DS Seacrest (Scanqueen)

DS Seacrest (Scanqueen)

The DS Seacrest, also known as Scanqueen, is a significant shipwreck in the Gulf of Thailand, remembered for its tragic sinking during Typhoon Gay in 1989. This blog post delves into the history of the Seacrest, the disaster’s aftermath, and how divers can explore this underwater relic today. We will also highlight related diving courses and expeditions offered by Technical Diving Thailand.

History and Specifications of the DS Seacrest

The DS Seacrest was a substantial drillship used for oil drilling operations. It was 110 meters long, with a breadth of 20 meters and a draught of 6 meters. The ship, operated by UNOCAL, was one of the largest vessels to operate in the Gulf of Thailand. The vessel was known for its robust construction, which made it suitable for deep-sea drilling activities. However, the installation of a top drive unit on its derrick, without proper compensation for stability, played a crucial role in its tragic end.

The Fateful Day: Typhoon Gay

On November 3, 1989, Typhoon Gay struck the Gulf of Thailand with unprecedented force. The Seacrest, heavily loaded with 200 tons of drill pipe in its derrick and still connected to the wellhead, was unable to withstand the storm. Standard procedure would have been to lay down the pipe, but this was not done, leading to the ship’s instability and eventual capsizing. The disaster resulted in the deaths of 91 rig workers, making it one of the most devastating oil rig accidents in history. The incident highlighted the catastrophic impact of neglecting safety protocols in the face of natural disasters​.

Aftermath and Legal Battles

The Seacrest did not sink immediately; it remained afloat for several days, complicating rescue operations due to the severe weather and difficulty in locating the vessel. Only two survivors were found after spending an extended time in the water. The disaster led to significant legal proceedings, with families of the deceased pursuing compensation from UNOCAL. However, the company faced bankruptcy, and many families struggled to receive adequate compensation. The tragedy also spurred discussions on the need for stricter safety regulations and better preparedness for offshore drilling operations​  (Nong Fern Daddy)​.

Personal Accounts and Reflections

The disaster left a deep impact on those involved and their families. Gunnar Gustafsson, a marine engineer, recounted his concerns about the vessel’s stability before the disaster. He and the captain had protested against the top drive unit installation, which was done without appropriate safety measures. Despite their warnings, the installation proceeded, contributing to the vessel’s instability. These personal accounts underscore the importance of listening to experienced crew members and prioritizing safety over operational efficiency​ (Nong Fern Daddy)​.

A detailed account from a survivor’s perspective reveals how the top drive installation led to a compromised stability. The ship’s inability to handle Typhoon Gay resulted in a catastrophic capsizing. Despite immediate rescue efforts, only two survivors were rescued from the turbulent waters. The incident left a deep scar on the community, with many families fighting prolonged legal battles for compensation​ (Nong Fern Daddy)​.

Diving the Seacrest Wreck

Today, the wreck of the Seacrest lies at a depth of approximately 70 meters, making it accessible primarily to technical divers using trimix. The site is a haunting yet fascinating location, with the ship’s structure largely intact and overgrown with marine life. Divers can explore various sections of the wreck, including the derrick and wellhead, which played critical roles in the disaster. This dive site offers a somber reminder of the tragedy and a unique opportunity to witness a piece of maritime history up close​​.

Technical Diving Courses and Expeditions

For those interested in diving the Seacrest wreck, Technical Diving Thailand provides specialized courses and expeditions. Our advanced technical diving courses are designed to equip divers with the skills needed to safely explore deep wrecks like the Seacrest. Our expeditions offer guided dives to the wreck, where divers can gain a deeper understanding of the ship’s history and the events leading to its sinking.

Courses We Offer:

  • Advanced Wreck Diving: Learn advanced techniques for navigating and exploring shipwrecks at greater depths.
  • Trimix Diving: Essential for dives deeper than 60 meters, our trimix courses prepare divers to handle the complexities of mixed gas diving.

