Alaska Shipwrecks (D)

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

D L CO NO VII (1916)     The 72 ton scow D L Co No VII was wrecked at the Bering River August of 1916.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 11 N 144 15 W   Chart 16723

Additional Information: Tonnage 72, Built 1904, ON 162371

Sources: 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 269, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1921) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 456

D L CO NO XXXIII (1943)     The 562 ton 128 foot wooden barge D L Co No XXXIII foundered January 23, 1943 off Four Mountains Island near Inanudak Bay on Umnak Island.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   53 18 N 168 25 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: Tonnage 562 Gross and Net, Length 128, Breadth 41, Depth 11.1, Built 1918 at Hadlock WA, Owner Drummond Lighterage Company, Registered Seattle WA, ON 167339

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1947) Pg 123, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1948) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 861

D L CO NO XLIX (1948)     The 297 ton 110 foot wooden scow D L Co No XLIX stranded and was lost February 23, 1928 at Makchanik Island in Chignik Bay.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 20 N 157 49 W   Chart 16566

Additional Information: Tonnage 297 Gross and Net, Length 110.1, Breadth 36, Depth 8.6, Built 1926 at Fort Blakely WA, Owner Drummond Lighterage Company, Registered Seattle, ON 169464

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1948) Pg 125, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 909

D & M II (1962)     The 84 ton 110 foot steel barge D & M II foundered September 4, 1962 off of Ocean Cape.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 32 30 N 139 51 30 W   Chart 16016

Additional Information: Tonnage 84 Gross and Net, Length 110.2, Breadth 34.2, Depth 10.4, Built 1915 at Bremerton WA, Former Name YC-304 (U S N), Owner Don Starkweather, Registered Ketchikan, ON 281686

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 165, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1165

 

D S S CO NO 1 (1957)     The 41 ton 60 foot wooden scow D S S Co No 1 foundered June 20, 1957 at Hoonah.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 41 Gross and Net, Length 60, Breadth 20, Depth 4.2, Built 1916 at Seattle, Owner Icy Straits Salmon Company, Registered Juneau, ON 166244

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1957) Pg 126, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1958) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 777

 

D S S CO NO 6 (1924)     The wood scow D S S Co No 6 was “hauled out on beach and wrecked; not fit for further use” in July of 1924 at Port Althorp on the north shore of Chichagof Island.  The wreck report was filed by Thomas E Stone, agent and attorney in fact for Deep Sea Salmon Co February 1, 1929 in Seattle.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 11 30 N 136 23 W   Chart  17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 17 Gross 17 Net, Built 1918, Registered Juneau, ON 167165, Value $1,000

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed February 1, 1929 at Seattle

D S S CO NO 8 (1943)     The 33 ton 54 foot wooden scow D S S Co No 8 foundered at the Taku River in 1943.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 25 30 N 133 59 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 33 Gross and Net, Length 54.2, Breadth 18, Depth 4, Built 1919 at Seattle WA, Owner P E Harris and Company, Registered Ketchikan, ON 167554

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) Pg 142, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1950) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 926

 

DAE RIM (1981)     The 291 foot Korean cargo ship Dae Rim caught fire and washed ashore February 28, 1981 at Cape Wrangell 90 miles west of Attu in the Aleutian Islands.  24 crewmembers were lost and only two survived.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   52 55 30 N 172 28 E   Chart 16012

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DAITO MARU NO 55 (1981)     The 105 foot Japanese trawler Daito Maru No 55 was lost with all hands March 13, 1981 approximately 380 miles northwest of Adak.  26 crewmembers perished in the disaster.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   51 45 N 176 45 W   Chart 16012

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DAKOTA (2002)     The 50 foot seine fishing vessel Dakota burned September 25, 2002 in Izhut Bay on Afognak Island.  The two crewmembers aboard escaped by skiff to the beach.  A U S Coast Guard Helicopter responded to their distress call and transported them to Kodiak.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 11 N 152 15 W   Chart 16580

