Alaska Shipwrecks (V)

ABBREVIATIONS:  Aluminum–AL, British Columbia–BC, Central–C, Fiberglass–FRP, Fishing Vessel–FV, Indicated Horse Power–IHP, Longliner-LL, Motor Vessel–MV, North–N, Official Number–ON, Revenue Cutter Service–RCS, Schooner–Sch, Signal Letters–SL, South Central–SC, Southeast–SE, Southwest–SW, Steel oil screw–SOS, Steam Ship–SS, Unknown–U, United States Army–USA, United States Coast Guard–USCG, United States Navy–USN, Westcentral–WC, Wood gas screw–WGS, Wood oil screw–WOS

V O (1967)     The 126 foot crab fishing vessel V O disappeared January 9, 1967 while on a trip from Seattle to King Cove. Five crewmembers were lost including skipper and co‐owner Fred Hill (58) of Vancouver WA, co‐owner John Klebaum (44) of Seattle, his nephew Jon Symonds (22) of Seattle and Bjorne Andrew Osborne (49) of Cordova. The vessel sent out a May-Day that they were sinking and the crew was abandoning ship 15 miles northeast of Marmot Island. A U S Coast Guard training helicopter was in that vicinity but unable to locate the V O or any sign of the vessel. The Coast Guard Cutters Confidence and Storis along with three Navy planes also responded to the area where the V O reported they were sinking. Late January 11^th, two crewmembers bodies were found in a raft 26 miles east southeast of Marmot Island 50 miles northeast of Kodiak.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 13 N 151 50 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 297 Gross 249 Net, Length 126, Built 1943, Former Names Pacific Prince (Canadian) and YMS118 (U S N), ON 504889

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Seattle Daily Times (January 12, 1967) “Bodies of 2 fishermen found on raft identified” Pg 13, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) Pgs 845, 1056

 

VA-SEA-LEES (1990)     The 40 foot fiberglass longline halibut fishing vessel Va-Sea-Lees was consumed by an engine room fire and sank June 6, 1990 in Prince William Sound outside of Strawberry Channel.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 24 N 146 03 W   Chart 16700

Additional Information: ON 697713

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VAGABOND (1937)     The gas boat Vagabond was blown adrift from the Lundy fox farm on Sullivan Island and disappeared December 28, 1937.  William Anderson was lost with the Vagabond.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 53 N 135 19 W   Chart 17300

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VAGABOND (1964)     The 11 ton 40 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Vagabond was destroyed by a hurricane April 2, 1964 at Saint Paul Harbor.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 46 N 152 27 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 11 Gross 7 Net, Length 39.9, Breadth 11.5, Depth 4, Built 1948 at Seldovia, Horsepower 83, SL WD3810, Owner Eugene McLeod, Registered Juneau, ON 258569

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 691, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1006

 

VAGABOND (1965)     The 8 ton 28 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Vagabond burned August 25, 1965 at Naknek.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 43 40 N 157 00 45 W   Chart 16006

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 6 Net, Length 28.4, Breadth 10.3, Depth 4.1, Built 1961 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 165, SL WR4565, Owner Jean B Culmine, Registered Juneau, ON 284855

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 717, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1176

 

VAGRANT (1988)     The 70 foot longline fishing vessel Vagrant was consumed by an engine room fire and sank June 27, 1988 approximately 90 miles west of Sitka.  All five crewmembers escaped to a life raft and were rescued by a U S Coast Guard Helicopter and taken to Sitka.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 03 N 135 20 W   Chart 17320

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VALDER (1959)     The gas screw vessel Valder foundered January 1, 1959 off of Craig.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 28 30 N 133 09 W   Chart 17400

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VALDEZ (1920)     The 12 ton 35 foot gas screw freight vessel Valdez stranded and was lost in Portage Bay near Kanatak February 22, 1920.  The four persons aboard survived, but the Valdez became a complete loss.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 34 05 N 156 02 15 W   Chart 16570

Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross 8 Net, Length 35.7, Breadth 10.9, Depth 4.1, Built 1908 at Valdez, Registered Juneau, ON 205500

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1919) Pg 335, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1920) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 449, 3. H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 313

VALDEZ (1967)     The 5,051 ton Hydro train barge Valdez was driven ashore in a storm while under tow of the tug Sea Witch and lost December 13, 1967 two miles west of the entrance to Yakutat Bay.  The barge and 42 rail cars aboard were a total loss.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 40 N 140 W   Chart 16016

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VALENCIA (1905)     The 1,598 ton 253 foot iron steam ship Valencia stranded at Saint Michael Island at 9:31 p.m. Monday October 16, 1905.  The vessel departed Nome that day and was on her way into Saint Michael.  There were 62 officers and crewmen and 3 passengers on board.  She was carrying a 500 ton cargo of general merchandise valued at $70,000.  The following are excerpts from the casualty report submitted by O M Johnson, master of the Valencia:

“Broad Point on NE coast St Michael Island from ship Broad Point bore Se, ¼ E Magnetic about 1 mile off.  Stranding”  “Unknown current and heavy swells”  “Light NE wind, thick snow, choppy sea.  Heavy snow squalls”  “2 lookouts continuous, casting of lead, Captain and 2^nd Officer on bridge”  “Immediately after ship struck soundings were taken all around ship to ascertain depth of water and nature of bottom.  Engines were worked for the purpose of release, but without effect, after which cargo was jettisoned to lighten her, and messengers were dispatched to St Michael for help”  “Northern Commercial Co.’s tug Meteor and employees of said company and by jettisoning part of cargo, estimated 75 tons.”

The Valencia had a value of $150,000.  The loss to her cargo was listed as $15,000 and the damage to the ship unknown.  The vessel was able to continue south missing some of her cargo. No lives were lost at that time.  Evidence of this wreck may still be on site and of interest.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   63 31 40 N 162 09 30 W   Chart 16240

Comment: The Valencia was lost two months later, January 22, 1906 at Cape Beale Light on Vancouver Island taking with her 126 of the 164 persons aboard.