Preserving the Legacy

The DS Seacrest tragedy continues to resonate within the diving community and among the families of those who perished. Efforts to preserve the memory of this disaster are ongoing, with websites and memorials dedicated to honoring those lost. Diving the Seacrest not only offers a unique adventure but also serves as a way to pay respects to the victims and ensure that the lessons from this tragedy are remembered. Personal stories from the families of those lost, as well as divers who have explored the wreck, keep the memory alive and highlight the human side of this maritime disaster

Additional Resources and Historical Context

For more detailed information about the DS Seacrest and its tragic history, you can explore various online resources. The Wikipedia page on the Drillship Seacrest offers a concise overview of the disaster and its aftermath. Additionally, the article on Nongferndaddy provides extensive details about the Seacrest’s history, the events leading to its sinking, and personal reflections from those affected by the tragedy.

Conclusion

The DS Seacrest, or Scanqueen, is more than just a shipwreck; it is a poignant reminder of the risks associated with offshore drilling and the critical importance of safety measures. For technical divers, it provides a unique and meaningful dive experience. By participating in expeditions and courses offered by Technical Diving Thailand, divers can explore this historic site while gaining valuable skills and insights.

For more information on diving the Seacrest wreck and our technical diving courses, visit Technical Diving Thailand. By exploring this underwater relic, divers not only engage in a thrilling adventure but also contribute to preserving the memory of those who lost their lives in this maritime tragedy.

Latest Posts

Exploring the Pak1 Wreck: An Entry-Level Expedition
Trip Reports

Exploring the Pak1 Wreck: An Entry-Level Expedition

Join us as we explore the Pak1 wreck, a perfect site for entry-level technical diving at depths ranging from 34 to 42 meters. This expedition not only uncovered the mysteries of this well-preserved wreck but also served as a training ground for divers completing their ART and Trimix certifications. With diverse equipment setups and a dynamic team, this wreck dive provided both a thrilling experience and a valuable learning opportunity. Read more about our journey into the depths!

Read More »
SS-371 USS Lagarto at see. Colorized
Wreck Sites

USS Lagarto (SS-371)

The USS Lagarto, a Balao-class submarine lost during World War II, rests in the Gulf of Thailand, offering a rare and emotional dive for experienced technical divers. Discovered in 2005, this historic wreck lies at a depth of approximately 70 meters, making it accessible only to those with advanced training in deep wreck diving and decompression procedures.

The submarine’s final resting place is a solemn reminder of the 86 brave men who were lost with her. Despite the passage of time, the Lagarto is remarkably well-preserved, with much of the vessel’s structure still intact. Divers exploring the wreck can witness the remarkable craftsmanship of the submarine, as well as the abundant marine life that has claimed it as a sanctuary.

The USS Lagarto is more than just a dive; it’s a profound journey into the past, combining history, adventure, and remembrance.

Read More »
FX CCR review
Equipment

IQSub FX CCR Review – Chest Mount Rebreather

The FX CCR (Closed Circuit Rebreather) is a robust and highly versatile unit designed for technical divers who push the limits of deep, extended-range exploration. With a focus on reliability and performance, the FX CCR boasts an intuitive control system, providing seamless gas management, oxygen monitoring, and user-friendly displays that make critical data easily accessible.

What sets the FX CCR apart is its modularity, allowing divers to customize the unit based on their specific needs. From integrated bailout options to customizable diluent and oxygen management, the FX CCR adapts to various diving conditions, ensuring maximum efficiency and safety.

During extensive testing in deep dives, the FX CCR performed exceptionally well, maintaining excellent loop control and offering a smooth transition between gas mixes. The unit’s impressive battery life and durable construction make it a top choice for divers venturing into extreme environments.

For technical divers seeking reliability and adaptability, the FX CCR proves to be a game-changer.

Read More »

1111/41 Ladprao 94
10310 Bangkok
Thailand

Facebook Instagram Envelope

Web Design by BRO Media