Source: U S C G News Release (September 26, 2002) “Boat blaze strands two, Coast Guard rescues fishermen”

 

DALMATIA (1975)     The 12 ton oil screw Dalmatia foundered July 14, 1975 approximately 7 miles south of Naknek.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross, Built 1968, ON 517728

Source: Merchant Vessels of the U S (1976) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1869

 

DAN JR (1938)     It was Wednesday July 13, 1938 when the wood gas screw Dan Jr exploded and burned near Pleasant Island.  The cause of the blast was listed as “gas fumes”.  The following are excerpts from the wreck report filed at Juneau by an agent for the owners:

“…Gas fumes blew up…Burned”  “Blowing strong, choppy”  “Blew up and boat caught fire.  Man and boy jumped overboard with life preservers and swam to skiff which had been blown off boat and were picked up by watchmen.”  “Trap watchmen rowed over in boat and picked man and son.”

The Dan Jr had left Excursion Inlet and was headed to Icy Straits with two aboard.  The vessel was valued at $4,000 at the time of the casualty with no insurance.  There was no cargo listed.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 21 N 135 38 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 17 Gross 14 Net, Built 1930, Registered Juneau, ON 229420, Owner Astoria and Puget Sound Canning Co of South Bellingham Washington

Source: Report of Casualty filed by A C Adams August 16, 1938

DAN PRINCE (1980)     The 46 million dollar oil drilling platform Dan Prince sank in 16,000 feet of water while under tow October 22, 1980 approximately 300 miles southeast of Dutch Harbor.  All 18 crewmembers on board were rescued.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   53 54 N 166 31 W   Chart 16011

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DANACO NO 5 (1956)     The 88 ton 110 foot wooden barge Danaco No 5 foundered June 17, 1956 approximately 12 miles below Sleetmute on the Kuskokwim River.

Mapping and Location: Central Alaska

Additional Information: Tonnage 88 Gross and Net, Length 110, Breadth 20.6, Depth 4.8, Built 1932 at Houghton WA, Owner Alaska Towing & Salvage, Registered Juneau, ON 171481

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1957) Pg 127, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1958) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 777

 

DANIEL WEBSTER (1881)     The 327 ton whaling vessel Daniel Webster was crushed in the ice and sank 5 miles south of Point Barrow July 2, 1881.

Mapping and Location: Northern Alaska   71 23 29 N 156 28 30 W   Chart 16003

Sources: 1. Lewis and Dryden’s Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1961) Pg 291, 2. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992)

DANIELLE (1983)     The vessel Danielle was lost February 16, 1983 on the rocks near Shuyak Island north of Kodiak.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 30 N 152 37 35 W   Chart 16580

Source: Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak)

 

DANNY BOY (1985)     The fishing vessel Danny Boy burned from an engine fire and sank January 1, 1985 off of Smith Island.

Mapping and Location: Alaska   Unknown

Comment: Multiple Smith Islands.  WG

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DANUBE (1986)     The 43 foot wooden troller Danube sank while on a crabbing trip October 30, 1986 a quarter mile southeast of Marmion Island southeast of Juneau.  The vessel had a white hull and red markings and was reported overdue October 30^th. A subsequent search revealed wreckage washed up on Douglas and Admiralty Islands and an oil slick between the two.  Owner W. Scott Lewis and crewmembers Tom Kelly and Bill Tugman, all from Juneau, were never found.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 11 55 N 134 15 20 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 15 Gross 10 Net, Length 39, Breadth 11.4, Depth 5.3, Built 1932 Seattle WA, HP 82, SL WA4036, ON 231659,

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Daily Sitka Sentinel (October 31, 1986) “Boat Missing” Pg 6, 3. Daily Sitka Sentinel (November 3, 1986) “Fishing Boat Debris Found” Pg 1, 4. Daily Sitka Sentinel (November 4, 1986) “NOAA Joins Boat Search” Pg 5

 