Additional Information: Tonnage 1,598 Gross 1,177 Net, Length 252.7, Breadth 34, Depth 19.7, IHP 950, Built 1882 at Philadelphia PA, Master O M Johnson of San Francisco, Owner Pacific Coast Co. of New York NY

Sources: 1. U S Customs Wreck Report October 20, 1905, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1906) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 386

VALENCIA (1956)     The 82 ton 69 foot wooden oil screw Valencia stranded and was lost September 11, 1956 on Spanish Island in Southeast Alaska.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 57 N 134 07 W   Chart 17400

Additional Information: Tonnage 82 Gross 55 Net, Length 69.5, Breadth 18.8, Depth 8.4, Built 1927 at Gig Harbor WA, Service freight, Horsepower 140, SL WB 4032, Owner M G Legaz, Registered Seattle WA, ON 226467

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) Pg 538, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1957) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 758

 

VALERIE G (1988)     The fishing vessel Valerie G grounded and was abandoned November 27, 1988 at the head of Nehenta Bay on the southwest side of Gravina Island.  Winds up to 60 knots in Clarence Strait precipitated the disaster.  There was no loss of life.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 09 25 N 131 47 45 W   Chart 17420

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VALIANT (1970)     The seiner Valiant flooded her engine room from a malfunctioning engine cooling line September 26, 1970 in Snow Pass near Ketchikan.  The fishing vessel My Ann took the Valiant in tow but the line parted and the Valiant sank.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 17 N 132 57 W   Chart 17420

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VALO (1949)     The 10 ton 34 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Valo was consumed by fire July 29, 1949 off of Hoonah.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 06 30 N 135 26 30 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 8 Net, Length 33.9, Breadth 9.2, Depth 4.4, Built 1927 at Sitka, Horsepower 20, Owner Walter J Maki, Registered Juneau, ON 227183

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) Pg 561, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1950) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 928

 

VALOROUS (1922)     The American fishing vessel Valorous was lost in a severe storm November 11, 1922.  She was missing out of Prince Rupert along with three other American vessels.

Mapping and Location: Unknown BC or Alaska

Source:  San Diego Union (December 7, 1922) “Four Ships Are Given Up AS Sunk in a Pacific Gale” Pg 1

 

VALVADERE (1929)     Fire destroyed the 10 ton 40 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Valvadere near the Cooper River at 9:10 a.m. June 3, 1929.  The vessel departed Cordova the day before bound for the Copper River Delta fishing grounds with 2 crewmen aboard.  The following are excerpts from the casualty report filed by H Lamereaux, master of the Valvadere:

“Light westerly wind”  “Grass Island, Copper River”  “Explosion of bilge gases”  “Possible backfire thru the carburetor.  Exact cause not determined”  “Bilge pumped at regular intervals of ½ hour”  “None (assistance) needed as vessel laid alongside scow”

The Valvadere was valued at $6,000 and was a total loss.  She had 7 tons of fresh salmon aboard worth $600 of which 20% was lost.  There was no insurance.  No lives were lost.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 15 N 145 17 W   Chart 16013

Comment: This vessel was salvaged and put back into service and founders in 1957.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 8 Net, Length 40.2, Breadth 10.7, Depth 2.8, Built 1920 at Philadelphia PA, Former Name No. 3152 (U S N), IHP 50, Registered Juneau, ON 225558, Master Mr. H Lameraux of Marietta WA, Owner New England Fish Co of Boston MA

Sources: 1. U S C G Report of Casualty July 7, 1929 at Cordova, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1929) Pgs 542-3

VALVADERE (1957)     The 10 ton 40 foot wooden gas screw Valvadere foundered January 21, 1957 at Kodiak.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 7 Net, Length 40.2, Breadth 10.7,  Depth 2.8, Built 1920 at Philadelphia PA, Former Name No. 3152 (U S N), Horsepower 110, Owner W A Ritter, Registered Juneau, ON 225558

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1959) Pg 577, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1960) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 826

VANDERBILT (1888)     The 92.87 ton 85 foot wooden schooner Vanderbilt stranded and was lost at Pirate Cove August 27, 1888.  The vessel departed San Francisco March 8, 1888 with 27 crewmen aboard bound for “fishing and hunting”.  A severe storm, rainy weather and heavy sea led to the disaster.  The entire crew survived, but the Vanderbilt, valued at $4,000 was a complete loss.  Ballast was the only cargo.  There was no insurance.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 21 40 N 160 21 25 W   Chart 16553

Additional Information: Tonnage 92.87, Length 85, Breadth 27, Depth 6.5, Built in 1867 at San Francisco CA, Registered San Francisco, ON 25704, Master R Turner of San Francisco, Owner William Brown MO of San Francisco

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report March 29, 1889 at San Francisco by William Brown, managing owner

VANGUARD (2001)     The 65 foot seiner Vanguard struck an iceberg, flooded and sank July 26, 2001 a half a mile from Glacier Island outside of Columbia Bay, 35 nautical miles southwest of Valdez.  All three crewmembers abandoned ship in survival suits and climbed into the life raft when it deployed.  They were rescued by Good Samaritan vessels nearby.  The Vanguard sank in 200 feet of water in less than two minutes.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 53 N 147 11 W   Chart 16700

Additional Information: ON 224641

Source: U S C G District 17 News Release (July 27, 2001) “Fishing vessel sinks near Columbia Bay after collision with ice”

 

VASHON (1986)     The 200 foot wooden passenger and automobile ferry Vashon ran aground and was lost at Johnson Cove on Prince of Wales Island June 6, 1986.  The vessel had served for many years as a ferry for Vashon Island, the San Juan Islands, and Hood Canal.  She had been taken to Alaska to be used as a supply boat in her waning years, but the grounded ended that endeavor. Remains of the vessel are still on site.  There was no loss of life.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 00 30 N 132 06 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information: Length 200, Breadth 58, Depth 12, Built Houghton WA 1930, ON 229805, SL WB3763

Source: Evergreenfleet.com/Vashon (2014)

 

VEGA (1964)     The 28 ton 48 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Vega was destroyed by a tidal wave March 27, 1964 at Seward.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 06 30 N 149 26 30 W   Chart 16680

Additional Information: Tonnage 28 Gross 21 Net, Length 48, Breadth 14, Depth 5.3, Built 1950 at Anchorage, Horsepower 85, SL WJ9946, Owner Charles I Langlie, Registered Juneau, ON 275988

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 721, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1176

 

VEGA MARIE (1987)     The 85 foot fishing vessel Vega Marie sank August 13, 1987 approximately 50 miles south of Unimak Pass.  All crewmembers were rescued.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   54 20 N 164 50 W   Chart 16011

Source: Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak)

 

VEHAR (2002)     The 39 foot crab fishing vessel Vehar struck a rock, flooded and sank at 2:56 a.m. February 9, 2002 near Cape Chiniak 13 nautical miles southeast of Kodiak.  All three crewmembers abandoned ship in survival suits and were rescued by a U S Coast Guard Helicopter.  Fishing vessels Ambition, Highliner and Bold Pacific also responded to the distress call.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 37 N 152 10 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: ON 683315

Source: U S C G News Release (February 9, 2002) “Coast Guard rescues 3 after fishing boat sinks near Kodiak”

 

