Stena rig crew safe after anchors break loose in North Sea storm

Offshore staff

ABERDEEN, UK — Staff onboard the semisubmersible drilling rig Stena Spey had to be airlifted by Coast Guard helicopters last weekend after four of the rig’s eight anchors were dislodged during stormy weather.

However, all 89 personnel are said to have been safely accounted for.

The rig was reportedly operating 146 miles (235 km) east of Aberdeen.

Some personnel were transferred either to platforms in the area or to a base on the Shetland Islands, with 44 crew members remaining on the rig.

The well that was being drilled is said to be secure. A tow line was attached from a towing vessel to the rig, which is said to be in a secure position, and two anchor handling vessels are at the location to conduct recovery operations.

10.24.2023