DARDANELLA (1934)     The gas screw Dardanella stranded and was lost Wednesday August 8, 1934 at 1:00 a.m. at Barlow Point in Stephens Passage.  The vessel had departed Juneau and was travelling to East Point in Chatham Strait with three persons aboard.  The survivors made it back to Juneau in a small boat.  According to Esther Ellsworth, the master and part owner, the vessel was overpowered by the tide rips and taken ashore.  She was laden with 7 tons of groceries and clothing valued at $400.  The Dardanella was valued at $4,000.  Both the vessel and cargo are listed as total losses with no insurance.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 22 45 N 1434 53 30 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 19 Gross 13 Net, Built 1921, Registered Juneau, ON 221843, Owner James Lay of Juneau

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed August 13, 1934 by Ellsworth

DARK STAR (2002)     The 43 foot longline halibut fishing vessel Dark Star struck a submerged object and was abandoned June 13, 2002 about eight miles west of Spray Cape northwest of Unalaska.  All three crewmembers were rescued with the help of the U S Coast Guard and the fishing vessel Republic.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   53 36 50 N 167 09 20 W   Chart 16500

Additional Information: ON627000

Source: U S C G News Release (June 13, 2002) “Coast Guard continuing to assist fishing vessel crew”

 

DARLINE C (1983)     The seiner Darline C was consumed by an engine room fire and lost September 5, 1983 near Old Harbor.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 12 15 N 153 18 W   Chart 16580

Comment: There is some question as to the accuracy of the location.  WG

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DASHING WAVE (1891)     The 106 foot wood schooner Dashing Wave stranded and was lost Saturday April 15, 1891 at 3:00 p.m. at Coal Bay.  The vessel had left Sand Point earlier that day with eight crew and 120 tons of general merchandise and was bound for Isatok.  Conditions at the time of the casualty are listed as “Thick snowstorm and strong currents.”  “Storm, gale, snowing, heavy seas, daylight.” No crewmen were lost, but the Dashing Wave and her cargo were.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 22 N 161 22 W   Chart 16551

Comment: Most publications put this wreck in Coal Harbor on Unga Island.  I charted it across Unga Passage on the mainland in the Coal Bay located just east of Cape Tolstoi.  Zachary Bay on Unga was sometimes called Coal Bay at the time.  The wreck of the Edward S Webster from two years before the loss of the Dashing Wave was still fresh in local lore making a wreck on the same reef doubtful.   Many early accounts have the loss listed in the Bering Sea which I am guessing is where the Dashing Wave was bound.  An account of the loss of the Dashing Wave from a Congressional Report in 1892 puts her loss at Hair Seal Cape (now Seal Cape) which further verifies the Coal Bay of the mainland near Cape Tolstoi.  WG

Additional Information: Length 106, Breadth 27, Depth 9.9, Tonnage 141.46, Built 1867 Eureka California, Registered San Francisco, ON 6546, Master F M Gaffney of San Francisco, Owner W C Lynde of San Francisco, Vessel Value $8,000, Cargo Value $5,000, Vessel Insurance $7,000, Cargo Insurance $4,000

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed at San Francisco June 3, 1891 by Gaffney

DASHING WAVE (1920)     The 1,054 ton wood barge Dashing Wave stranded and was lost at Shelter Point, Vancouver Island, British Columbia at 3:39 a.m. Tuesday March 16, 1920.  She was carrying a cargo of general cannery supplies valued at $69,599.99 half of which was lost.  The Dashing Wave was valued at $15,000 and was a total loss.  What was left of her was towed ashore by the S S San Juan.  The Dashing Wave had left Seattle March 14, 1920 bound for Taku via Ketchikan with nine crew who all survived the casualty.