VELOCITY (2008)     The 39 foot fiberglass fishing vessel Velocity capsized February 9, 2008 only 200 yards from shore at Mill Bay Beach.  The Velocity was outbound for Afognak Island in heavy weather. The vessel was struck from the port side by a large wave and capsized to starboard. She washed up on the shore an hour and a half later where civilian and U S Coast Guard responders attempted to rescue the two crewmen trapped beneath the hull.  After cutting through the bottom of the fiberglass vessel with a chainsaw, Chuprov Berestov was rescued from an air pocket in the bilge of the Velocity.  Lost was George Reutov, the owner and operator of the Velocity.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 49 30 N 152 20 30 W   Chart 16594

Additional Information: Tonnage 32 Gross 26 Net, Length 37.9, ON 946536

Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. USCG News Release (February 10, 2008) “Fishing Vessel Capsizes Near Kodiak, One Survivor, One Dead”, 3. USCG MISLE Case # 391981

 

VENTURA (1932)     Fire destroyed the 13 ton 45 foot wooden gas screw Ventura near Juneau at 2 p.m. Monday May 16, 1932.  The vessel had departed Annex Creek that day bound for Juneau with 3 persons aboard and no cargo.  The following are statements taken from the casualty report filed by George Baggen, master and owner of the Ventura:

“1/4 mile off Carlson Creek and 2 1/2 miles off Annex Creek Dock, near Juneau, Alaska”  “Engine base exploded, catching boat afire and burned it to water’s edge.  Vessel sank in about 24 fathoms of water”  “Calm weather in afternoon”  “Used all fire extinguishers I had, 2 Pyrenes and 1 3-gallon Foamite.  Had one more extinguisher but couldn’t get to it.  Vessel was in a blaze quickly”  “Crew got off in a skiff, after using all possible means to extinguish fire.  About 25 minutes after fire started an outboard motorboat owned by Ray Hyden came to our assistance and took us back to Annex Creek, from whence we came to Juneau aboard the oil screw Yakobi.”

The Venture had a value of $4,000 and was insured for $2,500.  There was no loss of life.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 18 20 N 134 08 30 W   Chart 17315

Additional Information: Tonnage 13 Gross 11 Net, Length 45.5, Breadth 11, Depth 3.4, Built 1908 at Everett WA, HP 45, Registered Juneau, ON 206280, Master and owner George Baggen of Juneau

Sources: 1. U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty May 17, 1932 at Juneau, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1931) Pgs 538-9

VENTURE (1948)     The 54 ton 63 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Venture foundered May 8, 1948 ten miles northwest of Tugidak Island in the Trinity Island Group.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 30 N 154 40 W   Chart 16580

Comment: A newspaper report from the period places this loss “on a reef on the north end of Trinity Island”

Additional Information: Tonnage 54 Gross 36 Net, Length 63, Breadth 16.4, Depth 7.9, Built 1927 at Seattle WA, Crew 7, Horsepower 90, SL ATME, Owner C J Ness, Registered Seattle, ON 226542

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1948) Pg 534, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 912, 3. San Diego Union (May 9, 1948) “Two Fishing Boats Send Calls for Help” Pg 7-B

 

VENTURE (1964)     The 9 ton 37 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Venture was destroyed by a tidal wave March 27, 1964 at Kodiak.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 9 Gross 6 Net, Length 37, Breadth 11.4, Depth 3.7, Built 1958 at Kodiak, Horsepower 75, Owner Kimball Poland, Registered Juneau, ON 278954

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 722, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1177

 

VENUS (1927)     The vessel Venus was stripped of her wheelhouse and deck gear, including dories, in a storm off of Kodiak in February of 1927.  The vessel made it to Kodiak with not much more than her hull and Bollinger engine.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W   Chart 16580

Source: Juneau Empire (February 19, 1927) Pg 6 and (March 3, 1927) Pg 6

 

VENUS (1946)     The 42 ton 52 foot wooden oil screw Venus was destroyed by fire March 25, 1946 near McNamara Point in Sumner Strait.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 19 50 N 133 03 45 W   Chart 17360

Additional Information: Tonnage 42 Gross 25 Net, Length 52.4, Breadth 15.8, Depth 7.4, Built 1913 at Tacoma WA, Service freight, Crew 7, Horsepower 65, Owner West Coast Transportation Company of Alaska, Registered Ketchikan, ON 211551

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) Pg 563, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1950) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 928

 

VENUS (1963)     The 8 ton 29 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Venus burned August 7, 1963 in Ivan Bay near Chignik.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 N 158 50 W   Chart 16561

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 8 Net, Length 29.8, Breadth 11.1, Depth 3.3, Built 1950 at Seattle, Horsepower 110, SL WD3465, Owner Emmett Anderson, Registered Juneau, ON 261157

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 696, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1006

 

VENUS (1964)     The 19 ton 42 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Venus was destroyed by a tidal wave March 27, 1964 at Seward.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 06 30 N 149 26 30 W   Chart 16680

Additional Information: Tonnage 19 Gross 13 Net, Length 42, Breadth 11.5, Depth 5, Built 1943 at Seattle WA, Former Name J-953 (U S A), Horsepower 75, SL WM5507, Owner George E Tuthill, Registered Juneau, ON 268781

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 696, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1006

 

VENUS (1991)     The 44 foot longliner Venus flooded, capsized and sank in 100 knot winds April 11, 1991 off of Katlian Bay north of Sitka.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 09 N 135 23 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: ON 509395

Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013)

 

VERDON (1964)     The 11 ton 32 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Verdon was destroyed by a tidal wave March 27, 1964 at Valdez.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   61 07 N 146 16 W   Chart 16700

Additional Information: Tonnage 11 Gross 9 Net, Length 32.2, Breadth 11, Depth 4.6, Built 1950 at Everett WA, Horsepower 140, SL WC7674, Owner Paul Gregorioff, Registered Juneau, ON 259691

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 696, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1006

 

VERMA (1990)     The 46 foot wooden salmon fishing vessel Verma sank after a collision with the tug John Brix August 24, 1990 in Snow Pass.  Kenneth Kahklen (34) from the Verma was lost and five others were rescued from the Verma by the fishing vessel Viking Serenade.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 17 N 132 57 W   Chart 17360

Additional Information: ON 245362

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Daily Sitka Sentinel (August 24, 1990) “Petersburg Man Dies After Tugboat Rams Fishing Vessel” Pg 6

 

VERMAY (1950)     The 50 ton 50 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Vermay foundered in August of 1950 near Cape Muzon.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   54 39 50 N 132 41 30 W   Chart 17400

Additional Information: Tonnage 50 Gross 43 Net, Length 50, Breadth 15.2, Depth 6.8, Built 1944 at Hydaburg, Horsepower 100, SL WB5578, Owner Verne J Swanson, Registered Seattle, ON 246163

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1952) Pg 583, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1953-1954) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 750

 

