30-Apr-14		1,237,500,000		1,182,812,500		(54,687,500	)
30-Apr-14		31-Jul-14		1,128,125,000		1,128,125,000		—
31-Jul-14		31-Oct-14		1,128,125,000		1,073,437,500		(54,687,500	)
31-Oct-14		30-Jan-15		1,018,750,000		1,018,750,000		—
30-Jan-15		30-Apr-15		1,018,750,000		964,062,500		(54,687,500	)
30-Apr-15		31-Jul-15		909,375,000		909,375,000		—
31-Jul-15		31-Oct-15		909,375,000		854,687,500		(54,687,500	)
31-Oct-15		31-Oct-15		800,000,000		800,000,000		—
Balloon			$	800,000,000		800,000,000

13

SIGNATORIES

BORROWERS

EXECUTED as a deed by

PACIFIC BORA LTD.

as Borrower

acting by:    Christian J. Beckett

its authorised signatory

/s/ Christian J. Beckett

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of: Witness
Name:	Andrew Louis
Address:	3050 Post Oak Blvd, Ste 1500
	Houston, TX 77056
Occupation:	Attorney

14

EXECUTED as a deed by

PACIFIC MISTRAL LTD.

as Borrower

acting by:    Christian J. Beckett

its authorised signatory

/s/ Christian J. Beckett

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of: Witness
Name:	Andrew Louis
Address:	3050 Post Oak Blvd, Ste 1500
	Houston, TX 77056
Occupation:	Attorney

15

EXECUTED as a deed by

PACIFIC SCIROCCO LTD.

as Borrower

acting by:    Christian J. Beckett

its authorised signatory

/s/ Christian J. Beckett

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of: Witness
Name:	Andrew Louis
Address:	3050 Post Oak Blvd, Ste 1500
	Houston, TX 77056
Occupation:	Attorney

16

EXECUTED as a deed by

PACIFIC SANTA ANA S.À.R.L.

as Borrower

acting by:    Fred Vleghert

its authorised signatory

/s/ Fred Vleghert

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of: Witness
Name:	Wayne Vermeulen
Address:	Eleganza Estate Lagos
Occupation:	Controller

17

GUARANTOR

EXECUTED as a deed by

PACIFIC DRILLING LIMITED

as Guarantor

acting by:    Christian J. Beckett

its authorised signatory

/s/ Christian J. Beckett

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of: Witness
Name:	Andrew Louis
Address:	3050 Post Oak Blvd, Ste 1500 Houston, TX 77056
Occupation:	Attorney

18

EXECUTED as a deed by affixing

THE COMMON SEAL of the within-named

PACIFIC INTERNATIONAL DRILLING WEST AFRICA LIMITED

in the presence of:

/s/ Fred Vleghert	ADCAX NOMINEES LIMITED
DIRECTOR	DIRECTOR/SECRETARY

19

EXECUTED as a deed by

PACIFIC DRILLING (GIBRALTAR) LTD

acting by:    Christian J. Beckett

its authorised signatory

/s/ Christian J. Beckett

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Andrew Louis
Address:	3050 Post Oak Blvd, Ste 1500
	Houston, TX 77056
Occupation:	Attorney

20

MANDATED LEAD ARRANGERS

EXECUTED as a deed by

DNB BANK ASA

as Mandated Lead Arranger

acting by:    Florianne Robin

its authorised signatory

/s/ Florianne Robin

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Magnus Midigard
Address:	DND BANK ASA
	200 Park Avenue, 31st Floor
	New York, N.Y. 10166
	U.S.A.
Occupation:	Legal advisor

21

EXECUTED as a deed by

CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE & INVESTMENT BANK

as Mandated Lead Arranger

acting by:    Yannick Le Gourieres

its authorised signatory

/s/ Yannick Le Gourieres

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Sarah Stock
Address:	99 Bishopsgate
	London, EC2M 3XF
Occupation:	Paralegal

22

EXECUTED as a deed by

CITIBANK, N.A.

as Mandated Lead Arranger

acting by:     Robert Malleck

its authorised signatory

/s/ Robert Malleck

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of: Witness
Name:	Adrieme Tauboza
Address:	388 Greenwich St, FL34
	New York, NY 10013
Occupation:	Executive Assistant

23

EXECUTED as a deed by

DVB BANK SE, NORDIC BRANCH

as Mandated Lead Arranger

acting by:    Christian Ravna

its authorised signatory

/s/ Christian Ravna

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of: Witness
Name:	Espen Nilsen
Address:	BYGDOY ALLE 117 B
	0273 Oslo
Occupation:	Banker

24

EXECUTED as a deed by

DANSKE BANK, NORWEGIAN BRANCH

as Mandated Lead Arranger

acting by:    Einar Stavrum

its authorised signatory

/s/ Einar Stavrum

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Kristian Andersen
Address:	Danske Bank
	Oslo Norway
Occupation:	Analyst

25

EXECUTED as a deed by

NIBC BANK N.V.

as Mandated Lead Arranger

acting by:    Saskia Hovers

its authorised signatory

/s/ Saskia Hovers

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Krista van der
Address:	Carnegieplein 4
	Den Haag
Occupation:	Analyst

26

EXECUTED as a deed by

NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC, NEW YORK BRANCH

as Mandated Lead Arranger

acting by:    Martin Lunder

its authorised signatory

/s/ Martin Lunder

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Henning Lyche Christiansen
Address:	437 Madison Avenue,
	New York
Occupation:	First Vice President

27

EXECUTED as a deed by

SKANDINAVISKA ENSKILDA BANKEN AB (PUBL.)

as Mandated Lead Arranger

acting by:    Per Olav Bucher-Johannessen

its authorised signatory

/s/ Per Olav Bucher-Johannessen

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Anne Geelmuyden
Address:	Fritzners Gt 17 0264
	Olso, Norway
Occupation:	Account Manager

28

COMMERCIAL FACILITY LENDERS

EXECUTED as a deed by

DNB BANK ASA

as Commercial Facility Lender

acting by:    Florianne Robin

its authorised signatory

/s/ Florianne Robin

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Magnus Midigard
Address:	DND BANK ASA
	200 Park Avenue, 31st Floor
	New York, N.Y. 10166
	U.S.A.
Occupation:	Legal advisor

29

EXECUTED as a deed by

CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE & INVESTMENT BANK

as Commercial Facility Lender

acting by:    Yannick Le Gourieres

its authorised signatory

/s/ Yannick Le Gourieres

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Sarah Stock
Address:	99 Bishopsgate
	London, EC2M 3XF
Occupation:	Paralegal

30

EXECUTED as a deed by

ABN AMRO BANK N.V., OSLO BRANCH

as Commercial Facility Lender

acting by:     Bjorn P. Flaate

its authorised signatory

/s/ Bjorn P. Flaate

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Ole Sylvester Jensen
Address:	Olav VC Gate 5
	0161 Oslo, Norway
Occupation:	Bank/Finance

31

EXECUTED as a deed by

CITIBANK, N.A.

as Commercial Facility Lender

acting by:     Robert Malleck

its authorised signatory

/s/ Robert Malleck

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Adrieme Tauboza
Address:	388 Greenwich St, FL34
	New York, NY 10013
Occupation:	Executive Assistant

32

EXECUTED as a deed by

DVB BANK SE, NORDIC BRANCH

as Commercial Facility Lender

acting by:     Christian Ravna

its authorised signatory

/s/ Christian Ravna

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Espen Nilsen
Address:	BYGDOY ALLE 117 B
	0273 Oslo
Occupation:	Banker

33

EXECUTED as a deed by

DANSKE BANK, NORWEGIAN BRANCH

as Commercial Facility Lender

acting by:     Einar Stavrum

its authorised signatory

/s/ Einar Stavrum

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Kristian Andersen
Address:	Danske Bank
	Oslo Norway
Occupation:	Analyst

34

EXECUTED as a deed by

NIBC BANK N.V.

as Commercial Facility Lender

acting by:     Saskia Hovers

its authorised signatory

/s/ Saskia Hovers

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Krista van der
Address:	Carnegieplein 4
	Den Haag
Occupation:	Analyst

35

EXECUTED as a deed by

NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC, NEW YORK BRANCH

as Commercial Facility Lender

acting by:     Martin Lunder

its authorised signatory

/s/ Martin Lunder

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Henning Lyche Christiansen
Address:	437 Madison Avenue,
	New York
Occupation:	First Vice President

36

EXECUTED as a deed by

SKANDINAVISKA ENSKILDA BANKEN AB (PUBL.)

as Commercial Facility Lender

acting by:     Per Olav Bucher-Johannessen

its authorised signatory

/s/ Per Olav Bucher-Johannessen

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Anne Geelmuyden
Address:	Fritzners Gt 17 0264
	Olso, Norway
Occupation:	Account Manager

37

EXECUTED as a deed by

STANDARD CHARTERED BANK

as Commercial Facility Lender

acting by:     Wong Moy Hiang

its authorised signatory

/s/ Wong Moy Hiang

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Juan Carlos Gomez
Address:	3 Riverway, Suite 1330
	Houston, Texas 77056
Occupation:	Associate Director

38

GIEK FACILITY LENDER

EXECUTED as a deed by

THE NORWEGIAN GOVERNMENT, REPRESENTED BY THE MINISTRY OF

TRADE AND INDUSTRY, REPRESENTED BY EKSPORTKREDITT NORGE AS

as GIEK Facility Lender

acting by:    Tobias Huinden

its authorised signatory

/s/ Tobias Huinden

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Tom Stonjum
Address:	Hieronimus Heyerdahls Gate 1
	P.O. Box 1315 Vika, 0112
	Oslo, Nowary
Occupation:	Attorney at Law

39

KEXIM FACILITY LENDER

EXECUTED as a deed by

THE EXPORT-IMPORT BANK OF KOREA

as KEXIM Facility Lender

acting by:    Seo, Dong Wook

its authorised signatory

/s/ Seo, Dong Wook

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Kong, Hyung Mi
Address:	38 Euntiarig-ro
	Seoul, Korea
Occupation:	Loan Officer

40

COMMERCIAL FACILITY AGENT

EXECUTED as a deed by

DNB BANK ASA

as Commercial Facility Agent

acting by:    Florianne Robin

its authorised signatory

/s/ Florianne Robin

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Magnus Midigard
Address:	DND BANK ASA
	200 Park Avenue, 31st Floor
	New York, N.Y. 10166
	U.S.A.
Occupation:	Legal advisor

41

GIEK FACILITY AGENT

EXECUTED as a deed by

DNB BANK ASA

as GIEK Facility Agent

acting by:    Florianne Robin

its authorised signatory

/s/ Florianne Robin

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Magnus Midigard
Address:	DND BANK ASA
	200 Park Avenue, 31st Floor
	New York, N.Y. 10166
	U.S.A.
Occupation:	Legal advisor

42

KEXIM FACILITY AGENT

EXECUTED as a deed by

CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK

as KEXIM Facility Agent

acting by:    Yannick Le Gourieres

its authorised signatory

/s/ Yannick Le Gourieres

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Sarah Stock
Address:	99 Bishopsgate
	London, EC2M 3XF
Occupation:	Paralegal

43

INTERCREDITOR AGENT

EXECUTED as a deed by

DNB BANK ASA

as Intercreditor Agent

acting by:    Florianne Robin

its authorised signatory

/s/ Florianne Robin

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Magnus Midigard
Address:	DND BANK ASA
	200 Park Avenue, 31st Floor
	New York, N.Y. 10166
	U.S.A.
Occupation:	Legal advisor

44

SECURITY TRUSTEE

EXECUTED as a deed by

DNB BANK ASA

as Security Trustee

acting by:    Florianne Robin

its authorised signatory

/s/ Florianne Robin

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Magnus Midigard
Address:	DND BANK ASA
	200 Park Avenue, 31st Floor
	New York, N.Y. 10166
	U.S.A.
Occupation:	Legal advisor

45

ACCOUNTS BANK

EXECUTED as a deed by

DNB BANK ASA

as Accounts Bank

acting by:    Florianne Robin

its authorised signatory

/s/ Florianne Robin

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Magnus Midigard
Address:	DND BANK ASA
	200 Park Avenue, 31st Floor
	New York, N.Y. 10166
	U.S.A.
Occupation:	Legal advisor

46

OPERATING ACCOUNTS BANK

EXECUTED as a deed by

CITIBANK, N.A. (NEW YORK BRANCH)

as Operating Accounts Bank

acting by:    Robert Malleck

its authorised signatory

/s/ Robert Malleck

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of: Witness
Name:	Adrieme Tauboza
Address:	388 Greenwich St, FL34
	New York, NY 10013
Occupation:	Executive Assistant

47

TI BOND FACILITY ACCOUNTS BANK

EXECUTED as a deed by

CITIBANK, N.A. (NEW YORK BRANCH)

as TI Bond Facility Accounts Bank

acting by:    Robert Malleck

its authorised signatory

/s/ Robert Malleck

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Adrieme Tauboza
Address:	388 Greenwich St, FL34
	New York, NY 10013
Occupation:	Executive Assistant

48

HEDGING PARTIES

EXECUTED as a deed by

CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPRATE & INVESTMENT BANK

as Hedging Party

acting by:    Yannick Le Gourieres

its authorised signatory

/s/ Yannick Le Gourieres

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:
Witness
Name:	Sarah Stock
Address:	99 Bishopsgate
	London, EC2M 3XF
Occupation:	Paralegal

49

EXECUTED as a deed by

CITIBANK, N.A. (NEW YORK BRANCH)

as Hedging Party

acting by:    Robert Malleck

its authorised signatory

/s/ Robert Malleck

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Adrieme Tauboza
Address:	388 Greenwich St, FL34
	New York, NY 10013
Occupation:	Executive Assistant

50

EXECUTED as a deed by

DANSKE BANK A/S

as Hedging Party

acting by:    Lars Brynildsrud

its authorised signatory

/s/ Lars Brynildsrud

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Kristian Andersen
Address:	Danske Bank
	Oslo Norway
Occupation:	Analyst

51

EXECUTED as a deed by

DNB BANK ASA

as Hedging Party

acting by:    Florianne Robin

its authorised signatory

/s/ Florianne Robin

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Magnus Midigard
Address:	DND BANK ASA
	200 Park Avenue, 31st Floor
	New York, N.Y. 10166
	U.S.A.
Occupation:	Legal advisor

52

EXECUTED as a deed by

NIBC Bank N.V.

as Hedging Party

acting by:    Saskia Hovers

its authorised signatory

/s/ Saskia Hovers

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Krista van der
Address:	Carnegieplein 4
	Den Haag
Occupation:	Analyst

53

EXECUTED as a deed by

SKANDINAVISA ENSKILDA BANKEN AB (PUBL.)

as Hedging Party

acting by:    Per Olav Bucher-Johannessen

its authorised signatory

/s/ Per Olav Bucher-Johannessen

Authorised Signatory

In the presence of:

Witness

Name:	Anne Geelmuyden
Address:	Fritzners Gt 17 0264
	Olso, Norway
Occupation:	Account Manager

54

EX-8.1

Exhibit 8.1

Subsidiaries

Entity	Jurisdiction of Formation
Pacific Drilling do Brasil Investimentos Ltda.	Brazil
Pacific Drilling do Brasil Serviços de Perfuração Ltda	Brazil
Pacific Drilling Services Pte. Ltd.	Singapore
Pacific International Drilling West Africa Ltd.	Nigeria
Pacific Drilling Netherlands Coöperatief U.A.	The Netherlands
Pacific Drilling N.V.	Curacao
Pacific Drilling Administrator Ltd.	British Virgin Islands
Pacific Deepwater Construction Limited	British Virgin Islands
Pacific Drilling International Ltd.	British Virgin Islands
Pacific Drilling Manpower Ltd.	British Virgin Islands
Pacific Drilling Operations Limited	British Virgin Islands
Pacific Drilling South America 1 Limited	British Virgin Islands
Pacific Drilling South America 2 Limited	British Virgin Islands
Pacific Drilling V Limited	British Virgin Islands
Pacific Drilling VII Limited	British Virgin Islands
Pacific Drilling VIII Limited	British Virgin Islands
Pacific Bora Ltd.	Liberia
Pacific Mistral Ltd.	Liberia
Pacific Santa Ana Ltd.	Liberia
Pacific Scirocco Ltd.	Liberia
Pacific Drilling Limited	Liberia
Pacific Drilling, Inc.	USA, Delaware
Pacific Drilling International, LLC	USA, Delaware
Pacific Drilling Services, Inc.	USA, Delaware
Pacific Drilling Manpower, Inc.	USA, Delaware
Pacific Drilling Operations, Inc.	USA, Delaware
Pacific Drillship S.à r.l.	Luxembourg
Pacific Drilling Manpower S.à r.l.	Luxembourg
Pacific Santa Ana S.à r.l.	Luxembourg
Pacific Sharav S.à r.l.	Luxembourg
Pacific Drilling (Gibraltar) Limited	Gibraltar
Pacific Drillship (Gibraltar) Limited	Gibraltar
Pacific Drilling Holding (Gibraltar) Limited	Gibraltar

EX-12.1

Exhibit 12.1

CERTIFICATION

I, Christian J. Beckett, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Pacific Drilling S.A.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the company and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: February 28, 2013

By:	/s/ Christian J. Beckett
Name:	Christian J. Beckett
Title:	Chief Executive Officer

EX-12.2

Exhibit 12.2

CERTIFICATION

I, William J. Restrepo, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Pacific Drilling S.A.;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) for the company and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and the audit committee of the company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: February 28, 2013

By:	/s/ William J. Restrepo
Name:	William J. Restrepo
Title:	Chief Financial Officer

EX-13.1

Exhibit 13.1

PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICER CERTIFICATION

PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Subsections (a) and (b) of Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States Code), I, Christian J. Beckett, Chief Executive Officer, hereby certify, to my knowledge, that:

1. the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F for the for the year ended December 31, 2011 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

2. information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Date: February 28, 2013
By:	/s/    Christian J. Beckett
Name:	Christian J. Beckett
Title:	Chief Executive Officer

EX-13.2

Exhibit 13.2

PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL OFFICER CERTIFICATION

PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Subsections (a) and (b) of Section 1350, Chapter 63 of Title 18, United States Code), I, William J. Restrepo, Chief Financial Officer, hereby certify, to my knowledge, that:

1. the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2011 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

2. information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Date: February 28, 2013
By:	/s/    William J. Restrepo
Name:	William J. Restrepo
Title:	Chief Financial Officer

EX-15.1

Exhibit 15.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The Board of Directors

Pacific Drilling S.A.:

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the registration statement (No. 333-180485) on Form S-8 of Pacific Drilling S.A. of our reports dated February 28, 2013 with respect to the consolidated balance sheets of Pacific Drilling S.A. and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2012, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2012, which reports appear in the December 31, 2012 Annual Report on Form 20-F of Pacific Drilling S.A. We did not audit the financial statements of Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc. (TPDI – a 50% owned unconsolidated investee company). The Company’s investment in TPDI at December 31, 2011 was $0, and its equity in earnings of TPDI was $18,955,000 and $56,307,000 for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The financial statements of TPDI were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for TPDI, is based solely on the report of other auditors.

