Cargo Ship Loses Propulsion in SF Bay

The U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Francisco received notification from the Motor Vessel WILLIAMSBURG BRIDGE through the Vessel Traffic Service that the vessel lost propulsion while transiting through San Francisco Bay just before 4:30 p.m. yesterday (February 14) afternoon. The vessel immediately took proper precautionary measures by safely anchoring within the shipping channel in less than five minutes. The Coast Guard, San Francisco Police Department Marine unit and two tug boats safely escorted the vessel, which was able to restart its main propulsion engine, to Anchorage Nine where the vessel is currently anchored. All appropriate notifications were made in a timely and proper manner. At no time was the vessel located outside of the normal shipping traffic lanes, nor did the vessel pose any hazard to other vessels or the shoreline.

"The Coast Guard will not permit the vessel to maneuver within San Francisco Bay until we are satisfied all necessary precautions are taken to ensure a safe transit", said Captain Paul M. Gugg, Sector San Francisco Commander.

Coast Guard Investigators and Class Society Surveyors are working to determine what caused the loss of propulsion yesterday and what repairs need to be made prior to the vessel moving to berth to offload cargo. The Coast Guard is working with the San Francisco Bar Pilots Association to determine the best plan of action for shifting the vessel from anchorage to berth.