The 182 meter long tanker Champion Ebony ran aground near Nunivak, Alaska. The tanker was headed with 5400 tons of oil and fuel products when it touch bottom. The crew was able to refloat the Champion Ebony and proceed into deeper water. No reports of injuries to the 24 crew, damage or pollution released.
On February 9, the 42 foot long fishing vessel Moonshadow and the 57 foot long fishing vessel Robert G. Johnston ran aground along the shoreline of Kupreanof Island, Alaska. The vessels had been at their winter anchorage when the anchor drifted allowing both vessels to run aground on a tidal flat. The vessels were visible during low tide, but became submerged during the rising tide. No crew was on board either vessel at the time of the incident. The Coast Guard has dispatched a team to inspect the area for pollution. Both fishing vessels belong to one owner and no details on salvage has been reported.
The 45 foot long motor vessel Challenger and Barge No. 1 sank in the Nushagak River near Kokwok, Alaska. The Challenger was towing the barge in a side tow when both vessels capsized and sank. The two crew on board were able to safely escape. The men were able to climb onto the overturn hull and never got wet. The men were later safely rescued by a passing boat. No reports of injuries. The barge was loaded with scrapped vehicles from New Stuyahok bound for Dillingham. Initial reports stated no pollution, but a later aerial survey spotted a sheen down river. The cause of the sinking was not yet determined, but strong winds were reported in the area.
