CG Monitoring LNG Vessel Repairs

The Coast Guard is monitoring and assisting a Liquefied Natural Gas tanker that temporarily lost propulsion about 45 miles east of Boston today.

The 920 ft tanker Suez Matthew, carrying 31 people and a full load of LNG from Trinidad to Boston, lost propulsion just before 12 a.m., Dec. 27.

Propulsion was restored aboard the Suez Matthew within the hour and the tankship executed a successful test of propulsion by 8:45 a.m. The Coast Guard Cutter Jefferson Island and the commercial tugs Liberty and Freedom are escorting the carrier to an anchorage in Broad Sound.

There, Coast Guard marine inspectors and investigators, along with the vessel’s classification society surveyor, will inspect the ship to determine why it lost propulsion. The tugs will also remain in the area to assist as needed.

The ship's crew is making hourly situation reports to Sector Boston. The Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba is enroute to the anchorage to assume on-scene command from the Jefferson Island.

"The Coast Guard and its port partners are taking steps to ensure the vessel, crew and cargo remain safe," said Cmdr. William Kelly, the acting commander of Sector Boston. "However, as a precaution, the Coast Guard will monitor the situation until I am satisfied all repairs are made and it can return to full international service."

Current weather is 12 to 15 knot winds with 2 ft seas.