VERNA (1930)     The 9 ton 32 foot gas screw wooden fishing vessel Verna was destroyed by fire August 15, 1930 at Point Rosalie.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 34 15 N 133 24 45 N   Chart 17400

Comment: I have charted this wreck at Point Saint Rosalia which is speculation on my part.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 9 Gross 7 Net, Length 32.3, Breadth 9.8, Depth 4.9, Brake Horsepower 29, Built 1919 at Seattle WA, Owner Harry W Benolkin of Ketchikan, Registered Seattle, ON 217960

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1931) Vessels Reported Lost Pg 940, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1930) Pgs 542-3

 

VERNIA (1904)     The 6 ton 28 foot sloop Vernia struck a rock and was lost in Lynn Canal at 9:30 p.m. Monday January 4, 1904.  The vessel had departed Juneau December 9, 1903 and was bound for Hunters bay with 2 persons aboard.  Her cargo at the time of the disaster was 4,000 pounds of fish and fishing gear worth $200.  The following are excerpts from the wreck report:

“9:30 p.m. dark”  “Darkness and squall”  “Struck rock”  “Kitten Island, Hunters Bay, Lynn Canal, Alaska”  “Squall struck her and she was blown on the rock.  Hole punched in her side”  “Sunk and was battered to pieces”

The Vernia had a value of $150 and was a total loss along with her cargo.  There was no insurance and no loss of life.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 15 N 134 56 W   Chart 17316

Comment: Probably The Kittens near Funter Bay.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross and 6 Net, Length 28, Breadth 10.7, Depth 3.7, Built 1889 at Port Blakeley WA, Master and part owner William Beckler of Juneau, Owners William Beckler and Ernest King of Juneau, ON 161664

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report January 16, 1904 at Juneau by Ernest King for Beckler & King

VERON MAO (1950)     The 10 ton 33 foot wooden gas screw pleasure vessel Veron Mao foundered October 11, 1950 in Cook Inlet.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 05 N 152 30 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 8 Net, Length 33.5, Breadth 10.3, Depth 4.6, Built in 1942 at New Orleans LA, Horsepower 250, Owner Richard L Terry, Registered Juneau, ON 257307

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1952) Pg 405, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1953-1954) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 747

 

VERONA (1974)     The oil screw Verona stranded and was lost September 13, 1974 off of the east side of Kodiak Island.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 20 N 153 22 W   Chart 16013

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

VESTFJORD (1989)     The 97 foot crab fishing vessel Vestfjord was lost with all hands January 29, 1989 approximately 30 miles south of the Trinity Islands.  The Vestfjord was travelling from Seattle to Dutch Harbor when she encountered a storm with winds to 60 knots and seas to 30 feet.  She was able to get out a MAYDAY and communicate that severe icing was sinking the vessel.  The six persons lost with the Vestfjord were skipper Dick LaGary (40) of Port Angeles WA, crewmen Kevin Melnick (28), Ricky Kristovich (37), Doug Harding (35) of Seattle, Bill Hodgins (33) of Kodiak and passenger Danny McDonald.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 33 N 154 20 W   Chart 16580

Comment: Part owner of the Vestfjord Jens O. Jenson was killed October 29, 1981 when a rogue wave struck the vessel north of Dutch Harbor.

Additional Information: ON 523393

Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. Plain Dealer (Cleveland OH January 30, 1989), “Missing crabber hunted” Pg 5 A

 

VETER (2001)     The 37 foot longline cod fishing vessel Veter stranded and sank January 30, 2001 within 200 yards of Evans Point in Prince William Sound.  The operator of the vessel struck an object, began taking on water and was forced to run her aground to prevent further sinking.  An Urgent Marine Broadcast drew the attention of the fishing vessel Hellion who rescued the crew of three from the beach.  Salvage was under consideration.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 08 N 147 54 45 W   Chart 16700

Sources: 1. U S C G News Release (January 31, 2001) “Coast Guard responds to sinking vessel, Good Sam recovers survivors”, 2. ADEC Situation Report (January 31, 2001) “F/V Veter”

 

VICKY LYNN (1984)     The 31 foot seiner Vicky Lynn foundered near Cape Chiniak August 5, 1984 when a swell washed over her open deck.  The four crewmen escaped to a skiff and were picked up by the U S Coast Guard.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 37 N 152 10 W   Chart 16580

Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VICTOR (2002)     The 99 foot wooden fish tender Victor was consumed by flames July 23, 2002 in the Shelikof Strait 18 miles east of Cape Kuliak.  The vessel was on her way from Bristol Bay to Prince William Sound to tender salmon.  While attempting to extinguish the blaze, an explosion in the engine room injured the master of the vessel.  All four crewmembers abandoned ship and were rescued by U S Coast Guard Helicopter and taken to Kodiak.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 48 10 N 153 55 W   Chart 16580

Comment: The MISLE puts this wreck in Kennedy Entrance which is in conflict with the News Release. WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 199 Gross 160 Net, Length 99.2, Breadth 30, Depth 9, ON 276682, Call Sign WUV9607, Built 1943 San Francisco CA, Former Name Thistle

Sources: 1.USCG News Release (July 23, 2002) “Four rescued from life raft after fishing boat fire in Shelikof Strait”, 2. USCG MISLE Case # 984942, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) Pgs 1597 & 2008

 

VICTORIA (1871)     The 149.38 ton whaling brig Victoria was abandoned in the ice around Point Belcher and lost September 14, 1871.  The vessel sailed out of San Francisco and had a value at the time of the disaster of $30,000.

Mapping and Location: Northern Alaska   70 47 40 N 159 39 02 W   Chart 16005

Additional Information: Tonnage 149.38, Registered San Francisco, ON 25786, SL JFWS

Sources: 1. Harper’s Weekly (December 2, 1871) “Destruction of the Arctic Whaling Fleet”, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1868) Pg 242

VICTORIA (1900)     The schooner Victoria went to pieces off the rocks on Cape Prince of Wales in the series of storms around September 12, 1900.  The crew was rescued by the schooner Alice days after the disaster.

Mapping and Location: Northern Alaska   65 36 N 168 05 W   Chart 16005

Sources: 1. San Francisco Call (October 24, 1900) “Picks Up Two Shipwrecked Crews…” Pg 2, 2. Honolulu Republican (November 3, 1900)

 

VICTORIA ANN (1997)     The 42 foot salmon seiner Victoria Ann ran aground and sank after a hull plank gave way September 24, 1997 in Hidden Basin, Ugak Bay.  The only person aboard made it to safety in a skiff.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 30 30 N 152 56 W   Chart 16593

Additional Information: ON 257756

Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VICTORIA II (1871)     The whaling bark Victoria II was abandoned in the ice off Point Belcher and lost September 14, 1871.  The Victoria II sailed out of Honolulu, Sandwich Islands and had an estimated value at the time of the disaster of $25,000.

