Later in the day, in extremely heavy winds and a rough sea, the barge refloated on the rising tide and was driven westwards a distance of three miles. According to eyewitnesses the vessel collided with numerous groins, slipways and other obstructions but miraculously remained intact and afloat. But the end of the day the barge had grounded on Margate west sands, within a few metres of the sea bathing pool.

With the vessel firmly aground holes were cut in the hull to prevent it refloating on the next tide. In spite of further heavy weather the barge remained in place and at the time of writing preparations were being made to strip it down prior to its removal.

There was some concern that the cylindrical legs, reported to weigh up to 3 tonnes each, might become a hazard to vessels in the area but all four have been recovered.

The 10m jack-up barge is owned by John Howard Marine and was working with contractors Norwest Holst for Southern Water. It is understood that the work was being carried out in preparation for the construction of a new sewage plant in the area.