The cargo vessel Su Guannan 318, also reported as Soviet Union Suannan 318, sank in the Yangtze River Estuary off Chongming Island, China. The cargo vessel had run aground and suffered water ingress. With only part of the superstructure remaining above water, a rescue helicopter arrived on scene and hoisted 2 crewmen off the cargo vessel. No reports of injuries.
The 115 meter long, 1064 dwt ro-ro passenger ferry Dharma Kencana VIII capsized in the Flores Sea off East Nusa Tenngara Island, Indonesia. The Dharma Kencana VIII departed from Labuan Bajo with 121 passengers when it struck a reef and suffered hull damage. The ferry quickly flooded and began to sink. The Dharma Kencana VIII developed a heavy list to starboard before it capsized onto its side. All 121 passengers on board were evacuated by local authorities. No reports of injuries.
The 56 foot long fishing vessel Taplow sank near Grays Harbor, Washington. The fishing vessel sent out a distress call after the fishing vessel had sprung a leak in the engine room. The crew reported the engine room was nearly flooded and the Taplow’s pumps had failed.
The Coast Guard dispatched helicopters and vessels to the scene and were able to deliver a de-watering pump. Even with the new pump, the flooding could not be brought under control. The crew and rescuers abandoned the Taplow as no further efforts could be made to save the fishing vessel.
The Taplow sank in 300 feet of water. Reports state there was several hundred gallons of diesel fuel on board, but no pollution has been spotted.