The 738-foot bulk carrier Pan Viva remains anchored just off the coast of Unalaska, Alaska, as it weathers a severe storm.
The U.S. Coast Guard swiftly responded to the distress call on Saturday, initiating a multi-agency effort to ensure the safety of the crew and prevent a potential environmental disaster.
The Panama-flagged vessel, carrying 21 crew members, found itself in distress 2.3 miles northeast of Unalaska, facing winds up to 58 knots and towering seas reaching 29 feet. Despite the challenging conditions, the Pan Viva managed to anchor and maintain stability, alleviating initial concerns of running aground.
“We are working closely with state and local partners and the Pan Viva to ensure the safety of the mariners and protect the marine environment,” the Coast Guard said.
A Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew previously evacuated four crew members, transporting them safely to Dutch Harbor. The Coast Guard Cutter Stratton has remained on standby in Udegak Pass, ready to provide additional assistance if required.
On Sunday, a tug was underway to meet the vessel and discuss the potential for getting underway.
The incident comes as the National Weather Service’s Ocean Prediction Center has been tracking a massive, intense low-pressure system over the Gulf of Alaska, generating waves exceeding 30 feet in height and creating widespread marine hazards across the region.
As of the latest update, the Pan Viva has reported no mechanical failures or environmental impacts.
“Pan Viva remains at anchor. Weather is anticipated to subside [on Monday] and Pan Viva will assess weighing anchor. USCG and partner agencies are still staged to respond if needed,” the Coast Guard said late Sunday night.
The vessel, en route from Dandong, China to Kalama, Washington, is expected to reassess its situation as weather conditions are anticipated to improve.
The Coast Guard and partner agencies continue to monitor the situation closely, maintaining constant communication with the vessel and promising regular updates as the situation evolves.
Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.
Join the 108,881 members that receive our newsletter.
Have a news tip? Let us know.
Yemen's Houthis will not "dial down" their action against Israeli shipping in the Red Sea in response to U.S. military pressure or appeals from the group's allies such as Iran, the Yemeni militant group's foreign minister said.
Crowley Maritime Corporation raised the U.S. flag today on the LNG carrier American Energy, marking a significant milestone as the first domestic vessel to transport U.S.-sourced liquefied natural gas to...
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has secured a legal victory after the Gladstone Magistrates Court fined Universal Shipping Alliance Ltd AUD $63,000 for failing to comply with a safety...
Maritime and offshore news trusted by our 108,881 members delivered daily straight to your inbox.
Essential news coupled with the finest maritime content sourced from across the globe.
Sign Up
Join The Club