Mapping and Location: Northern Alaska   70 47 40 N 159 39 02 W   Chart 16005

Sources: 1. Alaska File of the Revenue Cutter Service 1867-1914, 2. Harper’s Weekly (December 2, 1871) “Destruction of the Arctic Whaling Fleet”  “Lost Vessels List”

VICTORY (1943)     The 17 ton 35 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Victory burned January 21, 1943 at Lat. 55 17 N Long. 131 37 W.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 17 N 131 37 W   Chart 17420

Comment: These coordinates put the wreck near Gravina Point just south of Ketchikan.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 17 Gross 13 Net, Length 35.8, Breadth 12, Depth 5.1, Built 1908 at Dockton WA, Crew 4, Horsepower 20, Owner Frank Natkong, Registered Ketchikan, ON 205697

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1945) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 778, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1944) Pg 324

 

VICTORY MAID (1964)     The 67 ton 62 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Victory Maid was reported lost in the Good Friday earthquake of March 27, 1964 at Kodiak.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 47 20 N 152 24 10 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 67 Gross 46 Net, Length 62.1, Breadth 18.2, Depth 8.5, Built 1943 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 190, SL WB4170, Owner Ira L Olson, Registered Seattle, ON 244015

Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 699

 

VIEWPOINT (2012)     The 49 foot wooden longline fishing vessel Viewpoint struck a rock at Gardner Bay July 29, 2012 causing a breach in her hull. The master of the vessel suffered a head injury that required stitches. Good Samaritan fish tender Ocean Maid tied alongside the Viewpoint and attempted to assist in dewatering the vessel. The Viewpoint was later put in tow by U S Coast Guard Ketchikan rescue boat 47260 but began taking on water and sank August 3, 2012 in 600 feet of water.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   54 49 30 N 131 57 45 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information: Tonnage 21 Gross 17 Net, Length 49.5, Breadth 14.9, Depth 6.8, Built 1945 Seattle WA, ON 247373, Call Sign WD8126

Sources: 1. 17^th Coast Guard District Enforcement Report (Jun-Sep 2012), 2. USCG MISLE Case # 605953, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) Pg 1599

 

VIGILANT (1879)     The 215 ton wooden whaling bark Vigilant was lost with all hands in the Arctic October 10, 1879.  The Vigilant sailed out of the Sandwich Islands with a crew of about 30 for whaling in the Arctic.  The vessel is supposed to have been stove in by ice about 25 miles southwest of Herald Island, Siberia.  The Vigilant had a value of $22,000 which was a complete loss.  She was carrying $16,000 worth of oil and whale bone with a value of $16,000.  The vessel was fully insured but her cargo had no insurance.

Mapping and Location: Siberia   Chart 16003

Comment: Lost along with the 325 ton bark Mount Wollaston.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 215.20, Home Port New Bedford MA, ON 25609, SL HSDV, Master Charles R Smithers of Wilkes-Barre PA, Owner J H Bartlett & Sons of New Bedford MA

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed January 23, 1882 at New Bedford by J W Bartlett & Sons, Agts.

VIGILANT (1903)     The steam tug Vigilant was lost in NE Dixon Entrance in August of 1903.  The vessel had departed Sunny Point and was on the Ketchikan mail route when the helmsman fell asleep and ran the Vigilant into the rocks at full speed on Fox Island off of Cape Fox.  One crewman was injured by a broken steam pipe.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   54 45 50 N 130 51 W   Chart 17420

Sources: 1. H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 94, 2. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992)

VIGILANT (2009)     The 58 foot fish tender Vigilant stranded and was lost August 15, 2009 near the southwest entrance to Chugach Bay in Chugach Passage.  The operator of the vessel left the bridge to check an engine room alarm and found the vessel in shallow water on his return.  Attempts to refloat the vessel at the time of the stranding failed and the two crewmembers were transferred to the fishing vessel North Star and transported to Homer.  The vessel was carrying 114,000 pounds of pink salmon at the time of the disaster.  Salvage efforts were intended.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 11 N 151 34 W   Chart 16640

Additional Information: Length 50.2, ON 633732, Call Sign WDD2770, Built 1981

Sources: 1. U S C G District 17 Enforcement Report (August 15, 2009), 2. ADEC Situation Report (September 2, 2009) “F/V Vigilant Sinking”, 3. USCG MISLE Case # 468920

 

VIKING (1902)     The 146 ton 108 foot schooner Viking was lost off of Unga at 10:00 a.m. Sunday April 20, 1902.  The vessel departed San Francisco March 10, 1902 bound for Unga with 7 crewmen aboard.  She had a 220 ton cargo of salt, lumber and provisions valued at $2,500.  The following are excerpts from the wreck report:

“Popoff Island Point, Unga, Alaska”  “Stranding”  “Vessels anchors not holding in heavy swell, vessel drifted ashore”  “NE gale, snowing and rough sea, dark”  “Total loss to owners.”  “Master called survey, sold vessel and cargo for $650.  Have since learned that vessel has been floated by new owner and will be repaired and saved”

The Viking and her cargo were reported as total losses.  The vessel was valued at $6,000 and insured for $4,200.  The cargo was valued at $2,500 and was fully insured.  No lives were lost.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 11 N 160 30 10 W   Chart 16553

Comment: Evidence of this wreck may still be on site and of interest.  The Viking was repaired, put back into service and wrecked again in 1904 near Cape Prince of Wales.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 146 Gross 139 Net, Length 108, Breadth 30, Depth 8.2, Built 1882 at Marshfield OR, Registered San Francisco, ON 161510, SL JWVD, Master J T Mortenson of San Francisco, Managing Owner William Olsen of San Francisco

Sources: 1. U S Customs Wreck Report July 25, 1902 at San Francisco by C D Bunter, part owner and agent, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1901) Pg 188

VIKING (1904)     The 146 ton 108 foot wooden schooner Viking stranded and was lost off of Cape Prince of Wales at 11 p.m. August 4, 1904.  The vessel departed San Francisco June 20, 1904 bound for Saint Lawrence, Wales, Teller, and Unalaska with six crewmembers.  She was carrying a 200 ton cargo of general merchandise and lumber valued at $9,000.  The following are excerpts from the wreck report filed by Samuel N Estvoll, master and owner of the Viking:

“2 miles west of Kingegan (Wales), Prince of Wales, Alaska”  “Anchors dragging”  “Strong south gale, heavy sea”  “Hove up anchor, hoisted jib”  “On the 5^th of August left ship and started to unload cargo with crew and natives.  Ship and cargo sold at auction on 15^th of August 1904 for $1,260.”

