We've had a bit of excitement - an oil rig was run aground just off our beach. We've enjoyed a birds-eye view of the action from the Boardwalk here at Gulf Waters - and it's created quite a stir!
The Coast Guard is monitoring the rig to prevent it from sinking.
Crew members of the tug Vinton Crosby radioed the Coast Guard at about 3 a.m. reporting the jack-up rig Dolphin III, which they were towing, was listing to one side and in danger of sinking or tipping over. Around 6 a.m. the tug crew was able to move the rig into shallow water, where it remains. There were no injuries to the crew, but a Coast Guard rescue boat crew was dispatched from Station Port Aransas to investigate and were forced to return because of strong wind and waves. A Coast Guard helicopter crew was sent after sunrise and they were able to monitor the rig and ensure all personnel were safe.
The rig crew reported that a generator powering the de-watering pumps had run out of fuel and the pumps had stopped running. They continue to try to re-float it.
Robert, our neighbor, thinks there's a job opening for a fuel attendant!
To view a few more shots of the rig click here.
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