Gulf crewboat runs aground on submerged jetty, takes on water

The following is the text of a press release issued by the U.S. Coast Guard:

 

(NEW ORLEANS) — The Coast Guard is responding to a grounded crewboat that was reported to be taking on water approximately 8-miles south of South Pass in the Gulf of Mexico, Friday Nov. 7. 2008.

The crewboat Mr. Jacob ran aground on a submerged jetty at 7:40 p.m. One of the crewmembers aboard the Mr. Jacob reported that the vessel was taking on water and may have ruptured two of the vessels fuel tanks.

Coast Guard Sector New Orleans launched the Coast Guard Cutter Razorbill, an 87-foot patrol boat homeported in Gulfport, Miss., and a 41-foot utility boat and crew from Coast Guard Station Venice, La., to respond to the incident and assist with de-watering efforts.

A response crew and vessel from ES&H, an environmental services company specialized in environmental cleanup, are on scene to contain any fuel which may have spilled from the vessel.

Coast Guard pollution investigators and marine inspectors are assessing the extent of damage and pollution potential and working with the vessel owner to develop a salvage plan for the Mr. Jacob.

By Professional Mariner Staff