The Viking had a value of $6,000 and was a total loss.  $7,800 worth of the cargo was also lost.  The vessel was insured for $1,500 and her cargo for $8,000.  There was no loss of life.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   65 37 N 168 05 W   Chart 16005

Additional Information: Tonnage 146 Gross 139 Net, Length 108, Breadth 30, Depth 8.2, Built 1882 at Marshfield OR, Registered San Francisco, ON 161510, SL JWVD, Master and owner Samuel N Estvoll of San Francisco

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report August 20, 1904 at Nome

VIKING (1923)     The 27 ton 47 foot wooden gas screw Viking washed up on Sitkinak Island and was lost at 10:00 a.m. December 6, 1923.  The vessel departed Port Wrangell December 2, 1923 bound for Kodiak with a cargo of 10 tons of empty coal oil drums.  The following are excerpts from the casualty report filed by Andrew Grosvold, owner of the Viking:

“Vessel left Sand Point on Nov. 2^nd with a hunting party on board.  On Dec. 2^nd being in need of fuel and provisions, dropped into Kanatak, while crew and hunters were ashore getting same, gale suddenly sprung up, making it impossible to return to ship and at about 6:00 a.m. morning of the 3^rd, anchor chain parted about 10 ft. from the hawse pipe, allowing the vessel to drift out of the harbor”  “Vessel anchored in 3 fathoms of water with 250 lb. anchor and 45 fathoms of ¾ inch chain”  “Blew out of Kanatak, Alaska, morning of Dec. 3^rd, 1923 while master and crew were ashore, leaving only the cook on board.”  “N.W. gale suddenly sprung up, making it impossible for master and crew to get on board”  “Sitkinak Island off the South end of Kodiak Island”  “Total loss”

The Viking had a value of $6,500 and her cargo $375 which were both lost.  Neither the vessel nor her cargo was insured.  There was no loss of life.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 33 N 154 10 W   Chart 16580

Comment: The Viking was wrecked more than 70 miles southeast of where she parted her anchor chain.  It must have been a troubling voyage for George Johansen, the cook that was along for the ride.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 27 Gross 18 Net, Length 47, Breadth 16, Depth 4.6, Service freight, IHP 10, Built 1916 at Sand Point, Registered Unalaska, ON 214355, Master Johan Olsen of Sand Point, Owner Andrew Grosvold of Sand Point

Sources: 1. U S C G Report of Casualty March 1, 1924 at Unalaska, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1923) Pg 295, 3. San Diego Evening Tribune (January 23, 1923) “Ship Vanishes Beneath Sea, One Aboard”

VIKING (1935)     The 15 ton 46 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Viking was lost off of Icy Bay at 6:00 a.m. Sunday August 25, 1935.  The vessel departed Wingham Island, Prince William Sound, under tow bound for Petersburg.  The following are excerpts from the casualty report filed by Harold Hofstad, master of the Viking:

“Heavy wind and big seas”  “Was being towed by New Rustler and heavy blow came up and had to cut Viking adrift about 35 miles off Icy Bay, Gulf of Alaska”  “Probably is a total loss”  “Could do nothing but cut Viking adrift from the gas screw New Rustler”  “Viking was being towed by New Rustler to save gas and also because there was not a sufficient crew to man the two boats”

The Viking had a value of $1,500 and was not carrying cargo.  She was a total loss with no insurance.  There was no loss of life.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 55 N 141 33 W   Chart 16016

Additional Information: Tonnage 15 Gross 12 Net, Length 46.4, Breadth 8.9, Depth 4.4, Built 1908 at Seattle WA, HP 70, Registered Seattle, ON 232578, Master Harold Hofstad of Petersburg, Owner Jack Coble of Petersburg

Sources: 1. U S C G Report of Casualty September 6, 1935 at Juneau, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1935) Pgs 618-9

VIKING KING (1971)     The 87 foot crab fishing vessel Viking King swamped and sank September 3, 1971 off of Akun Island near Unalaska.  Two of the four crewmembers on board were lost; John P Aus (40) and Sam Swenning (45), both from Seattle.  Two of John Aus’ sons, David (21) and Donald (20) survived by clinging to an overturned life raft until they reached the shore.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   54 11 N 165 32 W   Chart 16011

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Anchorage Daily News (September 10, 1971) “Fishing mishaps kill four” Pg 2

 

VIKING ROVER (1977)     The 85 foot 180 ton oil screw shrimp fishing vessel Viking Rover foundered March 1, 1977 at 54 01.79 N 165 31.02 W.  The vessel lost steerage 43 miles south of Cape Sarichef, became disabled and sank in rough weather.  40 to 50 knot winds and 16 foot seas were reported in the area.  All four crewmen were rescued by a U S C G helicopter from Kodiak.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   54 01.79 N 165 31.02 W   Chart 16006

Comment: These coordinates put the loss near Rootok Island east of Dutch Harbor. WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 180 Gross, Built 1973, ON 552632

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1978) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 2120, 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. Seattle Times (March 3, 1977) “4 Rescued near Alaska as Shrimp Boat Sinks” Pg D 4

 

VINA (1976)     The fishing vessel Vina was found capsized on shore in Cedar Pass November 1, 1976 with both crewmembers missing. Donald Davis (19) and Laura Higby (17) had been on a hunting and fishing trip to whale bay south of Sitka and were thought to have been lost.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 46 N 135 11 W   Chart 17320

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VINDICATOR (1955)     The 253 ton 126 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Vindicator struck a submerged reef and was lost July 8, 1955 at Cape Saint Elias. The seven man crew was rescued by the U S Coast Guard and transported aboard the cutter Klamath to Kodiak. Attempts were made by the crew of the Klamath to salvage the Vindicator or the 30 foot vessel lashed to her deck but were unsuccessful. Rescued from the Vindicator were master Will P. Lowman of Anacortes, Franklin Wright, Douglas Gourd, and Richard Knudson of Anacortes and Duane Wilson, Howard Fayette and Jack Nanney of Snohomish.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 54 N 144 36 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: Tonnage 253 Gross 172 Net, Length 126.1, Breadth 25, Depth 11.3, Built 1942 at Tacoma WA, Former Name YMS-127 (U S N), Horsepower 400, SL WB 4209, Owner W P Loman, Registered Seattle, ON 250346

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1955) Pg 540, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 745, 3. Daily Sitka Sentinel (July 13, 1955) “AP Alaska Briefs” Pg 2, 3. Fairbanks News Miner (July 12, 1955) “Coast Guard Saves Crew of Wrecked Fishing Vessel” Pg 6

 

