Posted on 08/10/2006 10:59:45 AM PDT by skeptoid
The Cougar Ace is shown between Wide Bay and Ider Point on the northern side of Hog Island as it is towed Tuesday into Unalaska Bay. The ship, owned by Tokyo-based Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, had been listing since problems arose during a required open-sea transfer of ballast water on July 23, approximately 230 miles south of Adak. Company officials believe the ship rolled while the crew was adjusting the ballast tank, which regulates the ship's weight and balance. The ship's 23 crew members were hoisted to safety. The only injury was a broken ankle.
I just read a post that explains WHY this happened. From this thread, post 17:
' ...the crew was attempting to remove ballast water, a practice required under international maritime rules to prevent marine organisms picked up at one port from being dumped with the ballast in another part of the world. He said alien organisms can cause significant damage in their new habitat, so the water is released on the high seas. Beuerman said too much water was probably discharged when the crew was adjusting the ballast.'
Note: 'Ider Point' should be 'Eider Point'.
looks like it could still be salvaged.. any word about the cars?
Here's a link with some good pictures:
http://www.dec.state.ak.us/spar/perp/response/sum_fy07/060728201/060728201_ph_index.htm
Salvage man dies aboard Cougar Ace
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/1675469/posts
BTW: Does anyone know if Titan Salvage uses LLoyds Open Form? If so, did they require that it be signed for this salvage operation?
Its a shame anyone had to die. Its still an interesting story to follow, especially since it didn't sink in some of the deepest ocean on Earth.
Thanks.
LOL! Just heard on Portland radio, the vehicles will be sold as used cars, with a new car warranty.
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