Donjon-SMIT, LLC, An OPA-90 Alliance, performed a salvage operation on the Hurricane Katrina ravaged Mississippi River in New Orleans, LA. The Chios Beauty, a bulk carrier, ran hard aground at Mile Marker 93.2 while in ballast. The vessel grounded on August 29 after breaking free from the Praline Dock as a result of hurricane force winds. The vessel was reported to be intact with a total of 21 crewmembers and one passenger aboard at the time according to the U.S. Coast Guard. During an initial refloating effort, a local pilot boarded the casualty and attempted to pull the Chios Beauty afloat with five tugs, but was unsuccessful. Owners then quickly contracted Donjon-SMIT to respond.