VINE (1907)     The 226 ton 108 foot wooden schooner Vine stranded and was lost on the beach near Deering at 4:40 a.m. Friday September 20, 1907.  The vessel departed San Francisco June 26, 1907 bound for the Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean with 8 crewmen aboard.  She was carrying 65 tons of general merchandise valued at $12,000 when the disaster occurred.  The following are excerpts from the wreck report submitted by Phillip H Cook, master of the Vine:

“On beach at Deering, Alaska”  “Stranding”  “NE gale blowing on shore, dragging anchor”  “Heavy NE gale, thick weather, and very heavy sea”  “Lying on and one half miles off shore, having our 1,200# anchor out, and 45 fathoms of chain put out, kedge anchor 500#”  “Stranding during NE gale and very thick weather.  Could obtain no assistance outside of crew.  Lightered cargo ashore by crew and longshoremen.  As winter is approaching left vessel in charge of W H Goodin at Deering, Alaska”

The Vine was valued at $10,000 and became a total loss.  She had no insurance.  Half of the cargo was lost as well.  There was no loss of life.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   66 04 N 162 42 W   Chart 16005

Additional Information: Tonnage 226 Gross 222 Net, Length 107.9, Breadth 31.1, Depth 11.3, Built 1890 at Gig Harbor WA, SL KHPW, Registered San Francisco CA, ON 161640, Master Philip H Cook of San Francisco, Owner Morris Marcus of San Francisco

Source:  U S Customs Wreck Report October 17, 1907 at Nome

VIOLA (1935)     The 10 ton 32 foot gas screw fishing vessel Viola stranded and foundered near San Fernando Island at 8:00 p.m. January 28, 1935.  The vessel departed Craig January 26^th and was bound for Waterfall with two persons aboard.  The following are excerpts from the casualty report filed by Harry Nelson, master and owner of the Viola:

“Very strong wind, dark rainy night”  “Point Amargura on San Fernando Island about 10 miles SW of Craig”  “Stranded on rocks”  “Strong wind”  “When wind came up we tied boat securely at Waterfall Cannery”  “Gas screw Roal came to assist in bringing Viola back, but wind was too strong”

The Viola had a value of $1,000 and became a total loss.  She was not carrying cargo and was not insured.  No lives were lost.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 27 N 133 21 30 W   Chart 17400

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 6 Net, Length 32, Breadth 10.5, Depth 3.4, Built 1912 at Keyport WA, HP 15, Registered Ketchikan, ON 210766, Master and owner Harry Nelson of Craig

Sources: 1. U S C G Report of Casualty March 11, 1935 at Craig, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1934) Pgs 604-5

VIOLET (1964)     The 11 ton 31 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Violet was consumed by fire August 2, 1964 in Anchorage Bay near Chignik.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 19 N 158 23 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: Tonnage 11 Gross 8 Net, Length 31.7, Breadth 12, Depth 4.2, Built 1957 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 150, SL WJ2841, Owner McAlister Equipment Leasing Company, Registered Juneau, ON 274045

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 700, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1006

 

VIRGIE K (1961)     The 13 ton 39 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Virgie K foundered September 24, 1961 in Sitka Sound.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 N 135 30 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: Tonnage 13 Gross 10 Net, Length 39.4, Breadth 11, Depth 3.8, Built 1940 at Bremerton WA, Horsepower 110, Owner Eugene Meyer, Registered Sitka, ON 259817

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1960) Pg 597, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 905

 

VIRGINIA (1964)     The 10 ton 29 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Virginia foundered July 10, 1964 in Cook Inlet.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 05 N 153 30 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 8 Net, Length 29.7, Breadth 9.2, Depth 5.6, Built 1960 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 141, SL WR7755, Owner Edward J Martel, Registered Bellingham WA, ON 280522

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 701, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1006

 

VIRGINIA IV (1935)     The 92 ton 97 foot oil screw motor freighter Virginia IV stranded and was lost off of Yakobi Island, near the entrance to Lisianski Strait, April 24, 1935.  The vessel was on her way to Kimshan Cove

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 50 N 136 27 W   Chart 17320

Comment: This vessel was subsequently assisted off of the rocks and towed to Juneau by the U S Coast Guard cutter Tallapoosa.

Additional Information: Tonnage 92 Gross 59 Net, Length 97.6, Breadth 22.7, Depth 6.7, Built 1904 at Tacoma WA, HP 100, Home Port Tacoma WA, ON 200681

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1935) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1030, 2. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 441, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1934) Pg 606, 4. Seattle Times (April 27, 1935) “Ship Pulled Off Reef By Cutter” Pg 9

VIRGINIA E (1964)     The 70 ton 68 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Virginia E burned November 23, 1964 at King Cove.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 03 20 N 162 19 W   Chart 16540

Additional Information: Tonnage 70 Gross 42 Net, Length 68.7, Breadth 17.3, Depth 8, Built 1926 at Dockton WA, Horsepower 180, SL WB4229, Owner Pacific American Fisheries Inc., Registered Bellingham WA, ON 225567

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 702, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1006

 

VIRGINIAN (1989)     The 38 foot salmon fishing vessel Virginian was consumed by fire June 16, 1989 at Grass Island in the Gulf of Alaska.  Both crewmembers were rescued.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 17 30 N 145 11 30 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: Built 1979, ON 605200

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VIRGINIUS (1925)     The 35 ton 56 foot wooden gas screw fishing schooner Viriginius broke loose from her tow and foundered at 10 a.m. Monday June 15, 1925.  The vessel departed Port Moller June 14^th in tow of the vessel Katherine D and was bound for Ketchikan.  There was no one aboard the Virginius and no cargo.  The vessel is reported to have broken loose and foundered at 54 55 00 N 165 50 W.  There was a strong SW wind with heavy seas and no shelter nearby.  The Virginius had a value of $3,000 and was a total loss.  No lives were lost.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   54 55 N 165 50 W   Chart 16006

Additional Information: Tonnage 35 Gross 23 Net, Length56.4, Breadth 15, Depth 6.3, Built 1912 at Tacoma WA, IHP 50, Registered Seattle WA, ON 209649, Master none, Owner Pacific American Fisheries, Vessel Insurance $3,000

Sources: 1. U S C G Report of Casualty June 25, 1925 at Bellingham WA by Archie W Shields for Pacific American Fisheries, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1924) Pg 293

VIS (1925)     The 17 ton 41 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Vis stranded and was lost in Kasaan Bay at 4 a.m. May 20, 1925.  The vessel had come to Kasaan Bay from Ketchikan with two persons aboard.  The following are excerpts from the casualty report filed by Arthur Wadhams, master of the Vis:

“Struck rock”  “Off Long Island (Kasaan Island) in Kasaan Bay”  “Sunk from striking rock”  “Southwest Gale”  “Tried to pull her off and after getting her off she sunk in deep water”  “Gas boat Louisiana helped pull her off”

