FINAL: Tug transits to Ketchikan after grounding near Sumner Strait, Alaska

united states coast guard

Press Release

March 5, 2017
U.S. Coast Guard 17th District Alaska
Contact: Petty Officer 3rd Class Lauren Steenson
(907) 321-4505

FINAL: Tug transits to Ketchikan after grounding near Sumner Strait, Alaska

JUNEAU, Alaska — Commercial tugs are towing the tug Ocean Eagle to Ketchikan for repairs, Sunday, following its grounding at Mariposa Reef in Sumner Strait, Thursday.

The Ocean Eagle's barge was towed to Sitka where a Marine Inspector is conducting additional damage assessments before the barge continues its planned voyage.

Brusco Tug & Barge, the owner of Ocean Eagle, contracted Alaska Commercial Divers to conduct underwater hull surveys of both the tug and barge in Alvin Cove after the grounding. Temporary repairs were made by the divers to cracks in the tug's hull. Minor damage was noted on the barge. Transit plans for both vessels were submitted and approved by the federal on scene coordinator from Coast Guard Sector Juneau and the state on-scene coordinator from the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation.

Minor oil sheening was observed upon the initial grounding. No additional pollution has been reported.

"The plans for towing the tug to Ketchikan and the barge to Sitka were thoroughly reviewed," said Capt. Shannan Greene, federal on-scene coordinator, Sector Juneau. "Appropriate measures are in place to keep all vessels involved safe and protect the environment. I appreciate the cooperation and responsiveness of the tug's owner."

Weather on scene is 20-knot winds from the north, four-foot seas, and 10 miles of visibility.