OFFSHORE OIL BASINS AND FAULT TRAPS Offshore oil basins are large sedimentary basins located beneath the ocean floor. These basins contain rich deposits of oil and gas formed from ancient marine organisms that were buried and compressed over millions of years. Using advanced seismic surveys and offshore drilling technology, geologists explore and produce hydrocarbons from these deep marine environments. Offshore basins are vital to the world’s energy supply and are often found along passive cont