The Vis had a value of $3,000 and was a total loss.  She was not carrying cargo.  There was no insurance.  The two aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 30 N 132 21 W   Chart 17426

Additional Information: Tonnage 17 Gross 11 Net, Length 41, Breadth 12.9, Depth 4.5, IHP 32, Built 1910 at Tacoma WA, Registered Ketchikan, ON 207620, Master Arthur Wadhams of Ketchikan, Owner Joseph Dulskes of Ketchikan

Sources: 1. U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty July 7, 1925 at Ketchikan, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1924) Pg 293

VISITOR (1933)     The 13 ton 39 foot wooden gas screw Visitor burned at Hamilton October 8, 1933.  The three persons aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   62 53 45 N 163 53 10 W   Chart 16006

Additional Information: Tonnage 13 Gross 8 Net, Length 39.1, Breadth 11.5, Depth 2.8, Built 1928 at Saint Michael, Service freight, Horsepower 32, Owner George T Butler of Saint Michael, Registered Nome, ON 228079

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1936) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1035, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1933) Pgs 590-1

 

VITA (1970)     The crab fishing vessel Vita burned and was abandoned March 9, 1970 near Seward.  Two crewmembers were rescued from a raft by the U S Coast Guard.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 06 30 N 149 26 30 W   Chart 16680

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VITANIC (1967)     The 131 ton 79 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Vitanic was destroyed by fire October 16, 1967 at Chernofski.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   53 24 30 N 167 33 W   Chart 16500

Additional Information: Tonnage 131 Gross 67 Net, Length 79.1, Breadth 22.1, Depth 10.4, Built 1944 at Tacoma, Horsepower 400, SL WB4244, Owner Rainier Boat Company, Registered Juneau, ON 246018

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 729, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1177

 

VOLANT (1905)     The 172 ton 123 foot wooden schooner Volant drifted ashore and was lost in Kuskokwim Bay at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday June 21, 1905.  The vessel departed Unalaska June 11^th bound for Kuskokwim Bay with 7 crewmembers aboard.  She was carrying 100 tons of general merchandise cargo worth $16,000.  The following are excerpts from the wreck report submitted by C C Lutjens,

master of the Volant:

“On sand banks of Kuskokwim Bay”  “Stranding by drifting ashore”  “Heavy gales, anchors dragged”  “Very strong gale, thick weather and a high sea”  “Put anchors out but would not hold.  Slipped the same to run vessel to safe place to save cargo”  “No assistance rendered”  “Total loss”

The Volant had a value of $6,000 and was a total loss.  There was no loss of cargo.  No lives were lost.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   59 N 163 W   Charts 16006, 16300

Additional Information: Tonnage 172 Gross 164 Net, Length 122.8, Breadth 29, Depth 8.9, Built 1883 at Fairhaven CA, SL KBHD, Registered San Francisco CA, ON 161515, Master E E Lutjens of Alameda CA, Owner H C Larsen of Alameda CA

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report July 26, 1905 at Unalaska by Lutjens

VOLANTE (1916)     The 125 ton schooner Volante broke loose from the two motor tugs Gjoa and Penguin and was lost in a gale in Chatham Strait in January of 1916. She was being towed from Petersburg to Sitka and was loaded with salt and herring fishing nets and gear. She stranded on a reef near Cape Ommaney and was abandoned as lost. Two months and 400 miles later she was found by a Canadian the fishing schooner Tuladie. The Volante was adrift and trailing seaweed in the Gulf of Alaska with most of her valuable cargo intact. A lawsuit ensued between the original owners of the Volante and the salvage schooner Tuladie. A second lawsuit was filed between the crew of the Tuladie and her owners. The crewmembers claimed that because they were not employees of the Tuladie but were paid on a share basis, they were in fact business partners of the Tuladie and should be compensated for the salvage rights in like manner. The Volante was built in 1891 and owned by Pacific Mild Cure Company.  There was no loss of life.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 03 N 134 32 W   Chart 16016

Sources: 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 269, 2. Daily Alaska Dispatch (January 15, 1916) “Schooner Is Lost” Front Page, 3. The Morning Oregonian (March 29, 1916) “Fishing Tender Volante Picked Up After Long Wanderings” Pg 15

VOLANTE (1938)     The 18 ton 58 foot gas screw fishing vessel Volante was lost in the vicinity of Salisbury Sound on or about October 15, 1938.  The vessel departed Sitka bound for sea fisheries with only C N Robinson aboard.  She was never heard from again.  The following are excerpts from the casualty report:

“Believed lost off Point Amelia, Alaska”  “Not definitely known, believe swamped and broken up by heavy sea during storm”  “Believe vessel beaten to pieces”  “Unknown but believe to have been gale force, possibly 40 to 50 miles per hour”  “Unknown as the master was alone on the vessel and no other vessel was near”  “Nothing definite can be stated, however, he was a good navigator and had been in the waters where lost often enough to know conditions and familiar with all harbors or places of safety”

The Volante was valued at $1,500 and may have been carrying fresh salmon.  There was no insurance.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 13 30 N 135 52 30 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: Tonnage 18 Gross 16 Net, Length 57.9, Breadth 11.5, Depth 4.2, IHP 25, Built 1908 at Seattle WA, Registered Ketchikan, ON 200137, Master C N Robinson of Ketchikan, Owners C N Robinson and Estate of John C Waggoner of Port Orchard WA

Sources: 1. U S C G Report of Casualty at Ketchikan March 14, 1939 by C R Bilderback, agent, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1938) Pg 304

 

VOLCANO (1895)     The 39.8 foot wooden trading sloop Volcano was caught in a vicious gale April 20, 1895 and dashed upon the rocks at Pauloff Harbor, Sanak Island and lost. The crew was able to escape to the beach through the surf.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   54 27 45 N 162 41 30 W   Chart 16520

Comment: Pauloff Harbor is on the west shore of Pavlof Harbor on the north central coast of Sanak Island. WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 14.08 Gross 13.38 Net. Length 39.8, Breadth 13.7, Depth 4.4, Built 1889 at Pescada Landing CA, ON 161603, Registered Sand Point

Sources: 1. San Francisco Chronicle (May 19, 1895) “Wrecked in the North” Pg 26, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1895) Pg 200

 

VOSTOK (1989)     The fishing vessel Vostok sank near Middleton Island June 13, 1989

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 26 N 146 20 W   Chart 16013

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

VOYAGER (1988)     The 81 foot fishing vessel Voyager rolled over and sank November 17, 1988 while at anchor in a cove in Ugak Bay.  The crew of five escaped in survival suits.  Three were picked up from the beach and two 200 yards off of Gull Point.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 25 N 152 35 W   Chart 16580

Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)