On February 16, the 51 foot long tug Emily Anne sank in Massachusetts Bay off Deer Island, Massachusetts. The tug had suddenly sprung a leak and suffered uncontrolled water ingress. The crew was able to send out a distress call before the three men abandoned ship and the tug sank. A nearby pilot boat came to their aid and rescued them. No reports of injuries. The Emily Anne was reported to be sunk in 40 feet of water. The Coast Guard has dispatched a team to monitor the site.
The 20 meter long tug Phoenix sank at the Volkerak Lock in Willemstad, Netherlands. The Phoenix had collided with the tanker-barge Imke Deymann resulting in hull damage and water ingress on the Phoenix. The tug partially sank leaving only part of its wheelhouse above water. All five crew on the Phoenix were able to escape in time. No reports of injuries. The sunken tug blocked traffic at the lock and authorities placed booms around the vessel to prevent possible pollution released. The following day a crane was brought to the scene to raise the Phoenix.
The 22 ton tugboat 97 Samyoung sank off Busan, South Korea near Dudo Island. The 97 Samyoung was towing another vessel when its towing cable snapped and slapped against the side of the tug’s hull causing the vessel to later sink. The two crew on board were knocked into the water and were later found unconscious. The men were taken to hospital, but reported that they had perished. Authorities have placed booms around the sunken tug to contain any pollution released. Reports state an investigation has been launched about the incident.