The Miki-Hana: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On May 19, 2010, the tugboat Miki Hana, identified by IMO number 7031163, successfully regained control of a 330-foot barge that had been lost in tow during a stormy weather event. The incident unfolded around 6:50 p.m. when Station Cape Disappointment received an emergency call from the Miki Hana crew, reporting that the towing cable had snapped amidst 20-foot seas, approximately 10 miles west of Astoria. In response, the Coast Guard's Air Station Astoria deployed an HH-60 Jayhawk helicopter to the scene. Throughout the evening, the Coast Guard maintained close communication with the tug's crew. By 11:10 p.m., the tugboat managed to retrieve the barge utilizing an Orville Hook. This barge, carrying an estimated 700,000 pounds of construction materials and 400 gallons of diesel fuel, remains offshore under the vigilant oversight of the Miki Hana's crew, who are currently working to recover 1700 feet of torn tow cable trailing behind the vessel. A second towing vessel has been engaged to assist in transporting the barge to a designated port, where necessary repairs to the towing equipment will be conducted.