Mapping and Location: Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Additional Information: Tonnage 1054 Gross 941 Net, Built 1853, Registered Port Townsend Washington, ON 6533, Master Ed Hilde of Taku, Owner Libby McNeil Libby of Seattle, Vessel Insurance none, Cargo Insurance $76,560.00

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Seattle

DAUNTLESS (1973)     The 91 foot halibut and crab fishing vessel Dauntless disappeared with all hands on a trip from Ketchikan to Kodiak.  The vessel left Ketchikan October 16, 1973 and was never seen again.  Lost were skipper Arne Madsen, Trond Loken, John Qvilaug and Kaare Leksas.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   Unknown

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. The Seattle Times (November 7, 1973) “Maritime Fix-it Department” Pg C 2

 

DAUNTLESS (1980)     The 58 foot limit seiner Dauntless stranded and was lost December 1, 1980 at Ulakta Head on Amaknak Island just north of Dutch Harbor. The vessel was newly built and on her maiden voyage. No loss of life was reported.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   53 55 35 N 166 30 45 W   Chart 16520

Comment: Pictures of this wreck evidence that most of it was salvaged or cut up for scrap from the rocky beach where it stranded. WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 73 Gross 50 Net, Length 48.9, 365 HP, ON 615655, Owner Jerrold O. Erickson, ADF&G #40539

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Alaska CFEC Public Look-Up (2016)

 

DAVEY LYNN (1952)     The 7 ton 32 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Davey Lynn stranded and was lost February 12, 1952 on Egg Island off of Whale Island Point in Marmot Bay.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 57 N 152 47 W   Chart 16594

Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross 6 Net, Length 32.3, Breadth 10.1, Depth 3.3, Built 1951 at Kodiak, Crew 3, Horsepower 90, Owner Neil A Sargent, Registered Juneau, ON 262814

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1952) Pg 129, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1955) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 738

 

DAVID FOSS (1975)     The tug David Foss flooded from the stern and sank in 10 fathoms of water January 11, 1975 near Cape Kasilof in Cook Inlet.  The vessel was engaged in tending an oil rig in icy conditions.  All six crew members escaped to safety.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 22 N 151 22 W   Chart 16660

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DAVID T (1999)     The 32 foot salmon fishing vessel David T was consumed by a galley fire and lost July 7, 1999 in Refuge Cove near Ketchikan.  There was no one on board at the time of the disaster.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 24 N 131 45 W   Chart 17428

Additional Information: ON 944449

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

 

DAVY-J (1964)     The 13 ton 38 foot wooden gas screw Davy-J was reported lost in the Good Friday earthquake of March 27, 1964 at Kodiak.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   5747 20 N 152 24 10 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 13 Gross 10 Net, Length 38.6 Breadth 10.8, Depth 4.8, Built 1937 at Seattle WA, Service passenger, Horsepower 95, SL WG3372, Owner Herman Schultz, Registered Juneau, ON 235975

Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 163

 

DAWN L (1985)     The 45 foot fishing vessel Dawn L exploded and sank July 12, 1985 off of Axel Lind Island in Prince William Sound.  The Dawn L was tied to the 63 foot fishing tender Alliance and was refueling.  The Alliance also sank.  All seven persons aboard the two vessels survived.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 47 30 N 147 43 30 W   Chart 16700

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

 

DAYDREAMER (1996)     The 39 foot fishing vessel Daydreamer stranded on a reef and was lost January 14, 1996 near Hog Island outside of Afognak Bay.  All four persons aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 N 152 41 W   Chart 16594

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

 

DAYLIGHT (1979)     The 37 foot troller Daylight capsized and was lost in heavy weather November 30, 1979 in Seven Fathom Bay 18 miles south of Sitka. Owner Neland J Haavig and Norman Wilson had been deer hunting in the area when a 40-50 mile an hour gale came up. The men attempted to depart the bay in the Daylight but were blown onto the rocks. They were barely able to get out a May-Day before the Daylight was capsized by the winds. Soon a U S Coast Guard Helicopter hoisted the men to safety and transported them to the Sitka Hospital to be treated for hypothermia.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 47 30 N 135 18 45 W  Chart 17326

Additional Information: Alaska Registration AK1949C, ADFG 12670

Sources: 1. Sitka Daily Sentinel (November 30, 1979) “Pair Rescued After Boat Goes Aground” Pg 1, 2. Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission “Daylight”

 