/s/ KPMG LLP

Houston, Texas

February 28, 2013

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Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Noncancelable Operating Leases

The future minimum lease payments under the non-cancelable operating leases with lease terms in excess of one year are as follows:

	(In thousands)
Years ending December 31,
2013	$	1,041
2014		1,057
2015		751
2016		738
2017		757
Thereafter		2,375
Total future minimum lease payments	$	6,719

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Maturities of Long Term Debt (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
2013	$ 218,750
2014	218,750
2015	1,318,750
2016
2017	$ 500,000

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Investment In and Notes Receivable from Joint Venture - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2012 Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc	Mar. 30, 2011 Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc Property	Dec. 31, 2012 Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc LIBOR	Mar. 30, 2011 Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc Predecessor
Schedule of Investments [Line Items]
Percentage of ownership interest							50.00%
Drillships under construction					2
Interest rate						2.00%
Loans maturity period				10 years
Loans maturity deferral period upon providing written notice				10 years
Reclassification adjustment for loss on derivative instruments realized in net income		$ 3,000,000	$ 11,500,000
Ineffectiveness gains (losses) of cash flow hedges		600,000	(300,000)
percentage of annual fee on letter of credit	4.20%
Letter of credit fee		$ 300,000	$ 900,000

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Fair Value Measurements - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012 8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds	Feb. 29, 2012 8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds	Dec. 31, 2012 2017 Senior Secured Notes	Nov. 30, 2012 2017 Senior Secured Notes
Fair Value Measurements [Line Items]
Fair value of long term debt			$ 308,900,000		$ 512,500,000
Long-term debt, non current	$ 2,034,958,000	$ 1,456,250,000	$ 300,000,000	$ 300,000,000	$ 497,500,000	$ 500,000,000

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Income Taxes - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Corporate income tax and municipal business tax rate	28.80%	28.80%
Gross deferred tax assets related to loss carry forwards	$ 4,671,000	$ 2,547,000
Deferred tax assets, valuation allowance	4,476,000	2,547,000
Indefinitely reinvested earnings	29,000,000
Estimated taxes if indefinitely reinvested earnings were distributed	400,000
Luxembourg
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Statutory rate	28.80%
Liberia
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Statutory rate	0.00%
Various worldwide tax jurisdictions
Income Taxes [Line Items]
Gross deferred tax assets related to loss carry forwards	$ 4,700,000	$ 2,500,000

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Percentage of Revenue Earned by Geographical Area (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Nigeria
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of revenue earned by geographical area	63.60%	100.00%
Brazil
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of revenue earned by geographical area	22.10%
Gulf of Mexico
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Percentage of revenue earned by geographical area	14.30%

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Property And Equipment (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 3,899,648	$ 3,448,106
Accumulated depreciation	(139,227)	(12,096)
Property and equipment, net	3,760,421	3,436,010
Drillships and Related Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Gross	3,892,623	3,435,665
Other Property And Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Gross	$ 7,025	$ 12,441

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Investment In and Notes Receivable from Joint Venture (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Summarized Consolidated Balance Sheet

A summarized consolidated balance sheet of TPDI is as follows:

	March 31, 2011
	(In thousands)
Balance sheet:
Current assets	$	193,479
Property and equipment, net		1,421,215
Other assets		8,957
Total assets	$	1,623,651
Current liabilities	$	275,022
Long-term liabilities		1,216,010
Shareholders’ equity		132,619
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	1,623,651

Summarized Consolidated Results of Operations

Summarized TPDI consolidated results of operations are as follows:

	For the three months ended March 31, 2011			Year ended December 31, 2010
	(In thousands)
Income statement:
Operating revenues	$	90,414		$	304,092
Operating expenses		35,492			129,214
Operating income		54,922			174,878
Interest expense, net		(13,958	)		(52,762	)
Other expense		(99	)		(138	)
Income before income taxes		40,865			121,978
Income tax expense		4,166			13,715
Net income	$	36,699		$	108,263

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Earnings per Share - Additional Information (Detail)	1 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Mar. 30, 2011	Mar. 11, 2011
Earnings Per Share Disclosure [Line Items]
Common shares issued	7,200,000	145,000,000	50,000
Common shares issued, stock split		5,000,000

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Commitments and Contingencies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Nov. 09, 2009	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Commitment And Contingencies [Line Items]
Rent expense		$ 1,700,000	$ 1,100,000	$ 600,000
Capital upgrades reimbursable	30,000,000
Percentage to be paid before termination of primary term	50.00%
Reduction in percentage each year after primary term	10.00%
Costs of upgrades incurred and billed		15,600,000	4,000,000
Loss of hire insurance recovery recognized		$ 23,671,000	$ 18,500,000
Pacific Bora Ltd
Commitment And Contingencies [Line Items]
Contract initial primary term	3 years
Minimum
Commitment And Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss of hire insurance effective days after an accident or major equipment failure		45 days
Maximum
Commitment And Contingencies [Line Items]
Loss of hire insurance effective days after an accident or major equipment failure		180 days

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Components of Income Tax (Provision) Benefit (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Current income tax expense:
Current income tax expense	$ (25,479)	$ (6,369)	$ (322)
Deferred tax benefit:
Deferred tax benefit	3,766	3,169	371
Income tax (expense) benefit	(21,713)	(3,200)	49
Luxembourg
Current income tax expense:
Current income tax expense	(535)
Deferred tax benefit:
Deferred tax benefit	32
UNITED STATES
Current income tax expense:
Current income tax expense	(4,404)	(164)	(301)
Deferred tax benefit:
Deferred tax benefit	4,646	782	344
Other Jurisdictions
Current income tax expense:
Current income tax expense	(20,540)	(6,205)	(21)
Deferred tax benefit:
Deferred tax benefit	$ (912)	$ 2,387	$ 27

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Related-Party Transactions - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended							12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended
	Mar. 23, 2011	Nov. 29, 2010	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2012 Quantum Pacific Gibraltar Limited	Dec. 31, 2011 Quantum Pacific Gibraltar Limited	Dec. 31, 2010 Quantum Pacific Gibraltar Limited	Feb. 28, 2012 Quantum Pacific Gibraltar Limited	Dec. 31, 2012 Quantum Pacific Gibraltar Limited Payment Guarantee	Dec. 31, 2011 Quantum Pacific Gibraltar Limited Payment Guarantee	Dec. 31, 2010 Quantum Pacific Gibraltar Limited Payment Guarantee	Mar. 30, 2011 Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc	Mar. 30, 2011 Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc Predecessor	Dec. 31, 2012 Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc LIBOR
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Issuance of shares upon conversion of related-party loan (in shares)					1,115,761
Related-party loan				$ 142,200,000
Conversion of related-party loan into equity	142,800,000	655,000,000
Interest rate															2.00%
Promissory notes to joint venture and accrued interest receivable			0	0
Interest income from Joint Venture			0	495,000	1,973,000
Oversight and management services per drillship per day													4,000
Oversight and management services fee per day													8,000
Management fee income			1,200,000	2,200,000	0
Percentage of ownership interest														50.00%
Fee per annum on outstanding borrowings						0.25%
Guaranty fee						1,300,000	1,900,000	0
Capitalized interest costs										500,000	1,500,000	0
Senior Unsecured Bonds issued				$ 1,725,000,000					$ 40,000,000

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Balance Sheets (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 605,921	$ 107,278	$ 40,307	$ 7,425
Deferred financing costs	17,707	15,124
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	13,930	10,376
Total current assets	924,446	461,546
Deferred financing costs	32,157	32,386
Other assets	52,164	46,060
Total assets	4,893,928	4,184,289
Liabilities and shareholders' equity:
Accrued interest payable	29,594	12,099
Total current liabilities	402,056	346,084
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	2,034,958	1,456,250
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' equity:
Common shares, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000,000 shares authorized, 224,100,000 shares issued and 216,902,000 and 216,900,000 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively	2,169	2,169
Additional paid-in capital	2,349,544	2,344,226
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(58,416)	(60,284)
Accumulated deficit	21,951	(12,038)
Total shareholders' equity	2,315,248	2,274,073	1,775,207	207,749
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	4,893,928	4,184,289
Parent Company
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	155	7,226
Amount due from subsidiaries	997
Deferred financing costs	2,036
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	545	61
Total current assets	3,733	7,287
Investment in subsidiary	2,647,215	2,277,787
Deferred financing costs	2,206
Other assets		76
Total assets	2,653,154	2,285,150
Liabilities and shareholders' equity:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	706	568
Amount due to subsidiary	28,469	10,509
Accrued interest payable	8,731
Total current liabilities	37,906	11,077
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	300,000
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' equity:
Common shares, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000,000 shares authorized, 224,100,000 shares issued and 216,902,000 and 216,900,000 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively	2,169	2,169
Additional paid-in capital	2,349,544	2,344,226
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(58,416)	(60,284)
Accumulated deficit	21,951	(12,038)
Total shareholders' equity	2,315,248	2,274,073
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 2,653,154	$ 2,285,150

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Supplemental Cash Flow information - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Line Items]
Interest paid net of capitalized	$ 70.9	$ 3.0
Income taxes paid	19.3	0.5	0
Increase (decrease) in capital expenditure	4.0	1.3	79.4
Amortization of deferred financing cost	$ 3.6	$ 13.2	$ 3.0

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Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (Detail) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 10, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01		$ 0.001
Common shares, shares authorized	5,000,000,000	5,000,000,000	2,000,000	805,000
Common shares, shares issued	224,100,000	224,100,000		805,000
Common shares, shares outstanding	216,902,000	216,900,000
Parent Company
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Common shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common shares, shares authorized	5,000,000,000	5,000,000,000
Common shares, shares issued	224,100,000	224,100,000
Common shares, shares outstanding	216,902,000	216,900,000

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Segments and Geographic Areas - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012 Segment
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segment	1

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Carrying Value and Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments Recognized at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Detail) (Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring, USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Carrying (Reported) Amount, Fair Value Disclosure
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Interest rate swaps	$ 47,006	$ 51,235
Estimate of Fair Value, Fair Value Disclosure | Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Interest rate swaps	$ 47,006	$ 51,235

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Earnings per Share

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Earnings per Share

Note 18—Earnings per Share

On March 11, 2011, Pacific Drilling S.A. was formed by Quantum as a Luxembourg company with a share capital of 50,000 common shares. On March 30, 2011, the Board of Pacific Drilling S.A. resolved to split the 50,000 incorporation common shares into 5,000,000 common shares. Further, Pacific Drilling S.A. issued 145,000,000 common shares to Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Quantum, to become the indirect shareholder of all issued Pacific Drilling Limited common shares.

In computing earnings per common share, the reported share and per share amounts for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 has been retrospectively restated to reflect the Restructuring that occurred on March 30, 2011. The following reflects the income and the share data used in the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012		2011			2010
	(in thousands, except share and per share information)
Numerator:
Net income (loss), basic and diluted	$	33,989	$	(2,903	) $		37,299
Denominator:
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic		216,901,000		195,447,944			150,000,000
Effect of share-based compensation awards		2,159		—			—
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted		216,903,159		195,447,944			150,000,000
Earnings (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.16	$	(0.01	) $		0.25
Diluted	$	0.16	$	(0.01	) $		0.25

For the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, the computation of diluted earnings per common share excludes shares of potentially dilutive common shares related to stock options and restricted stock units since the effect would have been anti-dilutive. For the year ended December 31, 2010, the computation of diluted earnings per common share excludes shares of potentially dilutive common shares related to stock options because the Company anticipated settling those stock options in cash.

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Summarized Consolidated Results of Operations (Detail) (Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc, USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc
Operating revenues	$ 90,414	$ 304,092
Operating expenses	35,492	129,214
Operating income (loss)	54,922	174,878
Interest expense, net	(13,958)	(52,762)
Other expense	(99)	(138)
Income (loss) before income taxes	40,865	121,978
Income tax expense	4,166	13,715
Net income	$ 36,699	$ 108,263

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Earnings per Share (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Income and Share Data Used In Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share Computations

The following reflects the income and the share data used in the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

	Years Ended December 31,
	2012		2011			2010
	(in thousands, except share and per share information)
Numerator:
Net income (loss), basic and diluted	$	33,989	$	(2,903	) $		37,299
Denominator:
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic		216,901,000		195,447,944			150,000,000
Effect of share-based compensation awards		2,159		—			—
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted		216,903,159		195,447,944			150,000,000
Earnings (loss) per share:
Basic	$	0.16	$	(0.01	) $		0.25
Diluted	$	0.16	$	(0.01	) $		0.25

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Percentage of Revenues Earned from Customers (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Chevron
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of revenues earned from customer	45.00%	100.00%
Total
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of revenues earned from customer	32.90%
Petrobras
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Percentage of revenues earned from customer	22.10%

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Derivatives (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Cash Flow Hedge Gains and Losses

The following table summarizes the cash flow hedge gains and losses for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010:

Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships	Amount of income (loss) recognized in equity for the year ended December 31,							Amount of loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income for the year ended December 31,						Amount recognized in income (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing) for the year ended December 31,
	2012		2011			2010		2012		2011		2010		2012		2011		2010
	(In thousands)
Interest rate swaps	$	1,868	$	(60,284	)	$	—	$	24,419	$	1,802	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—

Designated as Hedging Instrument

Fair Values of Derivatives Instruments

The table below provides data about the fair values of derivatives that are designated as hedge instruments as of December 31, 2012 and 2011:

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments	Derivative liabilities Balance sheet location	December 31,
		2012		2011
		(In thousands)
Short-term—Interest rate swaps	Derivative liabilities, current	$	17,017	$	20,466
Long-term—Interest rate swaps	Other long-term liabilities	$	27,437	$	30,769
Total		$	44,454	$	51,235

Not Designated as Hedging Instrument

Fair Values of Derivatives Instruments

The table below provides data about the fair values of derivatives that are not designated as hedge instruments as of December 31, 2012 and 2011:

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	Derivative liabilities Balance sheet location	December 31,
		2012		2011
		(In thousands)
Short-term—Interest rate swaps	Derivative liabilities, current	$	978	$	—
Long-term—Interest rate swaps	Other long-term liabilities	$	1,574	$	—
Total		$	2,552	$	—

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Summary of Debt (Parenthetical) (Detail)	Dec. 31, 2012	Feb. 29, 2012
8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate	8.25%	8.25%
7.25% Senior Secured Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, interest rate	7.25%

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Fair Values of Derivatives Designated As Hedge Instruments (Detail) (Designated as Hedging Instrument, Interest Rate Swap, USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liabilities at fair value	$ 44,454	$ 51,235
Current Liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liabilities at fair value	17,017	20,466
Other LongTerm Liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liabilities at fair value	$ 27,437	$ 30,769

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Shareholder's Equity - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	1 Months Ended						12 Months Ended				1 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Apr. 05, 2011	Mar. 30, 2011	Mar. 23, 2011	Mar. 11, 2011	Nov. 29, 2010	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 10, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009	Apr. 05, 2011 Private Placement	Nov. 30, 2011 Public Offering	Dec. 31, 2011 Underwriters	Dec. 31, 2012 Quantum Pacific Gibraltar Limited
Schedule Of Stockholders Equity [Line Items]
Common stock, shares authorized	5,000,000,000							5,000,000,000	2,000,000	805,000
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01							$ 0.01		$ 0.001	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares issued	224,100,000							224,100,000		805,000
Conversion of related-party loan into equity				$ 142,800,000		$ 655,000,000
Issuance of shares upon conversion of related-party loan							892,609,000
Issuance of shares upon conversion of related-party loan (in shares)							1,115,761
Common shares issued value					50,000
Common shares issued	7,200,000		145,000,000		50,000						60,000,000	6,000,000	900,000
Common shares issued, stock split			5,000,000
Shares authorized value			50,000,000
Proceeds from issuance of private placement		575,500,000
Proceeds from issuance of initial public offering	$ 50,300,000
Shares issued as percentage of outstanding common shares	3.30%
Common stock, shares outstanding	216,900,000							216,902,000
Percentage of outstanding shares														69.20%

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Property and Equipment - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 15, 2011 Contract	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Number of contracts	2
Contract expiration extended date		Jan. 18, 2013
Aggregate purchase price of vessels acquired		$ 1,500,000,000
Installment payment for vessels acquired		449,951,000	1,539,630,000	883,853,000
Anticipated installment payment for vessels acquired, 2013		797,300,000
Anticipated installment payment for vessels acquired, 2014		329,800,000
Asset under Construction
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Number of Vessels		3
Capitalized interest costs		33,200,000	71,000,000	99,000,000
First Installment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Installment payment for vessels acquired		$ 374,300,000

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Significant Accounting Policies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Significant Accounting Policies

Note 2—Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Pacific Drilling S.A. and consolidated subsidiaries that we control by ownership of a majority voting interest. We apply the equity method of accounting for investments in entities when we have the ability to exercise significant influence over an entity that does not meet the variable entity criteria or meets the variable interest entity criteria, but for which we are not deemed to be the primary beneficiary. We eliminate all intercompany transactions and balances in consolidation.

The Restructuring was a business combination limited to entities that were all under the control of the Quantum Pacific Group and its affiliates, and, as such, the Restructuring was accounted for as a transaction between entities under common control. Accordingly, the consolidated financial statements of Pacific Drilling S.A. as of and for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 are presented using the historical values of the Predecessor’s financial statements on a combined basis prior to the Restructuring. The financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 present the results of the Company and its subsidiaries as if Pacific Drilling S.A. was formed and the Restructuring was completed on January 1, 2010.

We currently are party to a Nigerian joint venture, Pacific International Drilling West Africa Limited (“PIDWAL”), which is fully controlled and 90% owned by us with 10% owned by Derotech Offshore Services Limited (“Derotech”), a privately-held Nigerian registered limited liability company. Derotech will not accrue the economic benefits of its interest in PIDWAL unless and until it satisfies certain outstanding obligations to us and a certain pledge is cancelled by us. Accordingly, we consolidate all PIDWAL interests and no portion of PIDWAL’s operating results is allocated to the noncontrolling interests. In addition to the joint venture agreement, we currently have marketing and logistic services agreements with Derotech and an affiliated company of Derotech. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we incurred fees of $7.0 million, $3.1 million and $0.2 million under the marketing and logistic services agreements, respectively.

Accounting Estimates—The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the balance sheet date and the amounts of revenues and expenses recognized during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions, including those related to allowance for doubtful accounts, financial instruments, depreciation of property and equipment, impairment of long-lived assets, income taxes, share-based compensation and contingencies. We base our estimates and assumptions on historical experience and on various other factors we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from such estimates.

Revenues and Operating Expenses—Contract drilling revenues are recognized as earned, based on contractual dayrates. In connection with drilling contracts, we may receive revenues for preparation and mobilization of equipment and personnel or for capital improvements to rigs. Revenues earned and incremental costs incurred directly related to contract preparation and mobilization along with reimbursements received for capital expenditures are deferred and recognized over the primary term of the drilling contract. The actual cost incurred for reimbursed capital expenditures are depreciated over the estimated useful life of the asset. Amortization of deferred revenue and deferred mobilization costs are recorded on a straight-line basis over the primary drilling contract term, which is consistent with the general pace of activity, level of services being provided and dayrates being earned over the life of the contract. Upon completion of drilling contracts, any demobilization fees received and related expenses are reported in income.

Cash and Cash Equivalents—Cash equivalents are highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash.

Accounts Receivable—We record trade accounts receivable at the amount we invoice our customers.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts—We provide an allowance for doubtful accounts, as necessary, based on a review of outstanding receivables, historical collection information and existing economic conditions. We do not generally require collateral or other security for receivables. We have no allowance for doubtful accounts as of December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Promissory Notes to Joint Venture—Contributions in the form of promissory notes to the Joint Venture were recorded at cost. The accrued interest on promissory notes from our Joint Venture was recorded at the amount due. Interest income from the Joint Venture was earned on the promissory notes based on the stated loan rates as discussed in Note 4.

