Disabled Fishing Vessel Towed 160 Miles by US Coast Guard Through Blizzard

The USCGC Alex Haley (WMEC-39) towed a damaged fishing vessel more than 160 miles to Adak, Alaska, after it lost propulsion 575 miles southwest of Dutch Harbor. The crew of the US Coast Guard cutter successfully ensured the safety of the eight people on board the stricken vessel, Aleutian Islands #1.

The initial notification of the vessel’s distress came from the captain of Aleutian Islands #1, reporting a propulsion failure. The Alex Haley was recalled from patrol to provide assistance, transiting 575 miles in the Bering Sea to reach the stricken ship. Despite harsh conditions, the crew successfully towed the fishing vessel to Adak.

The tow operation was conducted in difficult conditions, with winds of 30-40 mph, swells of 10-15 feet, and cold temperatures. The fishing vessel was ultimately towed to Adak by the Alex Haley, and then handed over to another vessel for further assistance. The cutter, awarded the prestigious 2023 Captain Hopley Yeaton Cutter of the Year Award, is dedicated to supporting Alaska’s fishermen and conducting search and rescue operations throughout the region.

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