DAY’S END (1990)     The 31 foot fiberglass salmon fishing vessel Day’s End capsized September 29, 1990 off of Montague Island.  The operator, who had a history of blackouts, was lost.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 10 N 147 15 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: ON 557543, Built 1974

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DEANN (1996)     The 25 foot fishing vessel Deann sank December 3, 1996 off of Fish Egg Island.  All three persons on board made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 29 20 N 133 10 15 W   Chart 17400

Additional Information: 591956

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

 

DEAR JOHN (1969)     The gas screw Dear John was consumed by fire August 26, 1969 one and a half miles north of Funter Bay in Chatham Strait.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 14 15 N 134 55 W   Chart 17300

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DEBBIE ANN (1989)     The 32 foot wooden longline halibut fishing vessel Debbie Ann grounded in heavy weather, capsized and sank May 16, 1989 in Roller Bay.  Both crewmembers made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 31 N 133 46 W   Chart 17400

Additional Information: ON 553583

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004)

 

DEBBY (1972)     The 30 foot wooden diesel powered fishing vessel Debby burned June 25, 1972 at False Pass.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   54 51 15 N 163 24 30 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross 9 Net, Length 30, Breadth 11, Depth 4.9, Built 1959 Eagledale WA, 97 HP, SL WL6213, ON 278615

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1974) Pg 1254, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 172

 

DEBBY JOANN (1990)     The 38 foot fiberglass fishing vessel Debby Joann sank in five fathoms of water July 7, 1990 in Cook Inlet off of Kasilof.  The sole occupant of the vessel was rescued.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 23 15 N 151 17 45 W   Chart 16660

Additional Information: ON 584530

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DEBORAH D (1990)     The 99 foot wooden fish tender Deborah D grounded, was holed and sank while at anchor April 26, 1990 in Ursus Cove.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 32 N 153 40 W   Chart 16640

Additional Information: ON 254569

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DEBRA D (1997)     The 102 foot fishing vessel Debra D caught fire while moored at Magone Marine in Dutch Harbor January 1, 1997. There was no one aboard the vessel. The bridge and accommodation spaces were completely destroyed and the vessel was declared a total constructive loss. The source or cause of the fire was not determined but appeared to be electrical in nature. The Debra D was completely rebuilt and put back into service as a fishing vessel in Alaska.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   53 53 27 N 166 32 05 W   Chart 16520

Additional Information: Tonnage 182 Gross 138 Net, Length 101.6, Breadth 24.1, Depth 10.5, Built 1981, ON 643920, Call Sign WDD6379

Source: USCG MISLE Case # 824653

 

DEBS (1951)     The 18 ton 39 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Debs exploded and burned August 9, 1951 in Valdez Arm six miles from Valdez.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 53 N 146 54 W   Chart 16700

Additional Information: Tonnage 18 Gross 12 Net, Length 39, Breadth 12.2, Depth 4.6, Built 1913 at Seattle WA, Crew 7, Horsepower 30, Owner Pete Nicholoff, Registered Juneau, ON 211858

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1951) Pg 129, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1952) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 955

 

DECORA (1971)     The fishing vessel Decora struck a reef and sank February 3, 1971 on Colorado Reef in Wrangell Narrows.  All five crewmen were taken off of the Decora by the U S Coast Guard Cutter Henlopen.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 38 20 N 132 56 10 W   Chart 17375

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DEEP SEA (1942)     The 54 ton 70 foot wooden oil screw Deep Sea stranded and was lost at Anchorage November 26, 1942.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   61 13 05 N 149 53 30 W   Chart 16660

Additional Information: Tonnage 54 Gross 37 Net, Length 70.6, Breadth 16, Depth 6.5, Built 1919 at Friday Harbor WA, Service freight, Crew 4, Horsepower 160, Owner Uganik Fisheries, Registered Cordova, ON218145

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1945) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 774, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1944) Pg 120