Materials and Supplies—Materials and supplies held for consumption are carried at the lower of average cost or market. We recorded no allowance for obsolescence on materials and supplies as of December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Property and Equipment—Deepwater drillships are recorded at cost of construction, including any major capital improvements, less accumulated depreciation and impairment. Other property and equipment is recorded at cost and consists of purchased software systems, furniture, fixtures and other equipment. Planned major maintenance, ongoing maintenance, routine repairs and minor replacements are expensed as incurred.

Interest is capitalized based on the costs of new borrowings attributable to qualifying new construction or at the weighted average cost of debt outstanding during the period of construction. We capitalize interest costs for qualifying new construction from the point borrowing costs are incurred for the qualifying new construction and cease when substantially all the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use are complete.

Property and equipment are depreciated to its salvage value on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of each class of assets. Our estimated useful lives of property and equipment are as follows:

	Years
Drillships and related equipment	15-35
Other property and equipment	2-7

Long-Lived Assets—We review our long-lived assets, including property and equipment, for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of our assets held and used may not be recoverable. Potential impairment indicators include rapid declines in commodity prices and related market conditions, actual or expected declines in rig utilization, increases in idle time, cancellations of contracts or credit concerns of customers. We assess impairment using estimated undiscounted cash flows for the long-lived assets being evaluated by applying assumptions regarding future operations, market conditions, dayrates, utilization and idle time. An impairment loss is recorded in the period if the carrying amount of the asset is not recoverable. During 2012, 2011 and 2010, there were no long-lived asset impairments.

Investment Accounted for Using the Equity Method—Our 50% ownership in TPDI was accounted for using the equity method based upon the level of ownership and our ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of the investee. The investment was adjusted periodically to recognize our proportionate share of the investee’s net income or losses after the date of investment. The Company evaluates its investment accounted for under the equity method for impairment when there was evidence or indicators that a decrease in value may be other than temporary. On March 30, 2011, our Predecessor assigned its equity interest in TPDI to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group (Note 9).

Deferred Financing Costs—Deferred financing costs associated with long-term debt are carried at cost and are amortized to expense using the effective interest rate method over the term of the applicable long-term debt.

Foreign Currency Transactions—The consolidated financial statements are stated in U.S. dollars. We have designated the U.S. dollar as the functional currency for our foreign subsidiaries in international locations because we contract with customers, purchase equipment and finance capital using the U.S. dollar. Transactions in other currencies have been translated into U.S. dollars at the rate of exchange on the transaction date. Any gain or loss arising from a change in exchange rates subsequent to the transaction date is included as an exchange gain or loss. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars are reported at the rates of exchange prevailing at the end of the reporting period. During 2012 and 2011, total foreign exchange gains were $2.4 million and $1.4 million, respectively, and recorded in other income within our consolidated statements of operations. During 2010, total foreign exchange gains (losses) were nominal.

Earnings per Share—Basic earnings (loss) per common share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing the net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Basic and diluted EPS are retrospectively adjusted for the effects of stock dividends or stock splits. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution from securities that could share in the earnings of the Company. Anti-dilutive securities are excluded from diluted EPS.

Fair Value Measurements—We estimate fair value at the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants in the principal market for the asset or liability. Our valuation techniques require inputs that are categorized using a three-level hierarchy as follows: (1) unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets (“Level 1”), (2) direct or indirect observable inputs, including quoted prices or other market data, for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or identical assets or liabilities in less active markets (“Level 2”) and (3) unobservable inputs that require significant judgment for which there is little or no market data (“Level 3”). When multiple input levels are required for a valuation, we categorize the entire fair value measurement according to the lowest level input that is significant to the measurement even though we may have also utilized significant inputs that are more readily observable.

Share-Based Compensation—The grant date fair value of share-based awards granted to employees is recognized as an employee compensation expense over the requisite service period on a straight-line basis. To the extent the share-based awards were to be settled in cash upon exercise, the awards were accounted for as a liability. The liability was remeasured at each reporting date and at settlement date. Any changes in the fair value of the liability are recognized as employee compensation expense in the current period. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company has no awards accounted for as liabilities. The amount of compensation expense recognized is adjusted to reflect the number of awards for which the related vesting conditions are expected to be met. As such, the amount of compensation expense ultimately recognized is based on the number of awards that do meet the vesting conditions at the vesting date.

Derivatives—We apply cash flow hedge accounting to interest rate swaps that are designated as hedges of the variability of future cash flows. The derivative financial instruments are recorded in our consolidated balance sheet at fair value as either assets or liabilities. Changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, to the extent the hedge is effective, are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings.

Hedge effectiveness is measured on an ongoing basis to ensure the validity of the hedges based on the relative cumulative changes in fair value between the derivative contract and the hedged item over time. Any change in fair value resulting from ineffectiveness is recognized immediately in earnings. Hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively if it is determined that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the hedged item.

For interest rate hedges related to interest not incurred to construct fixed assets, other comprehensive income is released to earnings as interest expense is accrued on the underlying debt. For interest rate hedges related to interest capitalized in the construction of fixed assets, other comprehensive income is released to earnings as the asset is depreciated over its useful life.

Contingencies—We record liabilities for estimated loss contingencies when we believe a loss is probable and the amount of the probable loss can be reasonably estimated. Once established, we adjust the estimated contingency loss accrual for changes in facts and circumstances that alter our previous assumptions with respect to the likelihood or amount of loss.

We recognize loss of hire insurance recovery once realized or contingencies related to the realizability of the amount earned are resolved.

Income Taxes—Income taxes are provided based upon the tax laws and rates in the countries in which our subsidiaries are registered and where their operations are conducted and income and expenses are earned and incurred, respectively. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the anticipated future tax effects of temporary differences between the financial statement basis and the tax basis of our assets and liabilities using the applicable enacted tax rates in effect the year in which the asset is realized or the liability is settled. A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is established when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

We recognize tax benefits from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. The amount recognized is the largest benefit that we believe has greater than a 50% likelihood of being realized upon settlement. Actual income taxes paid may vary from estimates depending upon changes in income tax laws, actual results of operations and the final audit of tax returns by taxing authorities. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

Subsequent Events—We have evaluated subsequent events through the date the financial statements were issued. See Note 21.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures—In May 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that changes the wording used to describe many of the requirements in GAAP for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements. Some of the amendments included in this update are intended to clarify the application of existing fair value measurement requirements. We adopted the accounting standards update effective January 1, 2012 with no material impact to our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Presentation of Comprehensive Income—In June and December 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update on the presentation of comprehensive income. This guidance eliminates a previously permitted option to report other comprehensive income and its components in the statement of changes in equity. We adopted the effective portions of the FASB accounting standards update on January 1, 2012 with no material impact on our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

In February 2013, the FASB issued an accounting standards update on the reporting of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. This guidance requires an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the financial statements or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income, but only if the amount reclassified is required to be reclassified in its entirety in the same reporting period. For amounts that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures that provide additional details about those amounts. The accounting standards update is effective for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2013. We are evaluating the impacts that our adoption of this update will have on our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Balance Sheet Offsetting—In December 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that expands the disclosure requirements for the offsetting of assets and liabilities related to certain financial instruments and derivative instruments. The update requires disclosures of gross and net information for financial instruments and derivative instruments that are eligible for net presentation due to a right of offset, an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement. The accounting standards update is effective for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2013. We do not expect that our adoption of this update will have a material effect on our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

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Share-Based Compensation - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended		1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended		1 Months Ended			12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Mar. 31, 2012 2011 Stock Plan	Mar. 31, 2011 2011 Stock Plan	Dec. 31, 2012 2011 Stock Plan	Dec. 31, 2011 2011 Stock Plan	Mar. 31, 2012 2011 Stock Plan Stock Options	Mar. 31, 2011 2011 Stock Plan Stock Options	Dec. 31, 2012 2011 Stock Plan Stock Options	Mar. 31, 2011 2011 Stock Plan Replacement Awards	Mar. 31, 2011 2011 Stock Plan 2009 Replacement Option Grants Member	Mar. 31, 2011 2011 Stock Plan 2010 Replacement Option Grants Member	Mar. 31, 2012 2011 Stock Plan Restricted Stock Units	Nov. 02, 2011 2011 Stock Plan Restricted Stock Units	Dec. 31, 2012 2011 Stock Plan Restricted Stock Units	Dec. 21, 2010 2009 Stock Plan	Apr. 24, 2009 2009 Stock Plan	Dec. 21, 2010 2009 Stock Plan Stock Options	Apr. 24, 2009 2009 Stock Plan Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share base compensation expense	$ 5,300,000	$ 4,500,000	$ 100,000
Share authorized for issuance																			12,577	6,684
Options exercise price								$ 10.12	$ 10.00										$ 800	$ 1,000
Options contractual Term								10 years	10 years										10 years	10 years
Options vesting percentage, Year one												50.00%					25.00%	50.00%
Options vesting percentage, Year two												25.00%					25.00%	25.00%
Options vesting percentage, Year three												25.00%					25.00%	25.00%
Options vesting percentage, year four																	25.00%
Common share reserved and authorized for issuance									7,200,000
Options granted in period				1,294,840	1,329,710	1,294,840					1,471,601
Liability extinguished for stock options issued		2,290,000									2,290,000
Vesting period								4 years	4 years				4 years	4 years
Options granted in period annual vesting percentage								25.00%	25.00%				25.00%
Weighted average fair value of option granted						$ 4.85	$ 5.24
Share based compensation nonvested awards total compensation cost not yet recognized										$ 10,600,000						$ 2,400,000
Share based compensation nonvested awards total compensation cost not yet recognized , recognition period										2 years 6 months						3 years 2 months 12 days
Granted														297,180	12,000	297,180
Restricted stock unit grant date fair value															$ 8.54	$ 10.12

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Nature of Business - Additional Information (Detail)	12 Months Ended		1 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012 Vessel	Dec. 31, 2012 Asset under Construction Vessel	Mar. 30, 2011 Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc Subsidiaries	Mar. 30, 2011 Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc Predecessor	Dec. 31, 2012 Customer Contracts Vessel
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Line Items]
Number of drillships operated under customer contracts	4
Number of drillships		3			2
Percentage of ownership interest				50.00%
Percentage of ownership in joint venture			50.00%

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Schedule I-Condensed Financial Information of Pacific Drilling S.A. (Parent Only)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Schedule I-Condensed Financial Information of Pacific Drilling S.A. (Parent Only)

SCHEDULE I—CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.

(PARENT ONLY)

Statement of Operations

(in thousands, except share and per share information)

	For the year ended December 31, 2012			For the period March 11, 2011 (inception) to December 31, 2011
General and administrative expenses	$	(4,147	)	$	(1,295	)
Operating loss		(4,147	)		(1,295	)
Equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries		42,906			(10,757	)
Interest expense		(4,510	)		—
Other income		(260	)		14
Net income (loss)	$	33,989		$	(12,038	)
Earnings (loss) per common share, basic	$	0.16		$	(0.06	)
Weighted average number of common shares, basic		216,901,000			210,321,818
Earnings (loss) per common share, diluted	$	0.16		$	(0.06	)
Weighted average number of common shares, diluted		216,903,159			210,321,818

SCHEDULE I—CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.

(PARENT ONLY)

Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss)

(in thousands)

	For the year ended December 31, 2012			For the period March 11, 2011 (inception) to December 31, 2011
Net income (loss)	$	33,989		$	(12,038	)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrecognized loss on derivative instruments		(22,551	)		(62,086	)
Reclassification adjustment for loss on derivative instruments realized in net income		24,419			1,802
Total other comprehensive income (loss)		1,868			(60,284	)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$	35,857		$	(72,322	)

SCHEDULE I—CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.

(PARENT ONLY)

Balance Sheet

(in thousands, except share amounts)

	December 31,
	2012			2011
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	155		$	7,226
Amount due from subsidiaries		997			—
Deferred financing costs		2,036			—
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		545			61
Total current assets		3,733			7,287
Investment in subsidiary		2,647,215			2,277,787
Deferred financing costs		2,206			—
Other assets		—			76
Total assets	$	2,653,154		$	2,285,150
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	$	706		$	568
Amount due to subsidiary		28,469			10,509
Accrued interest payable		8,731			—
Total current liabilities		37,906			11,077
Long-term debt, net of current maturities		300,000			—
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders’ equity:
Common shares, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000,000 shares authorized, 224,100,000 shares issued and 216,902,000 and 216,900,000 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively		2,169			2,169
Additional paid-in capital		2,349,544			2,344,226
Accumulated other comprehensive loss		(58,416	)		(60,284	)
Accumulated deficit		21,951			(12,038	)
Total shareholders’ equity		2,315,248			2,274,073
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	2,653,154		$	2,285,150

SCHEDULE I—CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.

(PARENT ONLY)

Statement of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

	For the year ended December 31, 2012			For the period March 11, 2011 (inception) to December 31, 2011
Cash flow from operating activities:		10,031			(11,845	)
Cash flow from investing activities:
Capital contributions to consolidated subsidiaries		(310,994	)		(606,745	)
Cash flow from financing activities:
Issuance of common shares		—			625,816
Proceeds from long-term debt		300,000			—
Deferred financing costs		(6,108	)		—
Net cash provided by financing activities		293,892			625,816
Decrease (increase) in cash and cash equivalents		(7,071	)		7,226
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		7,226			—
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	155		$	7,226

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Subsequent Events

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Subsequent Events

Note 21—Subsequent Events

In January 2013, we exercised our option and entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of our eighth drillship, which is expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2015.

On February 19, 2013, Pacific Sharav S.à r.l. and Pacific Drilling VII Limited (collectively, the “Borrowers”), and Pacific Drilling S.A. (the “Guarantor”) (collectively, the “Borrowing Group”) entered into a senior secured credit facility agreement with a group of lenders to finance the construction, operation and other costs associated with the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem (the “Senior Secured Credit Facility Agreement” or “SSCF”).

The SSCF includes a term loan (the “SSCF Term Loan”) which consists of two tranches: (i) a tranche of $500.0 million provided by a syndicate of nine commercial banks (the “Commercial Tranche”) and (ii) a tranche of $500.0 million provided by Eksportkreditt Norge AS (and guaranteed by the Norwegian Guarantee Institute for Export Credits) (the “GIEK Tranche”). The SSCF Term Loan will become available upon the satisfaction of customary conditions precedent, as described therein.

Borrowings under the Commercial Tranche bear interest at the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus a margin of 3.5%. Borrowings under the GIEK Tranche bear interest, at the Borrower’s option, at (i) LIBOR plus a margin of 1.50% (which margin may be reset 60 months after the first borrowing under the SSCF Term Loan) or (ii) at a Commercial Interest Reference Rate (“CIRR”) of (a) 3.96% for borrowings relating to the Pacific Sharav and (b) 2.37% for borrowings relating to the Pacific Meltem. Borrowings under the GIEK Tranche will also be subject to a guarantee fee of 2.00% per annum (the “GIEK Premium”). Undrawn commitments for the SSCF Term Loan shall bear a fee equal to (i) in the case of the Commercial Tranche, 40% of the margin for such tranche and (ii) in the case of the GIEK Tranche, 40% of the applicable margin for such tranche and 40% of the GIEK Premium.

The Commercial Tranche matures on the earlier of (i) five years following the delivery of the second vessel under the SSCF and (ii) May 31, 2019. The GIEK Tranche matures (for each vessel) twelve years following the delivery of the applicable vessel. The GIEK Tranche contains a put option exercisable if the Commercial Tranche is not refinanced on terms acceptable to GIEK. If the GIEK Tranche put option is exercised, each Borrower must prepay, in full, the portion of all outstanding loans that relate to the GIEK Tranche, on the maturity date of the Commercial Tranche, without any premium, penalty or fees of any kind. Amortization payments under the SSCF Term Loan are calculated on a 12 year repayment schedule and must be made every six months following the delivery of the relevant vessel.

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Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Schedule of Income Before Income Tax [Line Items]
Income (loss) before income taxes	$ 55,702	$ 297	$ 37,250
Luxembourg
Schedule of Income Before Income Tax [Line Items]
Income (loss) before income taxes	(24,451)	(1,281)
UNITED STATES
Schedule of Income Before Income Tax [Line Items]
Income (loss) before income taxes	(444)	(2,753)	498
Other Jurisdictions
Schedule of Income Before Income Tax [Line Items]
Income (loss) before income taxes	$ 80,597	$ 4,331	$ 36,752

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Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2012 Pacific International Drilling West Africa Limited	Dec. 31, 2012 Pacific International Drilling West Africa Limited Derotech Offshore Services Limited	Mar. 30, 2011 Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc Predecessor
Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Percentage of ownership in joint venture				90.00%	10.00%
Fees incurred under marketing and logistics agreement	$ 7.0	$ 3.1	$ 0.2
Percentage of ownership interest						50.00%
Foreign exchange gains	$ 2.4	$ 1.4

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Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Principles of Consolidation

Principles of Consolidation—The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Pacific Drilling S.A. and consolidated subsidiaries that we control by ownership of a majority voting interest. We apply the equity method of accounting for investments in entities when we have the ability to exercise significant influence over an entity that does not meet the variable entity criteria or meets the variable interest entity criteria, but for which we are not deemed to be the primary beneficiary. We eliminate all intercompany transactions and balances in consolidation.

The Restructuring was a business combination limited to entities that were all under the control of the Quantum Pacific Group and its affiliates, and, as such, the Restructuring was accounted for as a transaction between entities under common control. Accordingly, the consolidated financial statements of Pacific Drilling S.A. as of and for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 are presented using the historical values of the Predecessor’s financial statements on a combined basis prior to the Restructuring. The financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010 present the results of the Company and its subsidiaries as if Pacific Drilling S.A. was formed and the Restructuring was completed on January 1, 2010.

We currently are party to a Nigerian joint venture, Pacific International Drilling West Africa Limited (“PIDWAL”), which is fully controlled and 90% owned by us with 10% owned by Derotech Offshore Services Limited (“Derotech”), a privately-held Nigerian registered limited liability company. Derotech will not accrue the economic benefits of its interest in PIDWAL unless and until it satisfies certain outstanding obligations to us and a certain pledge is cancelled by us. Accordingly, we consolidate all PIDWAL interests and no portion of PIDWAL’s operating results is allocated to the noncontrolling interests. In addition to the joint venture agreement, we currently have marketing and logistic services agreements with Derotech and an affiliated company of Derotech. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we incurred fees of $7.0 million, $3.1 million and $0.2 million under the marketing and logistic services agreements, respectively.

Accounting Estimates

Accounting Estimates—The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (“GAAP”) requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the balance sheet date and the amounts of revenues and expenses recognized during the reporting period. On an ongoing basis, we evaluate our estimates and assumptions, including those related to allowance for doubtful accounts, financial instruments, depreciation of property and equipment, impairment of long-lived assets, income taxes, share-based compensation and contingencies. We base our estimates and assumptions on historical experience and on various other factors we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from such estimates.

Revenues and Operating Expenses

Revenues and Operating Expenses—Contract drilling revenues are recognized as earned, based on contractual dayrates. In connection with drilling contracts, we may receive revenues for preparation and mobilization of equipment and personnel or for capital improvements to rigs. Revenues earned and incremental costs incurred directly related to contract preparation and mobilization along with reimbursements received for capital expenditures are deferred and recognized over the primary term of the drilling contract. The actual cost incurred for reimbursed capital expenditures are depreciated over the estimated useful life of the asset. Amortization of deferred revenue and deferred mobilization costs are recorded on a straight-line basis over the primary drilling contract term, which is consistent with the general pace of activity, level of services being provided and dayrates being earned over the life of the contract. Upon completion of drilling contracts, any demobilization fees received and related expenses are reported in income.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents—Cash equivalents are highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less that are readily convertible to known amounts of cash.

