T/V WHITE SEA; Ambrose Channel, New York

Ambrose Channel, New York | 2007-Jul-12

Initial Notification: T/V WHITE SEA carrying 556,000 bbls of #2 diesel fuel ran aground in Ambrose Channel between Coney Island, NY and Sandy Hook, NJ while leaving NY Harbor. It has been reported that a problem with the steering system caused the vessel to run aground. No oil has been released. On the afternoon of 7/12/07 there was an unsuccessful attempt to remove the vessel from the grounding site using tugs. USCG and RP in process of preparing salvage and lightering plans. Plan calls for the lightering of 110,000 bbls, expected duration is 10-12 hours. Dive surveys are being planned to ascertain vessel condition and required exit path. Sounding surveys indicate vessel aground along port side from bow to midship. Anticipated refloating schedule would be at high tide, approximately 2000 hourson 7/13.