DEEP SEA (1976)     The 72 foot fish tender Deep Sea sank August 26, 1976 in Whale Pass.  The vessel was on her way to Kodiak from Mush Bay.  All 8 persons on board were lost including skipper John W. Nichols of Dallas, Valerie McRae (23), her 20 month old daughter Heather McCrea, Kathy McCrea (19), Molly McCrea (18), Earl McKee, Barney Eldridge and 5 year old Cy McAvery Rodgers.  Most of those lost were from the Helena area of Montana. Winds of 50 knots and seas 15 to 20 feet were reported in the area of the loss. The vessel was able to get out a May-Day call which was received by the Alaska Marine Highway Ferry Tustamena. When responding vessels arrived on scene only life vests, the unopened canister of the life raft, a power skiff and a portion of the bridge of the Deep Sea were found. The lost vessel was a fish tender owned by the New England Fish Company.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 56 N 152 50 W   Chart 16594

Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List, 2. The Sunday Oregonian (August 29, 1976) “Sea search for 8 halted” Pg C2, 3. Fairbanks Daily News Miner (August 27, 1976) “Coast Guard Joins Search for Survivors” Pg A-6, 4. Fairbanks Daily News Miner (August 28, 1976) “Search May Be Halted” Pg A-2

 

DEEP SEA PRODUCER (1988)     The 164 foot trawler (converted tug) Deep Sea Producer flooded and sank November 29, 1988 approximately 30 miles west of Unimak Island.  All eight crewmembers were rescued from a life raft by the fishing vessel Royal Sea.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   54 45 N 165 W   Chart 16011

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DEFENDER (1907)     The 44 foot wood schooner Defender foundered at Kuskokwim Bay October 22, 1907.  There was a crew of three aboard and two passengers none of whom were lost.  The home port of the Defender was listed at Saint Michael and she had a value estimated at $1,500.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   59 N 164 W   Chart 16006

Additional Information: Tonnage 17 Gross 17 Net, Length 44, Breadth 15.4, Depth 5, Built Unalakleet 1906, ON 203373

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report

DEFIANCE (1930)     The 7 ton 37 foot gas screw lighterage vessel Defiance “foundered in heavy weather” near Cape Blossom in Kotzbue Sound October 15, 1930.  The crew of four was picked up by the steamer Arthur J Baldwin.  The Defiance was on a trip from Nome to Kotzbue when the casualty occurred.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   66 44 N 162 30 W   Chart 514 (INT 814)

Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross 5 Net, Length 37, Breadth 9.4, Depth 3.8, Built 1907 at Seattle WA, Registered Nome, ON 204154,  Horsepower 25, Owner Nome Lighterage & Commercial Company, Vessel Value $2,500

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1931) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 939, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1930) Pgs 278-9, 3. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992)

DEFIANCE (1934)     The 27 ton 47 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Defiance foundered off Anchor Point July 25 , 1934.  The three crewmen aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 46 30 N 151 51 45 W   Charts 16013, 16661

Comment: Formerly the gas screw Daisy

Additional Information: Tonnage 27 Gross 18 Net, Length 47.2, Breadth 13.4, Depth 6.3, Built 1917 at Tacoma WA, Horsepower 40, Owner Alaska Year Round Canneries of Seldovia, Registered Seward, ON 215358

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1935) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1029, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1934) Pgs 282-3

DEFIANCE (1986)     The fishing vessel Defiance sank May 31, 1986 approximately 15 miles southwest of Cape Spencer.  All four crewmembers were rescued by the fishing vessel Adak.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 12 45 N 136 39 30 W   Chart 16016

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DEFY (1939)     The 18 ton gas screw fish packer Defy stranded on a rock at Kaigani Point, Cordova Bay Tuesday August 29, 1939 at 2:00 a.m.  The following is an accounting of the casualty by her owner and operator Fred Nimtz of Ketchikan:

“Light SE wind and rain…poor visibility…stranded”  “After hitting rock tried to make shore but took water too fast and got caught on another rock and had to leave boat.  As tide went out, the boat turned over on her Port side.”  “The Beloit II rendered assistance but to no avail.”  “After Beloit II found she could be of no assistance she went to Ketchikan and reported the accident to the USCG Cyane on August 29^th.  On August 30^th, the Cyane arrived but by that time the Defy had slid into deeper water, breaking up gradually and could not be salvaged.”