Accounts Receivable

Accounts Receivable—We record trade accounts receivable at the amount we invoice our customers.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts—We provide an allowance for doubtful accounts, as necessary, based on a review of outstanding receivables, historical collection information and existing economic conditions. We do not generally require collateral or other security for receivables. We have no allowance for doubtful accounts as of December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Promissory Notes to Joint Venture

Promissory Notes to Joint Venture—Contributions in the form of promissory notes to the Joint Venture were recorded at cost. The accrued interest on promissory notes from our Joint Venture was recorded at the amount due. Interest income from the Joint Venture was earned on the promissory notes based on the stated loan rates as discussed in Note 4.

Materials and Supplies

Materials and Supplies—Materials and supplies held for consumption are carried at the lower of average cost or market. We recorded no allowance for obsolescence on materials and supplies as of December 31, 2012 and 2011.

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment—Deepwater drillships are recorded at cost of construction, including any major capital improvements, less accumulated depreciation and impairment. Other property and equipment is recorded at cost and consists of purchased software systems, furniture, fixtures and other equipment. Planned major maintenance, ongoing maintenance, routine repairs and minor replacements are expensed as incurred.

Interest is capitalized based on the costs of new borrowings attributable to qualifying new construction or at the weighted average cost of debt outstanding during the period of construction. We capitalize interest costs for qualifying new construction from the point borrowing costs are incurred for the qualifying new construction and cease when substantially all the activities necessary to prepare the qualifying asset for its intended use are complete.

Property and equipment are depreciated to its salvage value on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of each class of assets. Our estimated useful lives of property and equipment are as follows:

	Years
Drillships and related equipment	15-35
Other property and equipment	2-7

Long-Lived Assets

Long-Lived Assets—We review our long-lived assets, including property and equipment, for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of our assets held and used may not be recoverable. Potential impairment indicators include rapid declines in commodity prices and related market conditions, actual or expected declines in rig utilization, increases in idle time, cancellations of contracts or credit concerns of customers. We assess impairment using estimated undiscounted cash flows for the long-lived assets being evaluated by applying assumptions regarding future operations, market conditions, dayrates, utilization and idle time. An impairment loss is recorded in the period if the carrying amount of the asset is not recoverable. During 2012, 2011 and 2010, there were no long-lived asset impairments.

Investment Accounted for Using the Equity Method

Investment Accounted for Using the Equity Method—Our 50% ownership in TPDI was accounted for using the equity method based upon the level of ownership and our ability to exercise significant influence over the operating and financial policies of the investee. The investment was adjusted periodically to recognize our proportionate share of the investee’s net income or losses after the date of investment. The Company evaluates its investment accounted for under the equity method for impairment when there was evidence or indicators that a decrease in value may be other than temporary. On March 30, 2011, our Predecessor assigned its equity interest in TPDI to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group (Note 9).

Deferred Financing Costs

Deferred Financing Costs—Deferred financing costs associated with long-term debt are carried at cost and are amortized to expense using the effective interest rate method over the term of the applicable long-term debt.

Foreign Currency Transactions

Foreign Currency Transactions—The consolidated financial statements are stated in U.S. dollars. We have designated the U.S. dollar as the functional currency for our foreign subsidiaries in international locations because we contract with customers, purchase equipment and finance capital using the U.S. dollar. Transactions in other currencies have been translated into U.S. dollars at the rate of exchange on the transaction date. Any gain or loss arising from a change in exchange rates subsequent to the transaction date is included as an exchange gain or loss. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars are reported at the rates of exchange prevailing at the end of the reporting period. During 2012 and 2011, total foreign exchange gains were $2.4 million and $1.4 million, respectively, and recorded in other income within our consolidated statements of operations. During 2010, total foreign exchange gains (losses) were nominal.

Earnings per Share

Earnings per Share—Basic earnings (loss) per common share (“EPS”) is computed by dividing the net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Basic and diluted EPS are retrospectively adjusted for the effects of stock dividends or stock splits. Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution from securities that could share in the earnings of the Company. Anti-dilutive securities are excluded from diluted EPS.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements—We estimate fair value at the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants in the principal market for the asset or liability. Our valuation techniques require inputs that are categorized using a three-level hierarchy as follows: (1) unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets (“Level 1”), (2) direct or indirect observable inputs, including quoted prices or other market data, for similar assets or liabilities in active markets or identical assets or liabilities in less active markets (“Level 2”) and (3) unobservable inputs that require significant judgment for which there is little or no market data (“Level 3”). When multiple input levels are required for a valuation, we categorize the entire fair value measurement according to the lowest level input that is significant to the measurement even though we may have also utilized significant inputs that are more readily observable.

Share-Based Compensation

Share-Based Compensation—The grant date fair value of share-based awards granted to employees is recognized as an employee compensation expense over the requisite service period on a straight-line basis. To the extent the share-based awards were to be settled in cash upon exercise, the awards were accounted for as a liability. The liability was remeasured at each reporting date and at settlement date. Any changes in the fair value of the liability are recognized as employee compensation expense in the current period. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company has no awards accounted for as liabilities. The amount of compensation expense recognized is adjusted to reflect the number of awards for which the related vesting conditions are expected to be met. As such, the amount of compensation expense ultimately recognized is based on the number of awards that do meet the vesting conditions at the vesting date.

Derivatives

Derivatives—We apply cash flow hedge accounting to interest rate swaps that are designated as hedges of the variability of future cash flows. The derivative financial instruments are recorded in our consolidated balance sheet at fair value as either assets or liabilities. Changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, to the extent the hedge is effective, are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings.

Hedge effectiveness is measured on an ongoing basis to ensure the validity of the hedges based on the relative cumulative changes in fair value between the derivative contract and the hedged item over time. Any change in fair value resulting from ineffectiveness is recognized immediately in earnings. Hedge accounting is discontinued prospectively if it is determined that the derivative is no longer effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of the hedged item.

For interest rate hedges related to interest not incurred to construct fixed assets, other comprehensive income is released to earnings as interest expense is accrued on the underlying debt. For interest rate hedges related to interest capitalized in the construction of fixed assets, other comprehensive income is released to earnings as the asset is depreciated over its useful life.

Contingencies

Contingencies—We record liabilities for estimated loss contingencies when we believe a loss is probable and the amount of the probable loss can be reasonably estimated. Once established, we adjust the estimated contingency loss accrual for changes in facts and circumstances that alter our previous assumptions with respect to the likelihood or amount of loss.

We recognize loss of hire insurance recovery once realized or contingencies related to the realizability of the amount earned are resolved.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes—Income taxes are provided based upon the tax laws and rates in the countries in which our subsidiaries are registered and where their operations are conducted and income and expenses are earned and incurred, respectively. We recognize deferred tax assets and liabilities for the anticipated future tax effects of temporary differences between the financial statement basis and the tax basis of our assets and liabilities using the applicable enacted tax rates in effect the year in which the asset is realized or the liability is settled. A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is established when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

We recognize tax benefits from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. The amount recognized is the largest benefit that we believe has greater than a 50% likelihood of being realized upon settlement. Actual income taxes paid may vary from estimates depending upon changes in income tax laws, actual results of operations and the final audit of tax returns by taxing authorities. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events—We have evaluated subsequent events through the date the financial statements were issued. See Note 21.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures—In May 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that changes the wording used to describe many of the requirements in GAAP for measuring fair value and for disclosing information about fair value measurements. Some of the amendments included in this update are intended to clarify the application of existing fair value measurement requirements. We adopted the accounting standards update effective January 1, 2012 with no material impact to our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Presentation of Comprehensive Income—In June and December 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update on the presentation of comprehensive income. This guidance eliminates a previously permitted option to report other comprehensive income and its components in the statement of changes in equity. We adopted the effective portions of the FASB accounting standards update on January 1, 2012 with no material impact on our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

In February 2013, the FASB issued an accounting standards update on the reporting of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income. This guidance requires an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. In addition, an entity is required to present, either on the face of the financial statements or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income, but only if the amount reclassified is required to be reclassified in its entirety in the same reporting period. For amounts that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures that provide additional details about those amounts. The accounting standards update is effective for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2013. We are evaluating the impacts that our adoption of this update will have on our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

Balance Sheet Offsetting—In December 2011, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that expands the disclosure requirements for the offsetting of assets and liabilities related to certain financial instruments and derivative instruments. The update requires disclosures of gross and net information for financial instruments and derivative instruments that are eligible for net presentation due to a right of offset, an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement. The accounting standards update is effective for interim and annual periods beginning January 1, 2013. We do not expect that our adoption of this update will have a material effect on our financial statements or notes to the consolidated financial statements.

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Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Estimated Useful Lives of Property And Equipment

Our estimated useful lives of property and equipment are as follows:

	Years
Drillships and related equipment	15-35
Other property and equipment	2-7

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Nature of Business

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Nature of Business

Note 1—Nature of Business

Pacific Drilling S.A. and its subsidiaries (“Pacific Drilling,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”) is an international offshore drilling company committed to becoming the preferred provider of ultra-deepwater drilling services to the oil and natural gas industry through the use of high-specification rigs. Our primary business is to contract our ultra-deepwater rigs, related equipment and work crews, primarily on a dayrate basis, to drill wells for our customers. As of December 31, 2012, the Company operates four drillships under customer contract and has three drillships under construction at Samsung Heavy Industries (“SHI”), two of which are under customer contract.

Pacific Drilling S.A. was formed on March 11, 2011, as a Luxembourg corporation under the form of a société anonyme to act as an indirect holding company for its predecessor, Pacific Drilling Limited (our “Predecessor”), a company organized under the laws of Liberia, and its subsidiaries in connection with a corporate reorganization completed on March 30, 2011, referred to as the “Restructuring.” In connection with the Restructuring, our Predecessor was contributed to a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company by a subsidiary of Quantum Pacific International Limited, a British Virgin Islands company and parent company of an investment holdings group (the “Quantum Pacific Group”). The Company did not engage in any business or other activities prior to the Restructuring except in connection with its formation and the Restructuring.

In 2007, our Predecessor entered into various agreements with Transocean Ltd. (“Transocean”) and its subsidiaries, which culminated in the formation of a joint venture company, Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc. (“TPDI” or the “Joint Venture”), which was owned 50% by our Predecessor and 50% by a subsidiary of Transocean. On March 30, 2011, in connection with the Restructuring, our Predecessor assigned its equity interest in TPDI to another subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group, which is referred to as the “TPDI Transfer,” to enable the Company to focus on the operation and marketing of the Company’s wholly-owned fleet. As a result, neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries owned any interest in TPDI following March 30, 2011.

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Property and Equipment (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Property And Equipment

Property and equipment consists of the following as of:

	December 31,
	2012			2011
	(In thousands)
Drillships and related equipment	$	3,892,623		$	3,435,665
Other property and equipment		7,025			12,441
Property and equipment, cost		3,899,648			3,448,106
Accumulated depreciation		(139,227	)		(12,096	)
Property and equipment, net	$	3,760,421		$	3,436,010

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Subsequent Events - Additional Information (Detail) (Subsequent Event, USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	1 Months Ended
	Feb. 19, 2013
Commercial Facility Loan
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Senior secured credit facility, term loans	$ 500.0
Undrawn commitments fee, percentage	40.00%
Debt instrument maturity period	5 years
Commercial Facility Loan | LIBOR
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Interest rate margin	3.50%
GIEK Facility Loan
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Senior secured credit facility, term loans	$ 500.0
Margin reset period after the first borrowing	60 months
Guarantee fee per annum	2.00%
Debt instrument maturity period	12 years
Maturity date	May 31, 2019
GIEK Facility Loan | LIBOR
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Interest rate margin	1.50%
GIEK Facility Loan | GIEK Tranche
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Undrawn commitments fee, percentage	40.00%
GIEK Facility Loan | GIEK Premium
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Undrawn commitments fee, percentage	40.00%
Pacific Sharav
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Interest rate	3.96%
Pacific Meltem
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Interest rate	2.37%

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Concentrations of Credit and Market Risk (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Percentage of Revenues Earned from Customers

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the percentage revenues earned from our customers was as follows:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Chevron		45.0	%		100.0	%		—
Total		32.9	%		—			—
Petrobras		22.1	%		—			—

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Debt - Additional Information (Detail)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended										12 Months Ended								12 Months Ended					12 Months Ended		12 Months Ended		12 Months Ended		12 Months Ended			1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended			12 Months Ended	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended				12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012 USD ($) Tranche	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 Standby Letters of Credit Pacific Bora Ltd USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 Standby Letters of Credit Pacific Scirocco Ltd USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement Pacific Bora Ltd USD ($)	Apr. 19, 2012 Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement Pacific Bora Ltd USD ($)	Apr. 19, 2012 Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement Pacific Bora Ltd NGN	Dec. 31, 2012 Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement Pacific Scirocco Ltd USD ($)	Apr. 19, 2012 Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement Pacific Scirocco Ltd USD ($)	Apr. 19, 2012 Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement Pacific Scirocco Ltd NGN	Dec. 31, 2012 Temporary Import Bond Facility USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 Temporary Import Bond Facility USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 Minimum USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 Maximum	Dec. 31, 2012 Prior to effective date of first drilling contract	Dec. 31, 2012 Subsequent to effective date of the first drilling contract and until twelve months after delivery of drillships	Dec. 31, 2012 Subsequent to 12 months after the delivery of all four drillships, If the historical debt service coverage ratio is not greater than 125%	Dec. 31, 2012 Subsequent to 12 months after the delivery of all four drillships, If the historical debt service coverage ratio is greater than 125%	Dec. 31, 2012 Commercial Tranche USD ($) Tranche	Dec. 31, 2012 GIEK Tranche Tranche	Dec. 31, 2012 KEXIM Tranche Tranche	Dec. 31, 2012 Bora Term Loan USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 Bora Term Loan USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 Mistral Term Loan USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 Mistral Term Loan USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 Scirocco Term Loan USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 Scirocco Term Loan USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 Santa Ana Term Loan USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 Santa Ana Term Loan USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 Term Loan USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 Term Loan USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2010 Term Loan USD ($)	Feb. 29, 2012 8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds USD ($)	Feb. 29, 2012 8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds Semi Annual Payment, First Payment	Feb. 29, 2012 8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds Semi Annual Payment, Second Payment	Dec. 31, 2012 8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds Minimum USD ($)	Nov. 30, 2012 2017 Senior Secured Notes USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2012 2017 Senior Secured Notes USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2011 2017 Senior Secured Notes USD ($)	Nov. 30, 2012 2017 Senior Secured Notes Semi Annual Payment, First Payment	Nov. 30, 2012 2017 Senior Secured Notes Semi Annual Payment, Second Payment	Dec. 31, 2012 2017 Senior Secured Notes Debtor Optional Redemption Period 1	Dec. 31, 2012 2017 Senior Secured Notes Debtor Optional Redemption Period 2
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Number of tranches of term loan		3																		1	1	1
Borrowings under term loan facility			$ 1,725,000,000																					$ 450,000,000		$ 450,000,000		$ 375,000,000		$ 450,000,000
Line of credit facility, capacity available cancelled																												75,000,000
Applicable margin under the term loans																4.00%	3.50%	3.50%	3.00%
Historical debt service coverage ratio		125.00%
Interest Payment Period		3 months
Interest expense												5,500,000	700,000																		64,400,000	57,200,000	12,600,000		21,100,000					3,400,000
Capitalized interest recorded to property and equipment																															8,700,000	51,500,000	12,600,000		17,000,000					3,400,000
Maturity date																				Oct. 31, 2015	Oct. 31, 2019	Oct. 31, 2019												Feb. 23, 2015					Dec. 01, 2017
Term loan residual payment at maturity																				200,000,000			200,000,000		200,000,000		200,000,000		200,000,000
Prepayment penalty rate if debt is paid within one year of delivery																				1.00%	0.50%	0.50%
Amortization payment on term loan																							12,500,000		15,600,000		10,900,000		15,600,000
Frequency of payment																							Every three months		Every three months		Every three months		Every three months					Semiannually					Semiannually
Term loan maturity month and year																							2015-10		2015-10		2015-10		2015-10
Net restricted assets		1,700,000,000	1,500,000,000																																					0	0
Debt service coverage ratio	1.1	1.2
Debt service coverage ratio next year														1.1
Debt service coverage ratio after next year		1.2
Debt service leverage ratio															65.00%
Minimum liquidity														50,000,000																								25,000,000
Percentage of hedge of outstanding and available balance against floating interest rate		75.00%
Debt instrument, interest rate																																		8.25%	8.25%				7.25%
Debt instrument, maturity year																																		2015					2017
Long-term debt, non current		2,034,958,000	1,456,250,000																				300,000,000	350,000,000	325,000,000	387,500,000	287,500,000	331,250,000	325,000,000	387,500,000				300,000,000	300,000,000				500,000,000	497,500,000
Senior unsecured debt, interest payment month and day																																				--02-23	--08-23					--06-01	--12-01
Notice period to exercise early repayment option																																			60 days
Percentage of par value to exercise an early repayment of senior unsecured debt																																			101.00%					100.00%
Percentage of dividend in excess of consolidated net income																																			50.00%
Minimum equity ratio																																						35.00%
Outstanding secured and unsecured borrowings																																			475,000,000
Percentage of par value to exercise an early repayment of enior unsecured note																																							99.483%
Debt instrument, redemption date earliest																																								Dec. 01, 2015
Redemption percentage prior to December 1, 2015																																												35.00%	10.00%
Percentage of par value to exercise an early repayment of senior unsecured note plus accrued and unpaid interest																																												107.25%	103.00%
Letter of credit amount				99,800,000	109,500,000		94,500,000	14,884,342,426.0		109,700,000	17,280,837,923.0
Restricted cash deposit obligations				50,000,000	99,000,000	10,700,000			12,300,000
Cash collateral release		$ 126,000,000
Percentage of equivalent of outstanding balances												2.50%

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Future Minimum Lease Payments Under Noncancelable Operating Leases (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012
Operating Leased Assets [Line Items]
2013	$ 1,041
2014	1,057
2015	751
2016	738
2017	757
Thereafter	2,375
Total future minimum lease payments	$ 6,719

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Consolidated Statements of Operations (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Revenues
Contract drilling	$ 638,050	$ 65,431
Costs and expenses
Contract drilling	(331,495)	(32,142)
General and administrative expenses	(45,386)	(52,614)	(19,715)
Depreciation expense	(127,698)	(11,619)	(395)
Costs and Expenses	(504,579)	(96,375)	(20,110)
Loss of hire insurance recovery	23,671	18,500
Operating income (loss)	157,142	(12,444)	(20,110)
Other income (expense)
Equity in earnings of Joint Venture		18,955	56,307
Interest income from Joint Venture	0	495	1,973
Interest expense	(104,685)	(10,384)	(858)
Other income	3,245	3,675	(62)
Income before income taxes	55,702	297	37,250
Income tax (expense) benefit	(21,713)	(3,200)	49
Net income (loss)	$ 33,989	$ (2,903)	$ 37,299
Earnings (loss) per common share, basic (Note 18)	$ 0.16	$ (0.01)	$ 0.25
Weighted average number of common shares, basic (Note 18)	216,901,000	195,447,944	150,000,000
Earnings (loss) per common share, diluted (Note 18)	$ 0.16	$ (0.01)	$ 0.25
Weighted average number of common shares, diluted (Note 18)	216,903,159	195,447,944	150,000,000

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Estimated Useful Lives of Property And Equipment (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012
Drillships and Related Equipment | Minimum
Property Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	15 years
Drillships and Related Equipment | Maximum
Property Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	35 years
Other Property And Equipment | Minimum
Property Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	2 years
Other Property And Equipment | Maximum
Property Plant and Equipment Estimated Useful Lives [Line Items]
Property Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	7 years

