Thunder Bay

An ambitious, quick-witted engineer who believes offshore drilling will modernize Port Felicity. He relentlessly pursues the investor’s deadline, driving his crew with stubborn optimism. His vision of progress clashes with local fears, but his determination also inspires loyalty among his workers.

A brash, loyal engineer and shipmate of Steve who shares the Navy past and a relentless drive to realize the oil project. He falls for Francesca and must navigate loyalty to Steve with his own ambitions. He embodies courage and stubborn practicality in the face of danger.

The fisherman's daughter who distrusts outsiders at first, guarding her town’s traditions. She grows to understand the oilmen’s intentions and eventually finds common ground with Steve, becoming entwined with the town’s fate. Her skepticism reflects the community’s fear of change.

Younger sister of Stella, betrothed to Philippe Bayard; she falls for Johnny Gambi, challenging family arrangements and social expectations. Her loyalty to love complicates the town's dynamics and highlights the tension between tradition and desire.

Francesca's childhood betrothed, whose actions fuel the conflict against the oilmen. He incites Teche to destroy the rig and engages in a violent physical altercation with Gambi, embodying old-world rivalries and protective family bonds.

The port owner who calls the oilmen foreigners and acts as a bridge between the town and the rig, sometimes helping the oilmen and sometimes fanning the mob. He values the town’s welfare but fears the loss of traditional livelihood.

Owner of the Rigaud family and Francesca's father; a practical man who wants to preserve the town’s status but must confront the economic opportunities the oil project presents. He embodies parental authority and caution.

Kermit MacDonough's secretary and the voice of corporate caution. He warns about the risk of penalties if drilling stalls, pulling the project back toward reality and funding constraints.

A local fisherman connected to the Chighizola clan who embodies the tension between the sea’s old order and the new oil-driven economy. He participates in the town’s conflicts and eventual acceptance of change.