There were two crewmen aboard the Defy at the time of the casualty, both survived.  They had been fishing and had 6,000 lbs of fish aboard valued at $150.  The Defy was valued at $2,000.  All was lost when the vessel sank; there was no insurance.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska 54 45 10 N 132 39 10 W   Chart17409

Additional Information: Tonnage 18 Gross 12 Net, Built 1926, Registered Ketchikan, ON 226049

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed September 11, 1939 at Ketchikan

DEL NORTE (1868)     The 601 ton stern wheeler Del Norte was lost October 21, 1868 at Valdez according to the Encyclopedia of American Shipwrecks.  Other records have this casualty at Porlier Pass, British Columbia.  A Boston news account mentions the steamer Del Norte was wrecked in the fog about 50 miles north of Victoria while traveling south from Sitka. There was no loss of life and most of the cargo and furniture were salvaged. The vessel was built in 1865 with an official number of 6515.

Mapping and Location: Unknown

Sources: 1. Encyclopedia of American Shipwrecks (1972) “Del Norte”, 2. Boston Daily Advertiser (October 27, 1868) “Disasters, etc.”

DELAWARE (1931)     The 32 ton gas screw Delaware struck a submerged object Sunday June 14, 1931 at 6:15 p.m. and sank.  The casualty occurred 18 miles north of the Barren Islands while on a trip from Daylight Harbor in Shuyak Strait to Seldovia.  The Delaware had 4 crew aboard and 4.5 tons of cargo including barreled salt, ballast and tools.  The following is an account given in the Casualty Report filed by master John McKnab August 1, 1931:

“Moderate easterly breeze, foggy, daylight.”  “About 18 miles north from Barren Isl. Entrance to Cook Inlet…Struck submerged object.  Submerged object broke through hull.”  “After striking this object the vessel leaked faster than we could pump.  We abandoned her in a sinking condition at 7:20 p.m.  At the rate the water was coming in she could not have floated longer than ½ hour.  Owing to fog we did not see her sink but the air tank and skylight hatch were picked up on the beach in Kamishak Bay 8 days later.”

The Delaware, valued at $5,000 and her cargo were lost but the crew survived.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 55 30 N 152 15 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: Tonnage 32 Gross 25 Net, Age 14 years, Registered Seward, ON 214941, Owner Herring Bay Packing of Seldovia, Last Port Daylight Harbor June 14, Destination Seldovia, Insurance unknown

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Seward August 1, 1931

DELHI (1915)     The 986 ton wood steamer Delhi stranded at Straits Island Reef and was lost at 8:05 p.m. January 18, 1915.  The vessel and her crew of 27 departed Craig that day bound for Wrangell with 7.5 tons of empty oil drums and merchandise.  The crew survived the incident but not the Delhi.  The following are excerpts from the casualty report filed March 3, 1915 by E C Wardle, acting manager for Pacific Coast Steamship Co.:

“SE wind blowing, misty with light snow falling – very dark.”  “Light obscured at intervals and strong ebb tide.” “Upon sighting land, ship backed at full speed.”

“SS Salvor attempted to save vessel but owing to heavy storms was unsuccessful.”  “During heavy storm on Feb. 5^th steamer drifted off reef, was found several days later by gasoline boat Takue and towed to north side of Sumner Island, where she now lies, her hull so damaged as to be a total loss.”

