George Paitl News

Coast Guard Continues Spill Investigation

Investigators from the Coast Guard marine safety office here are continuing to look into what caused a Holland America cruise ship to spill partially treated wastewater into Gastineau Channel here August 17. The Juneau Harbormaster contacted the Coast Guard around 8 p.m. August 17 reporting that a brownish color substance discharged form the Ryndam. Coast Guard MSO Juneau investigators responded to the scene immediately and took samples of the discharge flowing from the Ryndam. Preliminary findings suggest that roughly 40,000 gallons of wastewater from sinks, showers and the sewage system transferring into the number six portside double bottom holding tank exceeded capacity, and subsequently discharged out a vent and into Alaska waters.