Aurora Australis

Aurora Australis

Aurora Australis

The 95 meter long, 3911 dwt research vessel Aurora Australis ran aground in Horsehoe Harbour near Mawson Station, Antarctica. The Aurora Australis was moored in the harbour when a blizzard with strong winds reaching over 130km an hour cause the vessel to break its mooring lines. Pushed by the wind, the research vessel drifted aground. No reports of injuries to the 67 persons on board. Reports state the Aurora Australis was undamaged and no water ingress reported. No reports on when or if the research vessel will be salvaged.

Saputi

Saputi

Saputi
Photo: JRCC Halifax

On January 21, the 220 foot long fishing vessel Saputi sustained hull damage while fishing for turbot in the Davis Strait between Canada and Greenland. The trawler had struck ice which cut into the hull causing water ingress. The crew requested assistance with both Danish and Canadian authorities responding.  A Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker and an fixed aircraft was dispatched while the Danish Navy directed a vessel to the area. The aircraft arrived first on the following day and was able to drop four dewatering pumps to the Saputi.  The Danish warship arrived on scene a short time later delivering additional pumps and technicians.  The Saputi proceeded towards Nuuk, Greenland escorted by the Danish warship Knud Rasmussen.  No reports of injuries to the 30 crew on board. Reports stated that the catch of turbot on board the Saputi may have been lost resulting in an estimated loss of $1 million dollars (CA).

 

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Miss Kate

Miss Kate

Miss Kate
Photo: pressofatlanticcity.com

On February 20, the 77 foot long tugboat Miss Kate along with its 135 foot long barge in tow ran aground in Atlantic Ocean near Absecon Inlet on Brigantine Beach, New Jersey. The tug had lost power and drifted ashore near the inlet. No reports of injuries. The Coast Guard was notified and arrived on scene to monitor the situation. The Miss Kate and barge were later pulled off the beach and refloated a few days later. No reports of damage or pollution released.  Both vessels were en route to Great Egg Harbor Inlet.