Alaska Maritime Incident: The Impact of Compromised Watertight Doors and System Failures on Vessel Safety

image Credits: Alaska Marine Surveyors

As reported by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), an aging fish tender vessel, the Cape Douglas, sank off Kodiak’s coast last year due to flooding in its lower compartments. Investigators noted that this unfortunate event could have been avoided had watertight doors been properly secured.

The Cape Douglas, which had served for 80 years in industrial fishing, was operating in Chiniak Bay on November 6, 2024. It began taking on water while handling fish waste disposal. The captain opened an inlet valve to activate the deck washdown system—designed to spray seawater and clear debris from the deck—but within about 15 minutes, he noticed water seeping into the lower sections of the boat.

Despite efforts from the crew to manage the situation, thay were unable to halt the influx of water. As conditions worsened, both the captain and a crew member abandoned ship using a skiff that was being towed along. Fortunately, they were rescued by a nearby vessel willing to lend assistance.

At the time of sinking, approximately 400 to 600 gallons of diesel fuel remained onboard. The Cape Douglas was ultimately deemed a total loss with an estimated value of $250,000 and was not salvaged.

Investigators pointed out that issues with an outdated deck washdown system likely contributed significantly to this incident; it hadn’t been tested or utilized for over two years and was at least 25 years old.When pressure was applied during operation, it’s believed that parts may have failed—allowing water into areas below deck.

the NTSB emphasized that maintaining watertight integrity is crucial for safe maritime operations. Watertight doors and bulkheads are essential features designed specifically to contain leaks within designated compartments; if these doors had been closed during this incident as protocol dictates, flooding could have either been prevented or mitigated significantly.Additionally,prior inspections revealed visible rust and damage on Cape Douglas before its sinking—a clear indication of neglect regarding maintenance standards.Just seven months earlier, concerns about its deteriorating condition had already been raised by Kodiak’s harbormaster.

for those interested in further details about this investigation report titled Marine Investigation Report 25-22 can be accessed through NTSB resources.