Foss tug tows disabled Russian vessel to safety

OCTOBER 20, 2014 —  Foss Maritime reported yesterday that its ocean-going tug, the Barbara Foss, was towing the 9,405 dwt Russian cargo vessel, Simushir, which lost power late Thursday night off the west coast of Haida Gwaii (formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands).

The Barbara Foss was  traveling at 5.5 knots and was expected to arrive at the Port of Prince Rupert, B.C. with the Simushir in tow at approximately 10:00 p.m. Pacific Time Sunday, where two assist tugs and a pilot would be on hand to help the ship dock.

“We’ve been working very closely with the Canadian Coast Guard and the Joint Rescue Coordination Center to successfully manage this situation,” said Gary Faber, Senior Vice President of Foss Maritime. “At this point, the ship is riding well behind the tug, and the weather and sea conditions are not posing concerns. We expect a steady and uneventful voyage to Prince Rupert.”

The vessel is owned by Russia’s Sakhalin Shipping Company and was en route from Everett, WA, to Russia when it lost power.