Crew Reviews, Ratings & Info for Algoma-Niagara

On January 23, 2026, the bulk carrier 'Algoma Niagara' found itself immobilized in the icy waters of the Detroit River. Thanks to the timely intervention of the Canadian icebreaker 'Judy LaMarsh' (IMO: 9560120), the vessel was able to resume its course towards Erie, Pennsylvania, successfully reaching the port on January 24. In a related incident, the 'Algoma Intrepid' (IMO: 9773387) also encountered difficulties as it became stranded in Lake Michigan shortly after departing from Escanaba, Michigan, en route to Goderich, Ontario. The American tug 'Jimmy L' (MMSI: 368273060) and the US Coast Guard's 'Mobile Bay' (IMO: 8635162) provided essential assistance in the rescue operations.

On June 17, 2019, the Canadian shipping channel of the Detroit River faced a significant disruption when the bulk carrier "Algoma Niagara," loaded with 25,000 tons of gravel, broke free from its moorings. The incident occurred around 4 a.m. when three of the vessel's mooring lines snapped, causing the ship's bow to swing 90 degrees into the shipping channel, while its stern remained tethered to the dock in Sandwich Town. The vessel's captain promptly dropped anchor to stabilize the ship near the Kinder Morgan pipeline, which transports ethane beneath the river; fortunately, the pipeline remained undamaged. In an abundance of caution, Kinder Morgan sealed and purged the line to ensure safety. The vessel's movement created a blockage in the shipping channel, leading to the injury of one crew member. The captain reported the incident to Transport Canada’s Ontario office in Sarnia, which subsequently informed the Windsor Port Authority. As a safety measure to avoid potential collisions, the port authority closed the Canadian side of the channel for approximately 30 hours. Throughout this period, they collaborated with the U.S. Coast Guard to redirect ships to the American side of the river. On June 18, two tugboats were dispatched to help secure the "Algoma Niagara" in place while crews worked to cut the anchor's chain and lower it to the riverbed. The Algoma Central Corporation planned to remove the anchor and chain promptly. After successfully maneuvering the ship back to its berth along Windsor’s shore near Prospect Avenue, the unloading of gravel commenced. With the shipping channel now clear, the Windsor Port Authority reopened the Canadian side. Investigations into the incident by Transport Canada representatives are expected to take several days. The "Algoma Niagara" departed from Detroit on June 19 at 5:20 a.m., arriving at its next port in Sarnia by 11:20 a.m.

Today, the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation celebrated the commencement of its landmark 60th navigation season, highlighted by the passage of the modern vessel Algoma Niagara through Lock 3 on the Welland Canal. Featuring the latest advancements in maritime technology, ships like the Algoma Niagara are vital to the supply chain that strengthens the competitiveness of industries across North America. The Great Lakes and Seaway System play a crucial role in supporting over 227,000 jobs linked to the transportation of cargo throughout the region. For further details, visit https://www.marinelink.com/news/navigation-lawrence435762.