P/V Clipper Odyssey; Baby Island, AK

Baby Island, AK | 2004-Aug-01

Initial Notification: The Clipper Odyessy unexpectedly grounded on an uncharted rock immediately west of the Baby Islands just east of Unalaska Island. The grounding occurred at approximately 9:30 pm on July 31, 2004, rupturing only the forward fuel tank which contained about 5000 gallons of diesel, all of which was released. At the time of the grounding, 196 passengers were on board the Clipper Odyssey. These passengers were all evacuated via local fishing vessel, etc. from Dutch Harbor and transported back to Dutch Harbor. With the assistance of two tugs, the salvor Magone Marine stabilized the vessel early morning of Aug. 1 after which it proceded to Dutch Harbor. Oil containment boom was placed around the vessel upon arrival in Dutch Harbor. Diesel fuel was reportedly leaking from the damaged #1 port tank immediately after the grounding and enroute to Dutch Harbor. The response contractor, Chadux, was activated and pre-staged response equipment in Dutch Harbor. The Baby Islands are part of the US Maritime National Wildlife Refuge and as such are loaded with a variety of birds. No oiled birds were observed, however, the IBRRC was alerted. NOAA provided support in the form of weather forecasts, tidal current information, trajectories of the diesel release, and resources at risk information.