Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of North-Star

On July 28, 2022, the vehicle carrier 'North Star' played a critical role in a rescue operation conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard after a 42-foot fishing vessel, named 'West Bank', ran aground near Cape Fairweather, roughly 10 miles north of Lituya Bay. The incident was reported at approximately 6:50 a.m. by the captain of 'West Bank', who alerted Coast Guard Sector Juneau that his vessel was stuck on a rocky beach and leaning precariously. Coast Guard watchstanders promptly established communication with the captain via the 'North Star', which remained on-site to provide assistance until a helicopter crew could arrive. At around 10:19 a.m., the MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Coast Guard Air Station Sitka reached the location, where the crew efficiently landed near the fishing vessel, rescued the skipper, and transported him to Air Station Sitka, where emergency medical services were waiting. This operation highlights the critical support that vessels like 'North Star' can offer during maritime emergencies.

TOTE Maritime's Alaska shipping division has successfully completed the initial phase of its ambitious project to convert its two Orca-class vessels from traditional diesel power to liquefied natural gas (LNG). The North Star arrived in Anchorage on Sunday after completing its first operational voyage since the installation of two LNG fuel tanks at Seaspan's Victoria Shipyard in British Columbia, Canada. Along with the addition of LNG tanks and necessary infrastructure, the vessel received essential engine enhancements required for LNG fuel compatibility, and it underwent a routine dry-dock for regulatory compliance. This achievement signifies the completion of "Phase 1" in a comprehensive four-year plan aimed at transforming both the North Star and its sister ship, Midnight Sun, to LNG fuel. Currently, these vessels are powered by four MAN 58/64 engines that operate on heavy fuel oil (HFO). Transitioning to LNG is projected to make significant strides in minimizing air pollution, effectively eliminating sulfur oxides (SOx) and particulate matter, while also significantly reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon dioxide emissions.

After enduring a two-week delay, Tote Maritime Alaska’s cargo vessel, the North Star, has departed Tacoma en route to Anchorage. The announcement came from the company on Friday, noting that the ship successfully completed necessary sea trials before its departure at 7 a.m. This vessel is scheduled to arrive in Anchorage by Monday. Originally slated to sail on January 14, the North Star was held back due to a mechanical issue. This delay caused a temporary shortage of certain items in Alaskan grocery stores. Grace Greene, vice president and general manager of Tote Maritime Alaska, revealed that one of the ship's transformers needed replacement, although further details about the mechanical glitch were not provided. Initially, Tote Maritime anticipated that the necessary repairs would be completed earlier in the week, allowing for a scheduled departure on Wednesday. The North Star, alongside the Midnight Sun, regularly facilitates the transportation of groceries and essential supplies between Tacoma and Anchorage.