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Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity (USD $)	Total	All Other	Joint Venture	Common shares	Common shares Restructuring share issuance, net	Common shares All Other	Treasury Shares	Additional paid-in capital	Additional paid-in capital Restructuring share issuance, net	Additional paid-in capital All Other	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	Accumulated other comprehensive loss All Other	Accumulated other comprehensive loss Joint Venture	Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)	Retained earnings (accumulated deficit) All Other	Retained earnings (accumulated deficit) Joint Venture
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2009	$ 207,749,000			$ 1,000				$ 150,000,000			$ 3,992,000			$ 53,756,000
Beginning Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2009				805,000
Contribution from shareholder	655,000,000							655,000,000
Issuance of shares upon conversion of related-party loan (in shares)	1,115,761			1,115,761
Issuance of shares upon conversion of related-party loan	892,609,000			1,000				892,608,000
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(17,450,000)										(17,450,000)
Net income (loss)	37,299,000													37,299,000
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2010	1,775,207,000			2,000				1,697,608,000			(13,458,000)			91,055,000
Ending Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2010				1,920,761
Issuance of shares, net (in shares)					148,079,239	66,900,000
Issuance of shares, net		625,816,000			1,498,000	669,000			(1,498,000)	625,147,000
Issuance of common shares to treasury							7,200,000,000
Share-based compensation	2,840,000							2,840,000
Contribution from shareholder	142,759,000							142,759,000
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(56,568,000)	(60,284,000)	3,716,000									(60,284,000)	3,716,000
Net income (loss)	(2,903,000)	(12,038,000)	9,135,000												(12,038,000)	9,135,000
Joint Venture interests assigned to shareholder	(215,368,000)							(124,920,000)			9,742,000			(100,190,000)
Share-based compensation liability modification	2,290,000							2,290,000
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2011	2,274,073,000			2,169,000			7,200,000,000	2,344,226,000			(60,284,000)			(12,038,000)
Beginning Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2011				216,900,000
Shares issued under share-based compensation plans (in shares)				2,000
Shares issued under share-based compensation plans							(2,000,000)
Share-based compensation	5,318,000							5,318,000
Other comprehensive income (loss)	1,868,000										1,868,000
Net income (loss)	33,989,000													33,989,000
Ending Balance at Dec. 31, 2012	$ 2,315,248,000			$ 2,169,000			$ 7,198,000,000	$ 2,349,544,000			$ (58,416,000)			$ 21,951,000
Ending Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012				216,902,000

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Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 4,671	$ 2,547
Accrued payroll expenses	4,644	2,175
Deferred revenue	5,592	2,410
Other	23	18
Deferred tax assets	14,930	7,150
Less: valuation allowance	(4,476)	(2,547)
Total deferred tax assets	10,454	4,603
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation and amortization	(1,125)	(1,063)
Deferred expenses	(2,024)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(3,149)	(1,063)
Net deferred tax assets	$ 7,305	$ 3,540

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Income Taxes (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes

Income / (loss) before income taxes consisted of the following:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
	(In thousands)
Luxembourg	$	(24,451	)	$	(1,281	)	$	—
United States		(444	)		(2,753	)		498
Other Jurisdictions		80,597			4,331			36,752
Total	$	55,702		$	297		$	37,250

Components of Income Tax (Provision) Benefit

The components of income tax (provision) / benefit consisted of the following:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011
	(In thousands)
Current income tax expense:
Luxembourg	$	(535	)	$	—		$	—
United States		(4,404	)		(164	)		(301	)
Other Foreign		(20,540	)		(6,205	)		(21	)
Total current	$	(25,479	)	$	(6,369	)	$	(322	)
Deferred tax benefit:
Luxembourg	$	32		$	—		$	—
United States		4,646			782			344
Other Foreign		(912	)		2,387			27
Total deferred	$	3,766		$	3,169		$	371
Income tax (expense) benefit	$	(21,713	)	$	(3,200	)	$	49

Reconciliation Between Luxembourg Statutory Rate and Liberian Statutory Rate and Our Effective Tax Rate

A reconciliation between the Luxembourg statutory rate of 28.8 percent and Liberian statutory rate of zero percent and our effective tax rate is as follows:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Statutory rate		28.8	%		28.8	%		—
Effect of tax rates different than the Luxembourg statutory tax rate		6.8	%		108.5	%		(0.1	)%
Change in valuation allowance		3.4	%		934.1	%		—
Adjustments related to prior years		—			6.0	%		—
Effective tax rate		39.0	%		1,077.4	%		(0.1	)%

Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities

The components of deferred tax assets and liabilities consist of the following:

	December 31,
	2012			2011
	(In thousands)
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards	$	4,671		$	2,547
Accrued payroll expenses		4,644			2,175
Deferred revenue		5,592			2,410
Other		23			18
Deferred tax assets		14,930			7,150
Less: valuation allowance		(4,476	)		(2,547	)
Total deferred tax assets	$	10,454		$	4,603
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation and amortization	$	(1,125	)	$	(1,063	)
Deferred expenses		(2,024	)		—
Total deferred tax liabilities	$	(3,149	)	$	(1,063	)
Net deferred tax assets	$	7,305		$	3,540

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Summary of Restricted Stock Units Activity (Detail) (2011 Stock Plan, Restricted Stock Units, USD $)	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Nov. 02, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012
2011 Stock Plan | Restricted Stock Units
Number of restricted stock units
Nonvested-January 1, 2012			12,000
Granted	297,180	12,000	297,180
Vested			(2,000)
Forfeited			(17,492)
Nonvested-December 31, 2012			289,688
Weighted average grant date fair value (per share)
Nonvested-January 1, 2012			$ 8.54
Granted		$ 8.54	$ 10.12
Vested			$ 8.54
Forfeited			$ 10.12
Nonvested-December 31, 2012			$ 10.07

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Concentrations of Credit and Market Risk

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Concentrations of Credit and Market Risk

Note 15—Concentrations of Credit and Market Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject Pacific Drilling to credit risk are primarily cash equivalents and restricted cash. At times, cash equivalents may be in excess of FDIC insurance limits. Pacific Drilling has a concentration of customers in the offshore drilling industry, which exposes us to a concentration of credit risk within a single industry. This industry concentration has the potential to impact our overall exposure to market and credit risks as our customers could be affected by similar changes in economic, industry or other conditions. However, we believe that the credit risk posed by this industry concentration is largely offset by the creditworthiness of our customer base. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the percentage revenues earned from our customers was as follows:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Chevron		45.0	%		100.0	%		—
Total		32.9	%		—			—
Petrobras		22.1	%		—			—

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Share-Based Compensation (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Stock Options

The fair value of the 2011, 2010 and 2009 stock option grants as of March 31, 2011, the date of modification and grant, was calculated using the following assumptions:

	2011 stock options			2010 stock options			2009 stock options
Expected volatility		52	%		53	%		53	%
Expected term (in years)		6.25			6.00			5.75
Expected dividends		—			—			—
Risk-free interest rate		2.65	%		2.57	%		2.49	%

                         The fair value of the 2012 stock option grants as of March 31, 2012, the date of grant, was calculated using the following assumptions:

	2012 stock options
Expected volatility		48.5	%
Expected term (in years)		6.25
Expected dividends		—
Risk-free interest rate		1.40	%

Summary of Option Activity

A summary of option activity under the 2011 Stock Plan as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012 is as follows:

	Number of shares under option			Weighted-average exercise price (per share)		Weighted-average remaining contractual term (in years)		Aggregate intrinsic value (in thousands)
Outstanding—January 1, 2012		2,788,596		$	10.00
Granted		1,294,840			10.12
Exercised		—			—
Cancelled		—			—
Forfeited or expired		(107,798	)		10.00
Outstanding—December 31, 2012		3,975,638		$	10.04		8.1		—
Exercisable—December 31, 2012		1,121,429		$	10.00		7.3		—

Summary of Restricted Stock Units Activity

A summary of restricted stock units activity under the 2011 Stock Plan as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012 is as follows:

	Number of restricted stock units			Weighted-average grant-date fair value (per share)
Nonvested—January 1, 2012		12,000		$	8.54
Granted		297,180			10.12
Vested		(2,000	)		8.54
Forfeited		(17,492	)		10.12
Nonvested—December 31, 2012		289,688		$	10.07

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Segments and Geographic Areas

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Segments and Geographic Areas

Note 17—Segments and Geographic Areas

Pacific Drilling is engaged in offshore contract drilling operations in international locations, with the operation and management of our ultra-deepwater drillships. Our primary business is to contract our drillships, related equipment and work crews primarily on a dayrate basis. We specialize in technically demanding segments of the offshore drilling business with a focus on deepwater drilling services.

Although we operate in many geographic locations, there is a similarity of economic characteristics among all of our locations, including the nature of services provided and the type of customers. Our drillships are part of a single, global market for contract drilling services and can be redeployed globally due to changing demands. We intend to evaluate the performance of our operating segments based on revenues from external customers and operating profit by rig. The consolidation of our operating segments into one reportable segment is attributable to how we manage our business. The accounting policies of our operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies (Note 2).

As of December 31, 2012, the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco were located offshore Nigeria, the Pacific Mistral was located offshore Brazil, the Pacific Santa Ana was located offshore the United States and the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem were located offshore South Korea, where they are under construction by SHI.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the percentage revenues earned by geographic area as follows is based on drilling location:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Nigeria		63.6	%		100.0	%		—
Brazil		22.1	%		—			—
Gulf of Mexico		14.3	%		—			—

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Fair Value of Derivatives not Designated Hedge Instruments (Detail) (Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Interest Rate Swap, USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liabilities at fair value	$ 2,552
Current Liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liabilities at fair value	978
Other LongTerm Liabilities
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Derivative liabilities at fair value	$ 1,574

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Cash flow from operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ 33,989	$ (2,903)	$ 37,299
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Interest income from Joint Venture	0	(495)	(1,973)
Depreciation expense	127,698	11,619	395
Equity in earnings of Joint Venture		(18,955)	(56,307)
Amortization of deferred revenue	(95,750)	(8,566)
Amortization of deferred mobilization costs	70,660	4,288
Amortization of deferred financing costs	13,926	1,067
Deferred income taxes	(3,766)	(3,169)	(371)
Share-based compensation expense	5,318	4,471	65
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	(89,721)	(45,051)	(17,527)
Materials and supplies	(6,640)	(35,031)	(7,955)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	(61,548)	(108,593)	(2,972)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	33,865	39,437	6,252
Deferred revenue	156,967	97,550	12,955
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	184,998	(64,331)	(30,139)
Cash flow from investing activities:
Capital expenditures	(449,951)	(1,539,630)	(883,853)
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash	204,784	(315,286)	(60,967)
Net cash used in investing activities	(245,167)	(1,854,916)	(944,820)
Cash flow from financing activities:
Proceeds from issuance of common shares, net		625,816
Proceeds from long-term debt	797,415	1,275,000	450,000
Payments on long-term debt	(218,750)	(50,000)
Deferred financing costs	(19,853)	(6,803)	(57,995)
Proceeds from related-party loan		142,205	685,280
Payments on related-party loan			(69,444)
Net cash provided by financing activities	558,812	1,986,218	1,007,841
Decrease (increase) in cash and cash equivalents	498,643	66,971	32,882
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	107,278	40,307	7,425
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ 605,921	$ 107,278	$ 40,307

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Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Net income (loss)	$ 33,989	$ (2,903)	$ 37,299
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Reclassification adjustment for loss on derivative instruments realized in net income		3,000	11,500
Total other comprehensive income (loss)	1,868	(56,568)	(17,450)
Total comprehensive income (loss)	35,857	(59,471)	19,849
Joint Venture
Net income (loss)		9,135
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrecognized gain (loss) on Joint Venture derivative instruments		720	(28,990)
Reclassification adjustment for loss on derivative instruments realized in net income		2,996	11,540
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax, Total		3,716	(17,450)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)		3,716
All Other
Net income (loss)		(12,038)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrecognized gain (loss) on Joint Venture derivative instruments	(22,551)	(62,086)
Reclassification adjustment for loss on derivative instruments realized in net income	24,419	1,802
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax, Total	1,868	(60,284)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)		$ (60,284)

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Share-Based Compensation

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Share-Based Compensation

Note 10—Share-Based Compensation

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, compensation expense recognized related to share-based arrangement grants totaled $5.3 million, $4.5 million and $0.1 million, respectively, and is recorded in general and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of operations.

2009 Stock Plan

On April 24, 2009, the Board of our Predecessor approved the creation of the Pacific Drilling Limited 2009 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the “2009 Stock Plan”), which provided for issuance of common stock options, as well as share appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted share units, and other equity based or equity related awards to directors, officers, employees and consultants of Pacific Drilling. The Board also authorized the issuance of 6,684 common stock options to certain executives and employees at a per share exercise price of $1,000, which the Board determined at issuance to be the fair market value of a share of our Predecessor’s common stock. The options issued in 2009 had a contractual term of 10 years and were scheduled to vest 50%, 25% and 25% on March 31, 2011, 2012 and 2013, respectively.

On December 21, 2010, the Board authorized the issuance of 12,577 common stock options to certain executives and employees at a per share exercise price of $800, which the Board determined at issuance to be the fair market value of a share of our Predecessor’s common stock. The options issued in 2010 had a contractual term of 10 years and were scheduled to vest 25% annually on March 31, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014.

Pursuant to the terms of the options granted, our Predecessor could elect to settle the stock options upon exercise in cash instead of issuing shares of our common stock. The Company anticipated settling any of the 2010 and 2009 stock options in cash. As such, the stock options were accounted for as liability awards at fair value.

2011 Stock Plan

Stock Options

On March 31, 2011, as part of the Restructuring, the Company cancelled the 2009 Stock Plan. Further, the Board approved the creation of the Pacific Drilling S.A. 2011 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (the “2011 Stock Plan”), which provides for issuance of common stock options, as well as share appreciation rights, restricted shares, restricted share units and other equity based or equity related awards to directors, officers, employees and consultants. The Board also resolved that 7.2 million common shares of Pacific Drilling S.A. be reserved and authorized for issuance pursuant to the terms of the 2011 Stock Plan.

In conjunction with the Restructuring and cancellation of stock option grants under the 2009 Stock Plan, the Company issued 1,471,601 common stock options in Pacific Drilling S.A. as a replacement of the 2010 and 2009 stock options. The replacement awards were recorded as a modification of an existing award. As exercises of replacement awards will be settled in common shares, the $2.3 million liability for stock options issued under the 2009 Stock Plan on the date of modification was extinguished and the balance reclassified to additional paid-in capital. Additionally, on March 31, 2011, the Company granted 1,329,710 common stock options to certain executives and employees pursuant to the 2011 Stock Plan.

The 2009 replacement option grants vest 50%, 25% and 25% on March 31, 2011, 2012, and 2013, respectively. The 2010 replacement option grants and the 2011 option grants vest 25% annually over four years commencing on March 31, 2011 and March 31, 2012, respectively. The 2009 replacement option grants, 2010 replacement option grants and the 2011 option grants were issued at an exercise price of $10.00 and have a 10 year contractual term.

The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes option valuation model utilizing the assumptions noted in the table below. Expected volatility is based on implied volatilities from the expected volatility of a representative group of our publicly listed industry peer group as the historical volatility of the Company does not provide a reasonable basis for estimating volatility. The expected terms of the options is calculated using the simplified method as the historical option exercise experience of the Company does not provide a reasonable basis for estimating expected term. The risk free interest rates are determined using the implied yield currently available for zero-coupon U.S. government issues with a remaining term equal to the expected life of the options.

The fair value of the 2011, 2010 and 2009 stock option grants as of March 31, 2011, the date of modification and grant, was calculated using the following assumptions:

	2011 stock options			2010 stock options			2009 stock options
Expected volatility		52	%		53	%		53	%
Expected term (in years)		6.25			6.00			5.75
Expected dividends		—			—			—
Risk-free interest rate		2.65	%		2.57	%		2.49	%

On March 31, 2012, the Company granted 1,294,840 common stock options to certain members of our Board of Directors, executives and employees pursuant to the 2011 Stock Plan. The 2012 option grants vest 25% annually over four years. The 2012 option grants were issued at an exercise price of $10.12 and have a 10 year contractual term.

The fair value of the 2012 stock option grants as of March 31, 2012, the date of grant, was calculated using the following assumptions:

	2012 stock options
Expected volatility		48.5	%
Expected term (in years)		6.25
Expected dividends		—
Risk-free interest rate		1.40	%

A summary of option activity under the 2011 Stock Plan as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012 is as follows:

	Number of shares under option			Weighted-average exercise price (per share)		Weighted-average remaining contractual term (in years)		Aggregate intrinsic value (in thousands)
Outstanding—January 1, 2012		2,788,596		$	10.00
Granted		1,294,840			10.12
Exercised		—			—
Cancelled		—			—
Forfeited or expired		(107,798	)		10.00
Outstanding—December 31, 2012		3,975,638		$	10.04		8.1		—
Exercisable—December 31, 2012		1,121,429		$	10.00		7.3		—

The weighted-average grant-date fair value of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 was $4.85 and $5.24. There were no options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010. As of December 31, 2012, total compensation costs related to nonvested option awards not yet recognized is $10.6 million and is expected to be recognized over 2.5 years.

Restricted Stock Units

On November 2, 2011, we granted awards of 12,000 restricted stock units with a grant date fair value of $8.54 under the 2011 Plan to certain members of our Board of Directors. On March 31, 2012, the Company also granted 297,180 restricted stock units to certain members of our Board of Directors, executives and employees pursuant to the 2011 Stock Plan. These restricted stock units will be settled in shares of our stock and will generally vest over a period of four years.

A summary of restricted stock units activity under the 2011 Stock Plan as of and for the year ended December 31, 2012 is as follows:

	Number of restricted stock units			Weighted-average grant-date fair value (per share)
Nonvested—January 1, 2012		12,000		$	8.54
Granted		297,180			10.12
Vested		(2,000	)		8.54
Forfeited		(17,492	)		10.12
Nonvested—December 31, 2012		289,688		$	10.07

As of December 31, 2012, total compensation costs related to nonvested restricted stock units not yet recognized is $2.4 million and is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3.2 years.

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Document and Entity Information	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012
Document Information [Line Items]
Document Type	20-F
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2012
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2012
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	PACD
Entity Registrant Name	PACIFIC DRILLING S.A.
Entity Central Index Key	0001517342
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	216,902,000

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Derivatives

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Derivatives

Note 11—Derivatives

We are currently exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates. From time to time, we may enter into a variety of derivative financial instruments in connection with the management of our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates and to meet our debt covenant requirements. We do not enter into derivative transactions for speculative purposes; however, for accounting purposes, certain transactions may not meet the criteria for hedge accounting.

During 2011, we entered into four interest rate swaps to reduce the variability of future cash flows in the interest payments for the variable-rate debt under the Project Facilities Agreement. We designated the interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes. The interest rate swaps pay a fixed rate of interest and receive LIBOR. The fixed interest rate swap rates are 1.83%, 1.87%, 1.6% and 2.39% for the Bora Term Loan, Scirocco Term Loan, Mistral Term Loan and Santa Ana Term Loan, respectively. As of December 31, 2012, the notional amounts of the Bora, Scirocco, Mistral and Santa Ana interest rate swaps were $350.0 million, $316.7 million, $331.3 million and $387.5 million, respectively. The notional amounts of the interest rate swaps amortize quarterly and will expire on October 31, 2015.

