Coast Guard searches for man overboard in Sitka Sound, Alaska

News Release

U.S. Coast Guard 17th District Alaska Contact: 17th District Public Affairs Office: (907) 487-5700 After Hours: (907) 723-5367 17th District online newsroom

Coast Guard searches for man overboard in Sitka Sound, Alaska

KODIAK, Alaska – A Coast Guard Air Station Sitka MH-60 Jayahwk aircrew is searching Friday for a 35-year-old crewman reported overboard from the 780-foot cruise ship Amsterdam in Sitka Sound, Alaska.

The Jayhawk aircrew arrived to Sitka Sound, off Biorka Island at 1 a.m., to begin the search. The subject was last seen on the cruise ship at 6 p.m., Thursday.

Sector Juneau watchstanders issued an urgent marine information broadcast and requested the launch of the Jayhawk aircrew.

Coast Guard Sector Juneau watchstanders received notification at 9 p.m., Thursday from the Amsterdam reporting the man missing after he did not show up for his shift, and the master was made aware of the missing man at 7:45 p.m. The Amsterdam crew made extensive searches of the vessel, and turned the vessel around toward its last known position to search the water but have since continued its voyage toward Victoria, British Columbia.

“We are prepared and equipped to conduct search patterns and provide search and rescue efforts for this man,” said Petty Officer 2nd Class Kyle Gee, a Coast Guard Sector Juneau watchstander. “Our primary concern is to locate him as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

 

Weather on scene was reported as 43 mph winds, heavy fog, seas 6-8 feet, a water temperature of 55 degrees and an air temperature of 62 degrees.

 

-USCG-