Drillship Breaks Moorings and Collides with Bulk Carrier in Pascagoula

A drillship broke free from its moorings in strong winds Saturday and collided with a moored bulk carrier near the VT Halter shipyard and Chevron docks in Pascagoula, Mississippi.

U.S. Coast Guard Sector Mobile watchstanders received a report from the National Response Center at approximately 1:30 a.m. of a collision between two vessels. The Valaris DS 16, a 752-foot drillship, reportedly broke free of its moorings due to high winds and collided with the bulk carrier Akti. 

The drillship was reported have approximately 580,000 gallons of diesel onboard and anchored while remained up against the Akti, held in place by three tug vessels. 

AIS data shows the vessels have been seperated.

Both the drillship and bulk carrier were reported to have minor damage, along with some damage to the pier. There have been no reports of injuries or pollution.

The ship channel had previously been closed due to weather.