On December 28, 2012, management de-designated a portion of the Bora, Scirocco, Mistral and Santa Ana interest rate swaps from hedge accounting due to the change in payment frequency of principal payments resulting from the Second Amendment Agreement to the Project Facilities Agreement. Subsequent to de-designation, we account for the de-designated portion of the interest rate swaps on a mark-to-market basis, with both realized and unrealized gains and losses on the de-designated portion recorded currently in earnings in interest expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. As a result of the de-designation, $2.8 million of accumulated other comprehensive income associated with the de-designated portion of the interest rate swap was reclassified into interest expense.

The table below provides data about the fair values of derivatives that are designated as hedge instruments as of December 31, 2012 and 2011:

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments	Derivative liabilities Balance sheet location	December 31,
		2012		2011
		(In thousands)
Short-term—Interest rate swaps	Derivative liabilities, current	$	17,017	$	20,466
Long-term—Interest rate swaps	Other long-term liabilities	$	27,437	$	30,769
Total		$	44,454	$	51,235

As of December 31, 2012, the estimated amount of net losses associated with derivative instruments that would be reclassified to earnings during the next twelve months is $18.5 million.

The table below provides data about the fair values of derivatives that are not designated as hedge instruments as of December 31, 2012 and 2011:

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments	Derivative liabilities Balance sheet location	December 31,
		2012		2011
		(In thousands)
Short-term—Interest rate swaps	Derivative liabilities, current	$	978	$	—
Long-term—Interest rate swaps	Other long-term liabilities	$	1,574	$	—
Total		$	2,552	$	—

The following table summarizes the cash flow hedge gains and losses for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010:

Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships	Amount of income (loss) recognized in equity for the year ended December 31,							Amount of loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income for the year ended December 31,						Amount recognized in income (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing) for the year ended December 31,
	2012		2011			2010		2012		2011		2010		2012		2011		2010
	(In thousands)
Interest rate swaps	$	1,868	$	(60,284	)	$	—	$	24,419	$	1,802	$	—	$	—	$	—	$	—

For the de-designated portion of the interest rate swaps not in a cash flow hedge relationship, gains and losses recorded from December 28, 2012 to December 31, 2012 were immaterial.

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Income and Share Data Used In Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share Computations (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Numerator:
Net income (loss), basic and diluted	$ 33,989	$ (2,903)	$ 37,299
Denominator:
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic	216,901,000	195,447,944	150,000,000
Effect of share-based compensation awards	2,159
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted	216,903,159	195,447,944	150,000,000
Earnings (loss) per share:
Basic	$ 0.16	$ (0.01)	$ 0.25
Diluted	$ 0.16	$ (0.01)	$ 0.25

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 605,921	$ 107,278
Restricted cash	47,444	168,681
Accounts receivable	152,299	62,578
Materials and supplies	49,626	42,986
Deferred financing costs	17,707	15,124
Current portion of deferred mobilization costs	37,519	54,523
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	13,930	10,376
Total current assets	924,446	461,546
Property and equipment, net	3,760,421	3,436,010
Restricted cash	124,740	208,287
Deferred financing costs	32,157	32,386
Other assets	52,164	46,060
Total assets	4,893,928	4,184,289
Liabilities and shareholders' equity:
Accounts payable	30,230	26,845
Accrued expenses	39,345	39,095
Current portion of long-term debt	218,750	218,750
Accrued interest payable	29,594	12,099
Derivative liabilities, current	17,995	20,466
Current portion of deferred revenue	66,142	28,829
Total current liabilities	402,056	346,084
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	2,034,958	1,456,250
Deferred revenue	97,014	73,110
Other long-term liabilities	44,652	34,772
Total long-term liabilities	2,176,624	1,564,132
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' equity:
Common shares, $0.01 par value, 5,000,000,000 shares authorized, 224,100,000 shares issued and 216,902,000 and 216,900,000 shares outstanding as of December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively	2,169	2,169
Additional paid-in capital	2,349,544	2,344,226
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(58,416)	(60,284)
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)	21,951	(12,038)
Total shareholders' equity	2,315,248	2,274,073
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 4,893,928	$ 4,184,289

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Debt

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Debt

Note 5—Debt

A summary of debt is as follows:

	December 31, 2012		December 31, 2011
	(In thousands)
Due within one year:
Bora Term Loan	$	50,000	$	50,000
Mistral Term Loan		62,500		62,500
Scirocco Term Loan		43,750		43,750
Santa Ana Term Loan		62,500		62,500
Total current debt		218,750		218,750
Long-term debt:
Bora Term Loan	$	300,000	$	350,000
Mistral Term Loan		325,000		387,500
Scirocco Term Loan		287,500		331,250
Santa Ana Term Loan		325,000		387,500
8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds		300,000		—
7.25% Senior Secured Notes		497,458		—
Total long-term debt		2,034,958		1,456,250
Total debt	$	2,253,708	$	1,675,000

Project Facilities Agreement

On September 9, 2010, Pacific Bora Ltd., Pacific Mistral Ltd., Pacific Scirocco Ltd., and Pacific Santa Ana Ltd. (collectively, the “Borrowers”), and Pacific Drilling Limited (the “Guarantor”) (collectively, the “Borrowing Group”) entered into a project facilities agreement with a group of lenders to finance the construction, operation and other costs associated with the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Scirocco and the Pacific Santa Ana, (as amended on November 16, 2010, as amended and restated on March 30, 2011 and as further amended and restated on March 30, 2012, the “Original Project Facilities Agreement”). On April 19, 2012, in connection with the Temporary Import Bond Facilities described below, the Borrowing Group amended and restated the Original Project Facilities Agreement by entering into the Third Amended and Restated Project Facilities Agreement (the “Project Facilities Agreement” or “PFA”). On December 28, 2012, the Borrowing Group entered into the Second Amendment Agreement in respect of the Project Facilities Agreement, which changed the frequency of amortization payments from every six months to every three months.

The Project Facilities Agreement includes a term loan with respect to the Pacific Bora, a term loan with respect to the Pacific Mistral, a term loan with respect to the Pacific Scirocco and a term loan with respect to the Pacific Santa Ana (each, a “Term Loan” and, collectively, the “Term Loans” or the “Term Loan Facility”). Each Term Loan consists of three tranches: one provided by a syndicate of ten commercial banks (the “Commercial Tranche”), one provided by the Ministry of Trade and Industry of the Norwegian government (and guaranteed by the Norwegian Guarantee Institute for Export Credits) (the “GIEK Tranche”) and one provided by The Export-Import Bank of Korea (the “KEXIM Tranche”).

In November 2010, we borrowed $450 million under the Bora Term Loan. During 2011, we borrowed $450 million, $375 million and $450 million under the Mistral Term Loan, the Scirocco Term Loan and the Santa Ana Term Loan, respectively. Under the Scirocco Term Loan, $75 million of the aggregated amount available was cancelled, resulting in our collective final borrowings equaling $1.725 billion under the Project Facilities Agreement.

Borrowings under the Term Loans bear interest at the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus an applicable margin. Prior to the effective date of the first drilling contract in respect of a Borrower’s drillship, the applicable margin under the relevant Term Loan is 4% per annum. Subsequent to the effective date of the first drilling contract in respect of such Borrower’s drillship and until 12 months after delivery of all four drillships, the applicable margin is 3.5% per annum. Subsequent to 12 months after the delivery of all four drillships, the applicable margin is based on the Borrowing Group’s historical debt service coverage ratio. If the ratio is not greater than 125%, the applicable margin is 3.5% per annum. If the ratio is greater than 125%, the applicable margin is 3% per annum. Interest is payable every three months.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we incurred $64.4 million, $57.2 million and $12.6 million of interest expense on the Term Loans of which $8.7 million, $51.5 million and $12.6 million was recorded to property and equipment as capitalized interest, respectively.

The Commercial Tranche under the Term Loan Facility matures on October 31, 2015, and the GIEK Tranche and the KEXIM Tranche each mature on October 31, 2019. Each Term Loan requires a residual debt payment of $200 million at maturity of the Commercial Tranche. The GIEK Tranche and the KEXIM Tranche each contain put options exercisable if the Commercial Tranche is not refinanced on terms acceptable to GIEK and/or KEXIM, respectively. If the GIEK Tranche put option or the KEXIM Tranche put option is exercised, each Borrower must prepay, in full, the portion of all outstanding loans that relate to the GIEK Tranche and/or the KEXIM Tranche, as applicable, on the maturity date of the Commercial Tranche, without any premium, penalty or fees of any kind.

Borrowings under the Commercial Tranche may be prepaid in whole or in part with a 1% penalty on the amount prepaid if such prepayment takes place within one year after the delivery of the fourth drillship, and no penalty thereafter. Borrowings under the GIEK Tranche and the KEXIM Tranche may be prepaid in whole or in part with a 0.5% penalty.

With respect to the term loans relating to the Pacific Bora, the Pacific Mistral, the Pacific Scirocco and the Pacific Santa Ana, we are required to make amortization payments of $12.5 million, $15.6 million, $10.9 million and $15.6 million, respectively, every three months, commencing in January 2013, with the residual debt payment of $200 million each due in October 2015.

The indebtedness under the Project Facilities Agreement is guaranteed by the Guarantor. The obligations of the Borrowers under the Term Loan Facility are joint and several. The Project Facilities Agreement is secured by several collateral components, which are usual and customary for such financings. The security provided to the lenders is cross-collateralized across all Term Loans and comprises assignments of refund guarantees, shipbuilding contracts and insurances, a first preferred mortgage over each Borrower’s drillship and other types of collateral.

The Project Facilities Agreement requires compliance with certain affirmative and negative covenants that are customary for such financings. These include, but are not limited to, restrictions on (i) the ability of each of the Borrowers to pay dividends to its shareholder or sell assets and (ii) the ability of the Borrowing Group to incur additional indebtedness or liens, make investments or transact with affiliates (except for certain specified exceptions). The Borrowers are restricted in their ability to transfer their net assets to the Guarantor, whether in the form of dividends, loans or advances. As of December 31, 2012 and December 31, 2011, the Borrowing Group held $1.7 billion and $1.5 billion of restricted net assets, respectively.

The Guarantor (through the Borrowing Group) is also required to (i) enter into and maintain drilling contracts for each drillship (except as permitted pursuant to an executed waiver letter), (ii) maintain cash account balances reserved for debt service payments, (iii) maintain Guarantor liquidity and (iv) maintain contributed equity above certain levels and to meet a required level of collateral maintenance whereby the aggregate appraised collateral value must not be less than a certain percentage of the total outstanding balances and commitments under the Project Facilities Agreement.

The Project Facilities Agreement also requires compliance by the Guarantor with the following financial covenants: (i) a projected (looking forward over the following twelve months) debt service coverage ratio of at least 1.1x through June 30, 2012 and 1.2x thereafter; (ii) a historical (looking back over the preceding twelve months) debt service coverage ratio of at least 1.1x through December 31, 2013 and 1.2x thereafter; (iii) a maximum leverage ratio of 65% and (iv) a minimum liquidity of $50 million (held in a restricted and pledged account with the Security Trustee) after the delivery of all four drillships.

Each Borrower is also required under the Project Facilities Agreement to hedge 75% of outstanding and available balances against floating interest rate exposure.

The Project Facilities Agreement contains events of default that are usual and customary for a financing of this type, size and purpose. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, borrowings under the Project Facilities Agreement are subject to acceleration.

2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds

In February 2012, we completed a private placement of 8.25% senior unsecured U.S. dollar denominated bonds due 2015 (the “2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds”) in aggregate principal amount of $300 million to eligible purchasers. The bonds bear interest at 8.25% per annum, payable semiannually on February 23 and August 23, and mature on February 23, 2015.

The 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds are general unsecured, senior obligations that rank: (i) senior in right of payment to all of the Company’s subordinated indebtedness, if any; (ii) pari passu in right of payment with any of the Company’s existing and future unsecured indebtedness that is not by its terms subordinated to the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds; (iii) effectively junior to the Company’s existing and future senior debt facilities (including the Project Facilities Agreement, the Temporary Import Bond Facilities (as defined below), any future customary senior secured debt facilities provided by banks and/or financial institutions and any future first priority senior secured bond financing obtained to finance our fleet, including any refinancing, amendments or replacements of the debt facilities).

The Company may acquire 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds in the open market, or otherwise, at any time without restriction. Within 60 days after notification of a specified change in control event, each bondholder has the right to exercise an early repayment option at a price equal to 101% of par, plus accrued interest.

During the year ended December 31, 2012, we incurred $21.1 million in interest expense on the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds of which $17.0 million was recorded to property and equipment as capitalized interest, respectively. We did not incur interest expense on the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds during the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.

The 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds contain provisions that limit, with certain exceptions, the ability of the Company and our subsidiaries to (i) merge or demerge, (ii) dispose of assets, (iii) incur financial indebtedness and (iv) pay dividends exceeding 50% of consolidated net income for the preceding fiscal year. The 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds also require compliance with financial covenants including (i) a minimum equity ratio of 35%, (ii) a minimum liquidity of $25 million and (iii) a leverage restriction limiting the outstanding secured and unsecured borrowings on a consolidated basis (excluding Temporary Import Bond Facilities) to an average of $475 million per drillship. The 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds contain events of default that are usual and customary for a financing of this type, size and purpose. Upon the occurrence of an event of default, borrowings under the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds are subject to acceleration.

2017 Senior Secured Notes

In November 2012, Pacific Drilling V Limited (the “Issuer”), an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Pacific Drilling S.A. (the “Parent”), completed a private placement of $500 million (the “2017 Senior Secured Notes”) in aggregate principal amount of 7.25% senior secured U.S. dollar denominated notes due 2017 to eligible purchasers. The 2017 Senior Secured Notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Pacific Drilling S.A. on a senior unsecured basis. The 2017 Senior Secured Notes constitute a new series of debt securities under an indenture dated as of November 28, 2012 (the “Indenture”), among the Issuer, the Parent and each subsidiary guarantor from time to time party thereto, as guarantors, and Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas, as Trustee (in such capacity, the “Trustee”) and Collateral Agent (in such capacity, the “Collateral Agent”).

The 2017 Senior Secured Notes were sold at 99.483% of par. The Notes bear interest at 7.25% per annum, payable semiannually on June 1 and December 1, commencing on June 1, 2013, and mature on December 1, 2017.

As of December 31, 2012, the Issuer has no subsidiaries. Any future subsidiary of the Issuer that holds or will hold the Pacific Khamsin or certain related assets, or is or becomes party to a drilling contract in respect of the Pacific Khamsin, will guarantee the notes on a senior secured basis. None of Pacific Drilling S.A.’s other subsidiaries will be guarantors of the 2017 Senior Secured Notes. The 2017 Senior Secured Notes and the note guarantees will be the Issuer’s and each guarantor subsidiary’s senior obligation, respectively, and will rank equal in right of payment to all existing and future senior indebtedness of the Issuer and such guarantor, respectively, and will rank senior in right of payment to all existing and future subordinated indebtedness of the Issuer and such guarantor, respectively.

Prior to the delivery of the Pacific Khamsin, the 2017 Senior Secured Notes will be secured by a first-priority security interest (subject to certain exceptions) in substantially all of the assets of the Issuer, including the Issuer’s rights under the construction contract and the refund guarantee for the Pacific Khamsin , and by a pledge of the capital stock of the Issuer. Upon delivery of the Pacific Khamsin, the 2017 Senior Secured Notes will also be secured by a first-priority security interest (subject to exceptions) in the Pacific Khamsin, and substantially all of the other assets of the Issuer, including an assignment of earnings and insurance proceeds related to the Pacific Khamsin.

On or after December 1, 2015, the Issuer has the option to redeem the 2017 Senior Secured Notes, in whole or in part, at one time or from time to time, at the redemption prices plus accrued and unpaid interests and additional amounts, if any, as specified in the Indenture. Prior to December 1, 2015, the Issuer may redeem all or any portion of the Notes at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the outstanding notes plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional amounts, if any, to the redemption date, plus a “make-whole” premium. In addition, prior to December 1, 2015, the Issuer may, at its option, on one or more occasions redeem up to 35% of the aggregate original principal amount of the Notes (including any additional Notes) with the net cash proceeds from certain equity offerings of the Parent at a redemption price of 107.250% of the principal amount of the outstanding notes plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional amounts, if any, to the redemption date. The Issuer may also, prior to December 1, 2015, redeem up to 10% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes in any 12 month period at a redemption price equal to 103% of the aggregate principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest and additional amounts, if any, to the redemption date.

During the year ended December 31, 2012, we incurred and capitalized interest expense of $3.4 million on the 2017 Senior Secured Notes. We did not incur interest expense on the 2017 Senior Secured Notes during the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010.

The 2017 Senior Secured Notes contain provisions that limit, with certain exceptions, the ability of Pacific Drilling S.A., the Issuer and Pacific Drilling S.A.’s other restricted subsidiaries to (i) pay dividends, purchase or redeem Pacific Drilling S.A.’s capital stock or subordinated indebtedness of the Issuer or any guarantor or make other restricted payments, (ii) incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue preferred stock, (iii) create or incur liens and (iv) create unrestricted subsidiaries, (v) enter into transactions with affiliates, (vi) enter into new lines of business, (vii) transfer or sell the Pacific Khamsin and other related assets and (vii) merge or demerge. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Issuer held $0 of restricted net assets, respectively.

Temporary Import Bond Facilities

As part of the standard Nigerian importation requirements for equipment, we are required to either import the vessel into Nigeria on a permanent basis and pay import duties or apply for a Temporary Importation (“TI”) permit and put up a bond for the value of the import duties instead. On July 13, 2011, we entered into a temporary Standby Letter of Credit (“SBLC”) facility with Citibank, N.A. to support a TI bond for the Pacific Bora as required in Nigeria (the “Bora TI Bond”). On December 6, 2011, we entered into separate temporary SBLC facilities with each of Citibank, N.A. and Standard Charter Bank to support a TI bond for the Pacific Scirocco as required in Nigeria (collectively, the “Scirocco TI Bond” and, together with the Bora TI Bond, the “TI Bonds”).

Under the SBLC facility for the Pacific Bora, Citibank, N.A., as issuing bank, issued a letter of credit for the benefit of Citibank Nigeria denominated in the Nigerian currency, Naira, in the amount of approximately $99.8 million. This letter of credit provided credit support for the Bora TI Bond that was issued by Citibank Nigeria in favor of the Government of Nigeria Customs Service for the Pacific Bora.

Under the temporary SBLC facilities for the Pacific Scirocco, Citibank, N.A. and Standard Charter Bank, as issuing banks, each issued a letter of credit for the benefit of Citibank Nigeria and Standard Charter Bank Nigeria, respectively, denominated in Naira in the collective amount of approximately $109.5 million. These letters of credit provided credit support for the Scirocco TI Bond that was issued by Citibank Nigeria and Standard Charter Bank Nigeria, respectively, in favor of the Government of Nigeria Customs Service for the Pacific Scirocco.

On April 19, 2012, the temporary SBLC facilities for the Pacific Bora and the Pacific Scirocco were each replaced by a Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement. Under the Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement for the Bora TI Bond (the “Bora TI Facility”), Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent, issuing bank and arranger, has issued a letter of credit for the benefit of Citibank Nigeria in the amount of 14,884,342,426 Naira or approximately $94.5 million as of April 19, 2012. This letter of credit provides credit support for the Bora TI Bond that was issued by Citibank Nigeria in favor of the Government of Nigeria Customs Service for the Pacific Bora.

