Cape Cross crew from Cordova has been rescued by a Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter. Sector Anchorage command center received a VHF radio call at 11:15 a.m. from the captain of the fishing vessel Josie reporting that the Cape Cross had gone aground with seven crewmen aboard. The crew of the Josie safely retrieved all seven crewmembers.
According to the Coast Guard the Cape Cross take on water and listing 30-degrees to the port side. The helicopter crew arrived on scene with the Cape Cross at 1:15 p.m. and delivered two dewatering pumps to the crews of the Cape Cross and the Josie. The Coast Guard official informed that the vessel was having 3,000 gallons of diesel fuel aboard, light sheening has been reported in the area. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Valdez is coordinating the response to minimize any potential pollution to the area.
Both the Windbreaker and the Chevelle successfully refloated with the tide however, the Chevelle sustained a three inch hole in the vessel. The Arcola was completely submerged and sank off of Swanson Harbor. The Coast Guard worked with all vessel crews to minimize any potential environmental threat from the more than 5,000 gallons aboard the three vessels
In all three cases there were no injuries or pollution reported. The Coast GUrad said that mariners are responsible for knowing where they are navigating at all times. They encourage all mariners to practice safe boating techniques, including using maritime charts and navigation equipment and to maintain an alert watch to ensure safe navigation in Alaska’s diverse waterways.
