EXHIBIT 15

The Board of Directors and Shareholders

Tidewater Inc.

We are aware of the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements (Forms S-8 No. 33-63094, No. 33-38240, No. 333-32729, No. 333-47687 and No. 333-66054) of Tidewater Inc. of our report dated October 15, 2002 relating to the unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements of Tidewater Inc. that are included in its Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2002.

Pursuant to Rule 436(c) of the Securities Act of 1933, our report is not a part of the registration statements prepared or certified by accountants within the meaning of Section 7 or 11 of the Securities Act of 1933.

ERNST & YOUNG LLP

New Orleans, Louisiana

October 15, 2002