Under the Letter of Credit Facility and Guaranty Agreement for the Scirocco TI Bond (the “Scirocco TI Facility,” and, together with the Bora TI Facility, the “TI Facilities”), Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent, issuing bank and arranger, has issued letters of credit for the benefit of Citibank Nigeria and Standard Charter Bank Nigeria in the collective amount of 17,280,837,923 Naira or approximately $109.7 million as of April 19, 2012. These letters of credit provide credit support for the TI bonds that were issued by Citibank Nigeria and Standard Charter Bank Nigeria, respectively, in favor of the Government of Nigeria Customs Service for the Pacific Scirocco.

Each letter of credit issued pursuant to the Bora TI Facility and Scirocco TI Facility will expire after a one-year period and will be renewable for up to two additional one-year terms based on the initial contract term of each vessel. In connection with the placement of the Bora TI Facility and the Scirocco TI Facility, our restricted cash deposit obligations were lowered from $50 million and $99 million under the former SBLC facilities to $10.7 million and $12.3 million, respectively, resulting in a release of approximately $126 million of cash collateral. The restricted cash balance required is subject to fluctuations in the U.S. dollar to Naira currency exchange rates.

The TI Facilities require the Company to pay fees, in addition to customary fronting fees, calculated based on outstanding balances of the TI Bonds and each outstanding letter of credit. Fees on the TI Facilities are primarily based on 2.5% of the U.S. dollar equivalent of outstanding balances of the Bora TI Facility and the Scirocco TI Facility. During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, we incurred $5.5 million and $0.7 million, respectively, in interest expense on the TI Facilities.

Maturities of Long-Term Debt

For purposes of preparing our scheduled maturities of debt, borrowings under the GIEK Tranche and the KEXIM Tranche are presented assuming an exercise of the option by GIEK and KEXIM to accelerate the maturity date to October 31, 2015. Maturities of long-term debt for each of the five years ending after December 31, 2012 are as follows:

	(In thousands)
Twelve months ended December 31,
2013	$	218,750
2014		218,750
2015		1,318,750
2016		—
2017		500,000

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Investment In and Notes Receivable from Joint Venture

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Investment In and Notes Receivable from Joint Venture

Note 4—Investment In and Notes Receivable from Joint Venture

A legal entity is a variable interest entity (“VIE”) if the entity’s equity investment at risk does not provide its holders, as a group, with the power through voting or similar rights to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance. We are required to consolidate VIEs if we have the power to direct the activities of a VIE that most significantly impact the entity’s economic performance and the obligation to absorb losses of the entity or the right to receive benefits from the VIE that could potentially be significant to the VIE. If these conditions are met, we have a controlling financial interest and are the primary beneficiary of the VIE.

Once an entity is identified as a VIE, we perform a qualitative assessment to determine whether we are the primary beneficiary. A qualitative assessment begins with an understanding of nature of the risks in the entity as well as the nature of the entity’s activities, including terms of the contracts entered into by the entity, ownership interests issued by the entity, how they were marketed and the parties involved in the design of the entity. We then identify all of the variable interests held by parties involved with the VIE including, among other things, equity investments, debt financing, any financial and performance guarantees and significant contracted service providers. Once we identify the variable interests, we determine those activities that are most significant to the economic performance of the entity and which variable interest holder has the power to direct those activities.

Our Predecessor owned a 50% interest in TPDI that was recorded in our consolidated financial statements through the date of assignment to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group on March 30, 2011. The TPDI Joint Venture was formed with Transocean Offshore International Ventures Limited (“TOIVL”) to construct, own, and operate or charter two deepwater drillships, named the Dhirubai Deepwater KG1 (“KG1”) and Dhirubai Deepwater KG2 (“KG2”). Until the formation of the Joint Venture in 2007, both drillships under construction were owned by Pacific Drilling. KG1 started operating in July 2009 and KG2 started operating in March 2010.

The Joint Venture Shareholder Agreement defined the rights and restrictions with respect to the governance and management of TPDI. Among other things, the Joint Venture Shareholder Agreement provided that TOIVL may provide certain incidental general and administrative functions on behalf of TPDI, including procurement and payables, treasury and cash management, personnel and payroll and accounting. At inception, the Joint Venture Shareholders also entered into construction management agreements that provided TOIVL would design, construct, equip and test the TPDI deepwater drillships.

The Joint Venture Shareholders entered into a marketing agreement with TOIVL that granted TOIVL an exclusive right to market the TPDI deepwater drillships for use in any territory or region. The Joint Venture Shareholders also entered into an operating agreement with TOIVL that appointed TOIVL to act as the operator of the TPDI deepwater drillships, including day-to-day management and supervision and operating, maintenance, administrative and related services.

The Joint Venture Shareholder Agreement required Joint Venture Shareholders each provide capital or loans to the Company, to the extent expenditures were not funded by third-party indebtedness, in proportion to their respective ownership percentages to fund (1) all expenditures required to be made under various management service agreements, (2) any performance guarantees, surety bonds, or letters of credit, (3) an adequate level of working capital for the Company and (4) additional requirements agreed to by the Joint Venture Shareholders.

The Joint Venture Shareholders entered into an agreement under which Pacific Drilling, beginning on October 18, 2010, had the right to exchange its interest in the Joint Venture for shares of Transocean Ltd. or cash at a purchase price based on an appraisal of the fair value of the KG1 and KG2, subject to various customary adjustments.

We determined that the Joint Venture met the criteria of a VIE as TPDI’s equity investment at risk was not sufficient for the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support. We also determined that Transocean was the primary beneficiary for accounting purposes since Transocean a) had the power to direct the marketing and operating activities, which were the activities that most significantly impact TPDI’s economic performance and b) had the obligation to absorb losses or the right to receive benefits that could potentially be significant to the VIE. As a result, we accounted for TPDI as an equity method investment in our consolidated financial statements.

At inception, the Joint Venture shareholders entered into promissory note agreements with TPDI to fund the formation of the Joint Venture. The promissory notes accrued interest at LIBOR plus 2% per annum with semi-annual interest payments. The Joint Venture, upon providing written notice, was permitted to defer payment of interest (including any prior deferred interest) to the following interest payment date. During 2011 and 2010, the Joint Venture elected to defer interest payments due under the promissory notes.

The loans were scheduled to mature ten years after the date of the respective notes. The Joint Venture, upon providing written notice, was permitted to defer the maturity date for a period of up to ten years. The Joint Venture was not required to make any payments of principal or interest prior to the maturity date. The Joint Venture capitalized interest expense on the Shareholder promissory notes as a cost of property and equipment through the date the deepwater drillships were placed in service.

During 2009, the Joint Venture entered into interest rate swaps, which are designated as cash flow hedges of the future interest payments on variable rate borrowings under its bank credit facilities to reduce the variability of cash interest payments. During the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, Pacific Drilling reclassified $3.0 million and $11.5 million, respectively, of losses previously recognized as accumulated other comprehensive income to equity in earnings of Joint Venture. The Joint Venture recognizes gains and losses associated with the ineffective portion of the cash flow hedges in interest expense in the period in which they are realized. During the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Joint Venture recorded ineffectiveness gains (losses) of $0.6 million and $(0.3) million, respectively, to interest expense.

In April 2010, Transocean and Pacific Drilling entered into a letter of credit fee agreement whereby Transocean agreed to provide a letter of credit as needed for purposes of TPDI’s compliance with the terms under TPDI’s bank credit facility. In return, Pacific Drilling agreed to pay Transocean our 50% share of a 4.2% per annum fee on the required letter of credit amount. During the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, Pacific Drilling incurred $0.3 million and $0.9 million, respectively, of fees related to this agreement that is recorded as interest expense in our consolidated statement of operations.

On March 30, 2011, the Company assigned its interests in TPDI’s equity, notes receivable from Joint Venture and accrued interest on promissory notes from Joint Venture to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group. The TPDI interests have been assigned on March 31, 2011, which date was used for convenience after our conclusion that there were no material intervening transactions between March 30, 2011 and March 31, 2011. The assignment was recorded and presented as a dividend in-kind within our consolidated financial statements.

A summarized consolidated balance sheet of TPDI is as follows:

	March 31, 2011
	(In thousands)
Balance sheet:
Current assets	$	193,479
Property and equipment, net		1,421,215
Other assets		8,957
Total assets	$	1,623,651
Current liabilities	$	275,022
Long-term liabilities		1,216,010
Shareholders’ equity		132,619
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity	$	1,623,651

Summarized TPDI consolidated results of operations are as follows:

	For the three months ended March 31, 2011			Year ended December 31, 2010
	(In thousands)
Income statement:
Operating revenues	$	90,414		$	304,092
Operating expenses		35,492			129,214
Operating income		54,922			174,878
Interest expense, net		(13,958	)		(52,762	)
Other expense		(99	)		(138	)
Income before income taxes		40,865			121,978
Income tax expense		4,166			13,715
Net income	$	36,699		$	108,263

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Related-Party Transactions

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Related-Party Transactions

Note 16—Related-Party Transactions

Prior to the Restructuring, we received funding in the form of a related-party loan as presented in our consolidated financial statements and described in Note 8 and Note 9. On December 31, 2010, the Quantum Pacific Group was assigned all outstanding principal and accrued interest of the loan from Winter Finance, which was then converted into 1,115,761 shares of Pacific Drilling. During the year ended December 31, 2011, we borrowed $142.2 million under the related-party loan. On March 23, 2011, all outstanding related–party loan principal and accrued interest, in the amount of $142.8 million, was converted into equity of Pacific Drilling Limited.

Prior to the TPDI Transfer, the Company entered into promissory note agreements with TPDI and Transocean to fund TPDI as presented in our consolidated financial statements and described in Note 4. The promissory notes accrued interest at LIBOR plus 2% per annum. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, promissory notes to the Joint Venture and the accrued interest receivable on these promissory notes were $0. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the Company recorded related-party interest income from the Joint Venture of $0, $0.5 million and $2.0 million on the promissory notes, respectively.

On March 30, 2011, we transferred our equity interest in TPDI, including promissory notes, to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group. We did not receive any consideration for the transfer. In connection with the TPDI Transfer, we entered into a management agreement pursuant to which we provided day-to-day oversight and management services with respect to the Quantum Pacific Group’s equity interest in TPDI for a fee of $4,000 per drillship per day, or $8,000 per day. On May 31, 2012, as a result of Quantum Pacific’s divestiture of their equity position in TPDI, this management agreement was terminated. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010 management fee income of $1.2 million, $2.2 million and $0, respectively, was recorded in other income within our consolidated statements of operations.

The joint venture agreements relating to TPDI provided Quantum Pacific Group with a put option that allowed it to exchange its 50% interest in TPDI for shares of Transocean Ltd. or cash at a purchase price based on an appraisal of the fair value of the two vessels owned by TPDI, subject to various customary adjustments. In conjunction with the TPDI Transfer and a related amendment to the Original Project Facilities Agreement, a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group provided the TPDI Put Option Guarantee. In consideration for the TPDI Put Option Guarantee, we agreed to pay the Quantum Pacific Group a fee of 0.25% per annum on the outstanding borrowings on the Project Facilities Agreement. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, guarantee fees of $1.3 million, $1.9 million and $0 were incurred of which $0.5 million, $1.5 million and $0 were recorded to property and equipment as capitalized interest costs, respectively. On April 24, 2012, the Quantum Pacific Group TPDI Put Option Guarantee was terminated and the Quantum Pacific Group was released from its obligations thereunder. In connection with the termination and release of the TPDI Put Option Guarantee, we were released from our obligation to pay the Quantum Pacific Group a fee of 0.25% per annum on the outstanding borrowings on the Project Facilities Agreement and the related agreement was terminated.

In February 2012, the Quantum Pacific Group purchased $40 million of the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds. Following their initial purchase, the Quantum Pacific Group sold the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds purchased to unrelated parties. See Note 5 for a description of the 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds.

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Fair Value Measurements

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Fair Value Measurements

Note 12—Fair Value Measurements

We have estimated fair value by using appropriate valuation methodologies and information available to management as of December 31, 2012 and 2011. Considerable judgment is required in developing these estimates, and accordingly, estimated values may differ from actual results.

The estimated fair value of accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses approximates their carrying value due to their short-term nature. Additionally, the estimated fair value of current and noncurrent restricted cash approximates its carrying value as it consists of cash and cash equivalent balances. The estimated fair value of our Project Facilities Agreement debt approximates carrying value because the variable rates approximate current market rates. As of December 31, 2012, we estimated the fair value of our 2015 Senior Unsecured Bonds and our 2017 Senior Secured Notes to be approximately $308.9 million and $512.5 million compared to their carrying value of $300.0 million and $497.5 million. We estimate the fair values of our variable-rate and fixed-rate debts using significant other observable inputs, which represent Level 2 fair value measurements.

The following table presents the carrying value and estimated fair value of our financial instruments recognized at fair value on a recurring basis:

	December 31, 2012
			Fair value measurements using
	Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(in thousands)
Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps	$	47,006		—		47,006		—
	December 31, 2011
			Fair value measurements using
	Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(in thousands)
Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps	$	51,235		—		51,235		—

We use an income approach to value assets and liabilities for outstanding interest rate swaps. These contracts are valued using a discounted cash flow model that calculates the present value of future cash flows under the terms of the contracts using market information as of the reporting date, such as prevailing interest rates. The determination of the fair values above incorporates various factors, including the impact of the counterparty’s non-performance risk with respect to the Company’s financial assets and the Company’s non-performance risk with respect to the Company’s financial liabilities. The Company has not elected to offset the fair value amounts recognized for multiple derivative instruments executed with the same counterparty, but report them gross on its consolidated balance sheets.

Refer to Note 11 for further discussion of the Company’s use of derivative instruments and their fair values.

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Statement of Operations (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended			10 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011 Parent Company	Dec. 31, 2012 Parent Company
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
General and administrative expenses	$ (45,386)	$ (52,614)	$ (19,715)	$ (1,295)	$ (4,147)
Operating income (loss)	157,142	(12,444)	(20,110)	(1,295)	(4,147)
Equity in earnings (losses) of subsidiaries		18,955	56,307	(10,757)	42,906
Interest expense	(104,685)	(10,384)	(858)		(4,510)
Other income	3,245	3,675	(62)	14	(260)
Net income (loss)	$ 33,989	$ (2,903)	$ 37,299	$ (12,038)	$ 33,989
Earnings (loss) per common share, basic	$ 0.16	$ (0.01)	$ 0.25	$ (0.06)	$ 0.16
Weighted average number of common shares, basic	216,901,000	195,447,944	150,000,000	210,321,818	216,901,000
Earnings (loss) per common share, diluted	$ 0.16	$ (0.01)	$ 0.25	$ (0.06)	$ 0.16
Weighted average number of common shares, diluted	216,903,159	195,447,944	150,000,000	210,321,818	216,903,159

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Related-Party Loan

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Related-Party Loan

Note 8—Related-Party Loan

The related-party loan was provided by Winter Finance Limited (“Winter Finance”), a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group. In November 2010, the Company made a $69.4 million related-party loan payment in conjunction and compliance with the first utilization under the Bora Term Loan and $655 million of the related-party loan was converted into equity. On December 31, 2010, all outstanding related–party loan principal and accrued interest, in the amount of $892.6 million, was converted into equity in Pacific Drilling Limited. During the year ended December 31, 2011, Pacific Drilling borrowed $142.2 million. On March 23, 2011, all outstanding related–party loan principal and accrued interest, in the amount of $142.8 million, was converted into equity of Pacific Drilling Limited. Following the conversion, the Intercompany Loan Agreement was terminated.

Borrowings under the intercompany revolving loan agreement accrued interest at the rate of six percent per annum. During the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, Pacific Drilling incurred and capitalized interest expense of $0.6 million and $60.1 million, respectively, on the related-party loan as a cost of property and equipment.

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Related-Party Loan - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 23, 2011	Nov. 29, 2010	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011 Related-party loan	Dec. 31, 2010 Related-party loan	Dec. 31, 2012 Related-party loan
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related-party loan payment		$ 69,400,000	$ 69,444,000
Conversion of related-party loan into equity	142,800,000	655,000,000
Issuance of shares upon conversion of related-party loan			892,609,000
Related-party loan				142,200,000
Accrued interest rate per annum							6.00%
Capitalized interest recorded to property and equipment					$ 600,000	$ 60,100,000

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Restricted Cash

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Restricted Cash

Note 6—Restricted Cash

Restricted cash consists primarily of bank accounts held with financial institutions as security for the Project Facilities Agreement and the Temporary Import Bond Facilities.

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Income Taxes

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Income Taxes

Note 7—Income Taxes

Pacific Drilling S.A., a holding company and Luxembourg resident, is subject to Luxembourg corporate income tax and municipal business tax at a combined rate of 28.8 percent. Qualifying dividend income and capital gains on the sale of qualifying investments in subsidiaries are exempt from Luxembourg corporate income tax and municipal business tax. Consequently, Pacific Drilling S.A. expects dividends from its subsidiaries and capital gains from sales of investments in its subsidiaries to be exempt from Luxembourg corporate income tax and municipal business tax.

Income taxes have been provided based on the laws and rates in effect in the countries in which our operations are conducted or in which our subsidiaries are considered residents for income tax purposes. Our income tax expense or benefit arises from our mix of pretax earnings or losses, respectively, in the international tax jurisdictions in which we operate. Because the countries in which we operate have different statutory tax rates and tax regimes with respect to one another, there is no expected relationship between the provision for income taxes and our income or loss before income taxes.

Income / (loss) before income taxes consisted of the following:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
	(In thousands)
Luxembourg	$	(24,451	)	$	(1,281	)	$	—
United States		(444	)		(2,753	)		498
Other Jurisdictions		80,597			4,331			36,752
Total	$	55,702		$	297		$	37,250

The components of income tax (provision) / benefit consisted of the following:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011
	(In thousands)
Current income tax expense:
Luxembourg	$	(535	)	$	—		$	—
United States		(4,404	)		(164	)		(301	)
Other Foreign		(20,540	)		(6,205	)		(21	)
Total current	$	(25,479	)	$	(6,369	)	$	(322	)
Deferred tax benefit:
Luxembourg	$	32		$	—		$	—
United States		4,646			782			344
Other Foreign		(912	)		2,387			27
Total deferred	$	3,766		$	3,169		$	371
Income tax (expense) benefit	$	(21,713	)	$	(3,200	)	$	49

A reconciliation between the Luxembourg statutory rate of 28.8 percent and Liberian statutory rate of zero percent and our effective tax rate is as follows:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Statutory rate		28.8	%		28.8	%		—
Effect of tax rates different than the Luxembourg statutory tax rate		6.8	%		108.5	%		(0.1	)%
Change in valuation allowance		3.4	%		934.1	%		—
Adjustments related to prior years		—			6.0	%		—
Effective tax rate		39.0	%		1,077.4	%		(0.1	)%

The components of deferred tax assets and liabilities consist of the following:

	December 31,
	2012			2011
	(In thousands)
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards	$	4,671		$	2,547
Accrued payroll expenses		4,644			2,175
Deferred revenue		5,592			2,410
Other		23			18
Deferred tax assets		14,930			7,150
Less: valuation allowance		(4,476	)		(2,547	)
Total deferred tax assets	$	10,454		$	4,603
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation and amortization	$	(1,125	)	$	(1,063	)
Deferred expenses		(2,024	)		—
Total deferred tax liabilities	$	(3,149	)	$	(1,063	)
Net deferred tax assets	$	7,305		$	3,540

As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the Company had gross deferred tax assets of $4.7 million and $2.5 million related to loss carry forwards in various worldwide tax jurisdictions. The majority of the loss carry forwards have no expiration.

A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is established when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, the valuation allowance for deferred tax assets was $4.5 million and $2.5 million, respectively. The increase in our valuation allowance primarily resulted from losses incurred in Nigeria and Brazil during the year ended December 31, 2012, for which we believe it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.

