Sinking of Five Star Highlights Fishing Vessel Safety
The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) released its investigation report (M14P0121) into the June 12, 2014, capsizing and sinking of the fishing vessel Five Star in Johnstone Strait, British Columbia. The Five Star was on its way back to Kelsey Bay, British Columbia, after a three-day crab-fishing voyage, with the master and one crew member aboard. The vessel was carrying approximately 1,250 kg of crabs in 22 holding cages stowed on the deck. While underway, approximately one third of the catch was transferred to a large empty tote positioned on the centerline of the deck and secured to port and starboard of the vessel. Later in the voyage, the vessel encountered increased winds and one-meter waves affecting the vessel on its stern quarters.
Kvichak Delivers 50’ Pilot Boat in Alaska
Kvichak Marine Industries, Inc. of Seattle, Wash., recently delivered the P/V Bering, a 50’ x 15.5’ pilot vessel to the Southwest Alaska Pilots Association (SWAPA). Bering will operate in the coastal areas of South Central Alaska. After acceptance of the Bering, the SWAPA crew and a Kvichak technician departed Seattle and began transiting north to Valdez, Alaska. The Bering’s delivery encompassed 1350 nautical miles averaging 25 knots over five days (53.9 hours run time on the engines). Weather conditions were generally favorable, however Johnstone Strait in B.C.