Shell’s Noble Discoverer drill rig is docked in Unalaska and the Kulluk is on its way after a series of delays.
Popular Mechanics reports that detaching the Kulluk from its mooring system and getting it under tow was delayed. The drilling season ended last week, but because of deteriorating weather conditions in the Beaufort Sea, the company hadn’t been able to refuel the Aiviq – an icebreaking tug that will tow the Kulluk – and below-zero conditions were keeping helicopters grounded.
The Kulluk will dock in Unalaska this winter. Shell spokesperson Curtis Smith says it’s not yet clear where the Noble Discoverer will tie up.