We consider the earnings of certain of our subsidiaries to be indefinitely reinvested. As such, we have not provided for taxes on these unremitted earnings. Should we make a distribution from the unremitted earnings of these subsidiaries, we would be subject to taxes payable to various jurisdictions. At December 31, 2012, the amount of indefinitely reinvested earnings was approximately $29 million. If all of these indefinitely reinvested earnings were distributed, we would be subject to estimated taxes of approximately $0.4 million.

We recognize tax benefits from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by taxing authorities based on the technical merits of the position. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, we have not accrued any liabilities with respect to uncertain tax positions. We will recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense.

Pacific Drilling is subject to taxation in various U.S., foreign, and state jurisdictions in which it conducts business. Tax years as early as 2009 remain subject to examination. As of December 31, 2012, Pacific Drilling’s only ongoing tax audit is in Nigeria and relates to the 2011 tax year. The audit recently commenced and no issues have been raised to date. There are no other known pending tax audits.

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Shareholder's Equity

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Shareholder's Equity

Note 9—Shareholder’s Equity

As of December 31, 2009, the common stock of Pacific Drilling Limited consisted of 805,000 shares of authorized and issued common stock with $0.001 par value.

On November 29, 2010, $655 million of the related-party loan from Winter Finance was assigned to Quantum. The related-party loan was then converted to equity in Pacific Drilling, in the form of additional paid in capital by means of it being contributed, by Quantum, as an additional capital contribution for the common stock held by it as sole shareholder of the Company.

On December 10, 2010, the Board of Pacific Drilling Limited authorized and approved an amendment and restatement of its Articles of Incorporation, to increase the authorized number of shares of common stock, no par value per share, to 2,000,000 shares of common stock.

On December 31, 2010, Quantum was assigned all outstanding principal and accrued interest of the related-party loan from Winter Finance, which was then converted to equity, in the amount of $892.6 million, in Pacific Drilling in exchange for the issuance of 1,115,761 shares of common stock.

On March 11, 2011, Pacific Drilling S.A. was incorporated under the form of a société anonyme governed by the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg with a share capital of $50,000 represented by 50,000 common shares, no par value.

On March 23, 2011, Quantum Pacific Group was assigned all outstanding principal and accrued interest of the related-party loan in the amount of $142.8 million, which was then converted to equity in the Company by means of it being contributed as additional consideration for the existing shares held by it as sole shareholder of the Company.

On March 30, 2011, the Company assigned its interests in TPDI’s equity, promissory notes to Joint Venture and accrued interest on promissory notes from Joint Venture to a subsidiary of the Quantum Pacific Group. The assignment was recorded and presented as a dividend in-kind within our consolidated financial statements.

Additionally, on March 30, 2011, the Board of Pacific Drilling S.A. resolved to split the 50,000 incorporation common shares into 5,000,000 common shares, no par value. The Board also resolved for Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited to become the indirect sole shareholder of all issued Pacific Drilling Limited common shares in exchange for the issuance of 145,000,000 common shares of Pacific Drilling S.A. Further, on March 30, 2011, the shareholder held a general meeting to approve amending the Company’s Articles to authorize the Board of Directors, for a period of five years, to issue up to $50,000,000 of share capital (inclusive of current share capital of the Company).

On April 5, 2011, Pacific Drilling completed a private placement of 60,000,000 common shares for net proceeds of approximately $575.5 million, $0.01 par value.

In November 2011, the Company completed an initial public offering of 6,000,000 common shares. In December 2011, the underwriters purchased an additional 900,000 common shares pursuant to the full exercise of an over-allotment option. The initial public offering resulted in net proceeds of approximately $50.3 million.

In December 2011, the Company also issued 7,200,000 common shares to one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, which represents 3.3% of our outstanding common shares. These common shares are held in treasury for purposes of administering our Pacific Drilling S.A. 2011 Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan.

As of December 31, 2012, the Company’s share capital consisted of 5,000,000,000 common shares authorized, 224,100,000 common shares issued and 216,902,000 common shares outstanding of which approximately 69.2% is held by Quantum Pacific (Gibraltar) Limited.

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Summary of Option Activity (Detail) (2011 Stock Plan, USD $)	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012
2011 Stock Plan
Number of shares under option
Outstanding - January 1, 2012			2,788,596
Granted	1,294,840	1,329,710	1,294,840
Exercised
Cancelled
Forfeited or expired			(107,798)
Outstanding - December 31, 2012			3,975,638
Exercisable - December 31, 2012			1,121,429
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Outstanding - January 1, 2012			$ 10.00
Granted			$ 10.12
Exercised
Cancelled
Forfeited or expired			$ 10.00
Outstanding - December 31, 2012			$ 10.04
Exercisable - December 31, 2012			$ 10.00
Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
Outstanding - December 31, 2012			8 years 1 month 6 days
Exercisable - December 31, 2012			7 years 3 months 18 days
Aggregate intrinsic value
Outstanding - December 31, 2012
Exercisable - December 31, 2012

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Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended			10 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011 Parent Company	Dec. 31, 2012 Parent Company
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Net income (loss)	$ 33,989	$ (2,903)	$ 37,299	$ (12,038)	$ 33,989
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Unrecognized loss on derivative instruments				(62,086)	(22,551)
Reclassification adjustment for loss on derivative instruments realized in net income		3,000	11,500	1,802	24,419
Total other comprehensive income ( loss)	1,868	(56,568)	(17,450)	(60,284)	1,868
Total comprehensive income (loss)	$ 35,857	$ (59,471)	$ 19,849	$ (72,322)	$ 35,857

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Derivatives - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 28, 2012	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011 Derivative
Derivative [Line Items]
Number of derivative contracts			4
Interest rate swap expiry date		Oct. 31, 2015
Accumulated other comprehensive income associated with de-designated portion of the interest rate swap was reclassified into interest expense	$ 2.8
Derivative instruments estimated amount of net losses that would be reclassified to earnings during the next twelve months		18.5
Bora Term Loan
Derivative [Line Items]
Fixed interest rate swap rates			1.83%
Interest rate swap notional amounts		350.0
Scirocco Term Loan
Derivative [Line Items]
Fixed interest rate swap rates			1.87%
Interest rate swap notional amounts		316.7
Mistral Term Loan
Derivative [Line Items]
Fixed interest rate swap rates			1.60%
Interest rate swap notional amounts		331.3
Santa Ana Term Loan
Derivative [Line Items]
Fixed interest rate swap rates			2.39%
Interest rate swap notional amounts		$ 387.5

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Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Stock Options (Detail) (2011 Stock Plan, Stock Options)	1 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2012	Mar. 31, 2011	Mar. 31, 2010	Mar. 31, 2009
2011 Stock Plan | Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected volatility	48.50%	52.00%	53.00%	53.00%
Expected term (in years)	6 years 3 months	6 years 3 months	6 years	5 years 9 months
Expected dividends
Risk-free interest rate	1.40%	2.65%	2.57%	2.49%

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Debt (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Summary of Debt

A summary of debt is as follows:

	December 31, 2012		December 31, 2011
	(In thousands)
Due within one year:
Bora Term Loan	$	50,000	$	50,000
Mistral Term Loan		62,500		62,500
Scirocco Term Loan		43,750		43,750
Santa Ana Term Loan		62,500		62,500
Total current debt		218,750		218,750
Long-term debt:
Bora Term Loan	$	300,000	$	350,000
Mistral Term Loan		325,000		387,500
Scirocco Term Loan		287,500		331,250
Santa Ana Term Loan		325,000		387,500
8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds		300,000		—
7.25% Senior Secured Notes		497,458		—
Total long-term debt		2,034,958		1,456,250
Total debt	$	2,253,708	$	1,675,000

Maturities of Long Term Debt

Maturities of long-term debt for each of the five years ending after December 31, 2012 are as follows:

	(In thousands)
Twelve months ended December 31,
2013	$	218,750
2014		218,750
2015		1,318,750
2016		—
2017		500,000

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Summary of Debt (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2012 Bora Term Loan	Dec. 31, 2011 Bora Term Loan	Dec. 31, 2012 Mistral Term Loan	Dec. 31, 2011 Mistral Term Loan	Dec. 31, 2012 Scirocco Term Loan	Dec. 31, 2011 Scirocco Term Loan	Dec. 31, 2012 Santa Ana Term Loan	Dec. 31, 2011 Santa Ana Term Loan	Dec. 31, 2012 8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds	Feb. 29, 2012 8.25% Senior Unsecured Bonds	Dec. 31, 2012 7.25% Senior Secured Notes
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Current portion of long-term debt	$ 218,750	$ 218,750	$ 50,000	$ 50,000	$ 62,500	$ 62,500	$ 43,750	$ 43,750	$ 62,500	$ 62,500
Long-term debt, non current	2,034,958	1,456,250	300,000	350,000	325,000	387,500	287,500	331,250	325,000	387,500	300,000	300,000	497,458
Total debt	$ 2,253,708	$ 1,675,000

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Retirement Plan

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Retirement Plan

Note 14—Retirement Plan

Pacific Drilling sponsors a defined contribution retirement plan covering substantially all U.S. employees (the “U.S. Savings Plan”) and an international savings plan (the “International Savings Plan”). Under the U.S. Savings Plan, the Company matches 100% of employee contributions (limited to $17,000 or, for employees age 50 or over, $22,500) up to 6% of eligible compensation per participant. Under the International Savings Plan, we contribute 6% of base income (limited to $15,000 per participant). During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, our total employer contributions to both plans amounted to $3.7 million, $2.8 million and $0.5 million, respectively.

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Supplemental Cash Flow Information

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Note 19—Supplemental Cash Flow Information

During the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, we paid $70.9 million and $3.0 million of interest, net of amounts capitalized, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2010, all amounts paid for interest were capitalized. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we paid income taxes of $19.3 million, $0.5 million, and $0, respectively.

Capital expenditures in our consolidated statements of cash flows include the effect of changes in accrued capital expenditures, which are capital expenditures that were accrued but unpaid at period end. We have included these amounts in accounts payable, accrued expenses and accrued interest in our consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2012 and 2011. During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, capital expenditures includes the decrease in accrued capital expenditures of $4.0 million and the increase in accrued capital expenditures of $1.3 million and $79.4 million in our consolidated statements of cash flows, respectively.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, non-cash amortization of deferred financing costs and accretion of debt discount totaling $3.6 million, $13.2 million and $3.0 million, respectively, were capitalized to property and equipment. Accordingly, these amounts are excluded from capital expenditures in our consolidated statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010.

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Summarized Consolidated Balance Sheet (Detail) (Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc, USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2011
Transocean Pacific Drilling Inc
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Current assets	$ 193,479
Property and equipment, net	1,421,215
Other assets	8,957
Total assets	1,623,651
Current liabilities	275,022
Long-term liabilities	1,216,010
Shareholders' equity	132,619
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	$ 1,623,651

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Segments and Geographic Areas (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Percentage of Revenue Earned by Geographical Area

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, the percentage revenues earned by geographic area as follows is based on drilling location:

	Years ended December 31,
	2012			2011			2010
Nigeria		63.6	%		100.0	%		—
Brazil		22.1	%		—			—
Gulf of Mexico		14.3	%		—			—

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Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 10, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Common shares, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01		$ 0.001
Common shares, shares authorized	5,000,000,000	5,000,000,000	2,000,000	805,000
Common shares, shares issued	224,100,000	224,100,000		805,000
Common shares, shares outstanding	216,902,000	216,900,000

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Statement of Cash Flows (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended			10 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2011 Parent Company	Dec. 31, 2012 Parent Company
Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items]
Cash flow from operating activities:	$ 184,998	$ (64,331)	$ (30,139)	$ (11,845)	$ 10,031
Cash flow from investing activities:
Capital contributions to consolidated subsidiaries				(606,745)	(310,994)
Cash flow from financing activities:
Issuance of common shares		625,816		625,816
Proceeds from long-term debt	797,415	1,275,000	450,000		300,000
Deferred financing costs	(19,853)	(6,803)	(57,995)		(6,108)
Net cash provided by financing activities	558,812	1,986,218	1,007,841	625,816	293,892
Decrease (increase) in cash and cash equivalents	498,643	66,971	32,882	7,226	(7,071)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	107,278	40,307	7,425		7,226
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ 605,921	$ 107,278	$ 40,307	$ 7,226	$ 155

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Property and Equipment

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Property and Equipment

Note 3—Property and Equipment

Property and equipment consists of the following as of:

	December 31,
	2012			2011
	(In thousands)
Drillships and related equipment	$	3,892,623		$	3,435,665
Other property and equipment		7,025			12,441
Property and equipment, cost		3,899,648			3,448,106
Accumulated depreciation		(139,227	)		(12,096	)
Property and equipment, net	$	3,760,421		$	3,436,010

On March 15, 2011, we entered into two contracts with SHI for the construction of our fifth and sixth new advanced-capability, ultra-deepwater drillships, the Pacific Khamsin and the Pacific Sharav, which are expected to be delivered to us at the shipyard in the second quarter and fourth quarter of 2013, respectively. On March 16, 2012, we entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of the Pacific Meltem, our seventh advanced-capability, ultra-deepwater drillship, which is expected to be delivered to us at the shipyard in the second quarter of 2014. The construction contract for the Pacific Meltem also includes an option for an eighth newbuild drillship on the same terms and conditions as those for the Pacific Meltem. The option was originally valid until June 15, 2012 and was subsequently extended through January 18, 2013 at no cost. In January 2013, we exercised our option and entered into an additional contract with SHI for the construction of our eighth drillship, which is expected to be delivered in the first quarter of 2015 (see Note 21).

The SHI contracts for the Pacific Khamsin, the Pacific Sharav and the Pacific Meltem provide for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $1.5 billion for the acquisition of these three vessels, payable in installments during the construction process, of which we have made payments of $374.3 million through December 31, 2012. We anticipate making payments of approximately $797.3 million in 2013 and approximately $329.8 million in 2014.

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, we capitalized interest costs of $33.2 million, $71.0 million and $99.0 million, respectively, on assets under construction.

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Reconciliation Between Luxembourg Statutory Rate and Liberian Statutory Rate and Our Effective Tax Rate (Detail)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Schedule Of Effective Tax Rates Line Items
Statutory rate	28.80%	28.80%
Effect of tax rates different than the Luxembourg statutory tax rate	6.80%	108.50%	(0.10%)
Change in valuation allowance	3.40%	934.10%
Adjustments related to prior years		6.00%
Effective tax rate	39.00%	1077.40%	(0.10%)

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Liquidity - Additional Information (Detail)		1 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012 Contract	Jun. 30, 2012 Pacific Sharav	Nov. 30, 2012 Pacific Khamsin
Long-term Contract for Purchase of Drillships [Line Items]
Drilling contract term		5 years	2 years
Number of drillships received	4

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Cash Flow Hedge Gains and Losses (Detail) (Cash Flow Hedging, Interest Rate Swap, USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Cash Flow Hedging | Interest Rate Swap
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Amount of income (loss) recognized in equity	$ 1,868	$ (60,284)
Amount of loss reclassified from accumulated OCI into income	24,419	1,802
Amount recognized in income (ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing)

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Liquidity

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Liquidity

Note 20—Liquidity

Our liquidity requirements include funding ongoing working capital needs, repaying our outstanding indebtedness and anticipated capital expenditures, which largely comprise our progress payments for our ultra-deepwater drillship construction projects, and maintaining adequate cash reserves to compensate the effects of fluctuations in operating cash flows.

As of December 31, 2012, we have taken delivery of four of our ultra-deepwater drillships, all of which are operating under long-term drilling contracts. The Pacific Bora, the Pacific Scirocco, the Pacific Mistral and the Pacific Santa Ana commenced drilling operations on August 26, 2011, December 31, 2011, February 6, 2012 and May 4, 2012, respectively. Additionally, the Pacific Sharav entered into a five-year drilling contract in June 2012 and the Pacific Khamsin entered into a two-year drilling contract in November 2012.

Our ability to meet these liquidity requirements will depend in large part on our future operating and financial performance. Primary sources of funds for our short-term liquidity needs will be cash flow generated from operating and financing activities and available cash balances. Our liquidity fluctuates depending on a number of factors, including, among others, our revenue efficiency and the timing of collecting accounts receivable as well as amounts paid for operating costs. We believe that our cash on hand and cash flows generated from operating and financing activities will provide sufficient liquidity over the next twelve months to fund our working capital needs, amortization payments on our long-term debt and anticipated capital expenditures for the Company’s ultra-deepwater drillship construction projects.

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Retirement Plan - Additional Information (Detail) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Employer contributions to both plans	$ 3,700,000	$ 2,800,000	$ 500,000
Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan maximum annual contribution	15,000
Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit | UNITED STATES
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Matching contribution percentage	100.00%
Eligible compensation, percentage	6.00%
Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit | UNITED STATES | Minimum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan maximum annual contribution	17,000
Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit | UNITED STATES | Maximum
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Defined contribution plan maximum annual contribution	$ 22,500
Employees age	50
Foreign Postretirement Benefit Plans, Defined Benefit | International
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Matching contribution percentage	6.00%

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Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Carrying Value and Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments Recognized at Fair Value on Recurring Basis

The following table presents the carrying value and estimated fair value of our financial instruments recognized at fair value on a recurring basis:

	December 31, 2012
			Fair value measurements using
	Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(in thousands)
Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps	$	47,006		—		47,006		—
	December 31, 2011
			Fair value measurements using
	Carrying value		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(in thousands)
Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps	$	51,235		—		51,235		—

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Commitments and Contingencies

12 Months Ended

Dec. 31, 2012

Commitments and Contingencies

Note 13—Commitments and Contingencies

Operating Leases—The Company leases office space in countries it operates. The future minimum lease payments under the non-cancelable operating leases with lease terms in excess of one year are as follows:

	(In thousands)
Years ending December 31,
2013	$	1,041
2014		1,057
2015		751
2016		738
2017		757
Thereafter		2,375
Total future minimum lease payments	$	6,719

During the years ended December 31, 2012, 2011 and 2010, rent expense was $1.7 million, $1.1 million and $0.6 million, respectively.

Commitments—As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, Pacific Drilling had no material commitments other than commitments related to deepwater drillship construction purchase commitments discussed in Note 3.

Contingencies—The Company may be the subject of certain claims and lawsuits occurring in the normal course of business. No pending or known threatened claims, actions or proceedings against us are expected to have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

On November 9, 2010, Pacific Drilling entered into a drilling contract for the Pacific Bora with a subsidiary of Chevron Corporation (“Chevron”). Under the contract terms, Chevron will reimburse Pacific Drilling for up to $30 million in capital upgrades. At the end of the contract, Pacific Drilling is obligated to refund a portion of these costs. The amount of refund is dependent upon the timing of the expiration of the drilling contract. If the contract ends on the initial primary term of three years, Pacific Drilling will refund Chevron 50% of the capital upgrades cost. For each year the contract is extended beyond the initial primary term, the amount refunded is reduced by 10%. As of December 31, 2012 and 2011, Pacific Drilling has recorded a liability of $15.6 million and $4.0 million, respectively, for costs of upgrades incurred and billed to Chevron. If the contract is extended, Pacific Drilling will record the resulting gain contingency to reimbursable revenues in future periods.

We maintain loss of hire insurance that becomes effective 45 days after an accident or major equipment failure covered by hull and machinery insurance, resulting in a downtime event and extends for 180 days. In the third quarter 2011, the Pacific Scirocco underwent repairs and upgrades to ensure engine reliability, which was a covered event under our loss of hire policy that resulted in the $23.7 million and $18.5 million of loss of hire insurance recovery recognized for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011.