The U.S. Coast Guard reports today the 95-foot tug Nalani
unexpectedly sank yesterday afternoon in waters approximately 2,200 feet
deep (670 meters) two and half miles west of Barbers Point Harbor,
Oahu. The eleven mariners on board were all rescued by the towing
vessel Tiger 7 and a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) patrol boat.
No injuries were reported and the cause of the sinking is unknown and
under investigation. An eyewitness says the vessel listed hard over
before sinking by the stern.
The vessel was carrying an estimated 75,000 gallons of diesel fuel
and an oil sheen was observed by Coast Guard responders following the
incident.
Nalani was built in 1981 and was sold by Kirby Corporation approximately one year ago, according to Kirby spokesperson Matt Woodruff.
The Coast Guard is conducting an investigation into the cause of the sinking and has begun interviews with the crew.
All 11 survivors were wearing lifejackets, the Coast Guard said.
