Barge Defiant refloated off San Juan port entrance

The U.S. Coast Guard indicated that the refloating of the fuel barge Defiant occurred at about 2:22 a.m., shortly before high tide, after three tugboats were positioned and the pressurization of the vessel’s cargo tanks, empty spaces, and compartments was completed.

By THE STAR STAFF

The U.S. Coast Guard reported Wednesday that the barge Defiant was successfully refloated and removed from the shore near Castillo San Felipe del Morro and towed to Pier 16 in San Juan Bay.

“We want to thank our partner agencies, the Government of Puerto Rico, and all federal agencies that collaborated in this effort,” said Luis Rodríguez, Coast Guard Sector San Juan commander and port captain, in a written statement.

“By working together, each played a vital role in protecting the safety of the Port of San Juan’s maritime transportation system, safeguarding the marine environment, and ensuring the safety of all first responders,” he added.

The agency indicated that the refloating occurred at about 2:22 a.m., shortly before high tide, after three tugboats were positioned and the pressurization of the vessel’s cargo tanks, empty spaces, and compartments was completed.

According to official information, the tugboat Lobo Grande removed the barge from the rocks with the assistance of the incoming tide. Its condition, stability and buoyancy were then assessed before it was authorized to move to the dock.

A 500-yard safety zone was established during the transfer within the port. The Coast Guard reported that the Port of San Juan resumed normal operations and is open to maritime traffic.

“Removing the 265-foot barge from the mouth of San Juan Bay was a highly complex and sensitive operation,” said Coast Guard Lt. Cmdr. Ray López, who led the operation.