Cargo Ship ‘Pan Viva’ Weighs Anchor After Weathering Fierce Alaskan Storm

The cargo ship Pan Viva has successfully weathered a severe storm off the Alaskan coast and resumed its voyage, averting a potential environmental disaster and alleviating concerns of a possible grounding off Unalaska, Alaska.

The U.S. Coast Guard confirmed on Tuesday that the vessel has weighed anchor and been cleared to return to sea.

The Panama-flagged Pan Viva, carrying 21 crew members, found itself in peril 2.3 miles northeast of Unalaska on Saturday, October 12th. Battling fierce winds of up to 58 knots and towering seas over 20 feet, the ship managed to anchor and maintain stability.

The incident unfolded against the backdrop of a massive low-pressure system over the Gulf of Alaska, which generated waves exceeding 30 feet and created widespread marine hazards. Despite these challenging conditions, the Pan Viva reported no mechanical failures and remained stable throughout the ordeal.

In a precautionary measure, a Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew evacuated four crew members to Dutch Harbor. The Coast Guard Cutter Stratton and a commercial tug remained on standby in Udegak Pass, ready to provide additional assistance if needed.

AIS data shows that the Pan Viva was moved to a temporary anchorage on Monday night before getting underway Tuesday morning. The vessel, which was en route from Dandong, China to Kalama, Washington, is now proceeding to its next port of call.

Editorial Standards · Corrections · About gCaptain

Subscribe for Daily Maritime Insights

Sign up for gCaptain’s newsletter and never miss an update

— trusted by our 105,332 members