Galveston Bay – Shipwreck Log

The 33 meter long tugboat Peter F. Gellatly and its barge ran aground at the entrance to Galveston Bay off East Beach on Galveston Island, Texas. The Peter F. Gellatly had dropped anchor offshore with its unladen barge while awaiting a passing storm, the remnant of Hurricane Patricia. Winds from the storm with gusts reaching 40 mph caused pushed the vessels back towards the shoreline. The anchors on the Peter F. Gellatly were unable to keep the vessels from running aground on the beach. No reports of injuries to the 6 crew on board, damage or pollution released. Reports state salvage operations will begin when weather permits.

SN Federica

April 2, 2015 Paul Hancock

On March 31, the 228 meter long tanker SN Federica ran aground off Galveston Bay, Texas. The SN Federica was proceeding with 17 million gallons of crude oil when it ran aground off Galveston. The tanker sustained damage to the forepeak and ballast tanks, but did not suffer water ingress. The Coast Guard dispatched a response team from Texas City. The Coast Guard found no injuries and no pollution released. The SN Federica was refloated later the same day and proceeded to an anchorage. The vessel has been detained until an underwater survey of the hull can be completed.