Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig and Museum | Galveston

The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum, located in Galveston, Texas, offers a fascinating and educational look into the offshore drilling industry, providing visitors with the chance to explore a real, retired jack-up drilling rig. The museum brings the history and technology of offshore oil exploration to life, making it a unique destination for those interested in industrial history and the energy sector.

History of the Rig

The Ocean Star drilling rig was built in 1969 and was primarily used in the Gulf of Mexico for offshore oil and gas drilling. It had a highly successful operational life, drilling over 200 wells. After being retired in 1984, it was acquired and transformed into a museum in 1995. The rig opened to the public in 1997 as part of an effort to educate people about offshore drilling technology and its impact on both the energy industry and the environment.

The Museum's Exhibits

The museum spans three floors, each offering different interactive exhibits and displays:

First Floor: Focuses on the basics of offshore drilling, including the history of oil exploration, early rigs, and the evolution of the technology used in the industry. Visitors can see various pieces of equipment that were once used in drilling operations.

Second Floor: This floor delves deeper into the science behind offshore drilling, highlighting the complex processes involved in extracting oil from beneath the sea. The exhibits cover topics like seismic exploration, drilling operations, and the challenges of working in harsh offshore environments.

Third Floor: Focuses on the environmental and safety aspects of offshore drilling. It includes information about the risks involved in offshore drilling and the safety measures taken to prevent accidents. The museum also addresses the impact of oil extraction on the environment and efforts to minimize damage to marine ecosystems.

Interactive components allow visitors to engage with the material and learn about how offshore drilling affects the economy, the environment, and the people who work in the energy sector.

Special Features

Drilling Simulator: One of the museum’s most popular features is the drilling simulator, which gives visitors the chance to experience what it’s like to operate an offshore rig. It’s an engaging way for visitors to gain insight into the complexities of drilling operations.

Hands-On Exhibits: Various hands-on displays allow visitors to understand the technical details of the drilling process, from how oil is extracted to how equipment is maintained and operated. These exhibits make the complex technology accessible to people of all ages.

Educational Programs

The Ocean Star Museum is committed to educating the public, especially students, about the offshore drilling industry. The museum offers a range of educational programs, including guided tours, field trips, and special events for schools and other groups. These programs cover various aspects of the energy industry and provide an opportunity for visitors to engage directly with experts in the field.

Tours & Group Visits

Self-Guided Tours: Visitors can take self-guided tours, which are supplemented by multimedia exhibits and optional audio guides available in multiple languages (English, Spanish, French).

Guided Tours: For a deeper experience, guided tours are available by appointment. These tours are led by knowledgeable staff who provide detailed explanations and answer questions about the museum’s exhibits and the rig’s history.

Group Rates: The museum offers discounted rates for groups, including school and senior groups. Groups of 25 or more may also reserve audio guides in advance. This makes the museum a popular destination for educational field trips.

Family-Friendly Programs

The Ocean Star Museum is a family-friendly destination, offering activities tailored to children and young adults. The museum holds Family Day events on the second Saturday of each month, where children can participate in hands-on activities and demonstrations related to offshore drilling. On these days, admission is free for children under 18 when accompanied by a paying adult.

Hours & Admission

Hours: The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The last ticket is sold at 4:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Admission Fees:

Adults: $12

Seniors (55+): $10

Military: $10

Youth (7–18): $8

Children under 6: Free

Family Package (2 adults + up to 4 youth): $35

Parking & Access

Parking: Paid parking is available in nearby lots and along the street, with rates ranging from $3 to $10. The museum is located in the Strand district of Galveston, where parking can sometimes be limited.

Access: The museum is easily accessible via a pedestrian bridge that connects the rig to the public pier. This bridge eliminates the need for boat transport, which makes it a convenient visit for those traveling by foot or car.

Location

Address: 2002 Wharf Rd, Galveston, TX 77550. It is located right on the water, offering views of the Gulf of Mexico and the surrounding port area.

Impact of the Museum

The Ocean Star Offshore Drilling Rig & Museum plays an important role in raising awareness about the offshore drilling industry, offering insight into the history, technology, and impact of oil exploration on our daily lives. It provides a unique opportunity to understand both the benefits and challenges of offshore oil drilling, as well as the advancements made in safety and environmental protection over the years.