The crew survived the casualty but the Delhi, valued at $125,000 was lost.  She was insured for $90,000.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 24 30 N 133 48 30 W   Chart 17360

Comment: There is a story in H W McCurdy, Pg 256, of this casualty and subsequent salvage

Additional Information: Tonnage Gross 986, Built 1906, Registered New York, ON 203502, Master C P McCarthy of Seattle, Owner Pac Coast Co of New York

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty March 3, 1915

DELIGHT (1920)     The 11 ton 35 foot gas screw Delight was lost at Ketchikan February of 1920.  The Delight was valued at $700 with cargo.  The vessel broke apart while on the ways.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 20 30 N 131 38 45 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information: Tonnage 11 Gross 7 Net, Length 35.1, Breadth 14, Depth 2.9, Service passenger, Built 1906 at Eagle Harbor WA, Registered Seattle, ON 203035

Sources: 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg313, 2. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1921) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 454, 4. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1918) Pg 214

DELIVERANCE (1980)     The 40 foot fishing vessel Deliverance foundered January 22, 1980 off of Marmot Island.  Dave Dowie was the only survivor.  Lost with the Deliverance were Butch Miller and Charles Cochran of Kodiak.

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

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

 

DELL (1948)     The 8 ton 36 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Dell was destroyed by fire August 17, 1948 near Haines, opposite the Chilkat River in Lynn Canal.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   59 14 10 N 135 26 15 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 7 Net, Length 36, Breadth 12.5, Depth 3, Built 1923 at Wrangell, Horsepower 65, Owner E L Kelly, Registered Wrangell, ON 222812

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1948) Pg 119, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 909

DELLWOOD (1943)     The 3,923 ton 320 foot steam ship Dellwood struck a submerged pinnacle and sank July 19, 1943, 190 degrees true from Alexai Point, Attu Island.  The vessel was laying fire control cable between Attu and Shemya when the disaster occurred.  No lives were lost.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   52 48 45 N 173 18 30 E   Chart 16012, 16432

Comment: Wreck marked on charts.  Tonnage on wreck list 4,195.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 3,923 Gross, 2,489 Net, Length 320.7, Breadth 46, Depth 24.4, Built 1920 at Oakland CA, Service passenger, Crew 31, Horsepower 1,800, SL KUBZ, Owner Alaska Steamship Company, Registered New York, ON 219690

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1944) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 754, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1943) Pg 21, 3. Alaska Steam (1984) Pg 93

DELPHINE (1903)     The launch Delphine was lost at Karluk in 1903.  The Delphine was valued at $900 with cargo.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 34 10 N 154 27 30 W   Chart 16580

Sources: 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg94, 2. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992)

DEMETRA M (1993)     The 34 foot longline halibut fishing vessel Demetra M rolled, filled with water and sank while at anchor July 1, 1993 in Emerald Cove, Columbia Bay.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 57 15 N 147 02 W   Chart 16708

Additional Information: ON 251187

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

 

DEMOCRAT (1931)     The 34 ton wooden gas screw Democrat was lost August 12, 1931 while engaged in deep sea fisheries.  The crew of six survived but the Democrat, valued at $18,000 and her 28,000 lb. cargo of halibut, valued at $2,240.00 were lost.  The following is an account of the loss detailed in the Casualty Report filed master Henry Arntzen on August 19^th:

“NW breeze foggy and rough.”  “Iniskin Shoal (hit here)…hit submerged reef.”  “After hitting the rocks on the morning of the 11^th, about 6 a.m. we were stranded until high tide took us off, at which time we pumped her out and gave her the once over and decided that she was seaworthy and then started across Cooks Inlet, looking for smoother water and a place to finish our trip; and arriving at the Inlet, about 6 P.M. that night, we set our gear and then anchored for the night and on the next day, the 12^th, we started setting and hauling our gear for several hours, with all hands on deck, when without any warning the engine stopped from the water which she had taken on and which was the first warning we had that she was again leaking badly and, of course, with the engine stopped we had no way of using the power pumps but kept the hand or deck pump going but without avail; and, of course, with the engine stopped, we had no way of running for a haven or of beaching her.” “Foundered N.W. Yukon Island”

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 31 30 N 151 29 30 W   Chart 16645

Additional Information: Tonnage 34 Gross 27 Net, Built 1918, Registered Ketchikan, ON 215922, Last Port Kodiak August 6, Vessel Insurance $12,000, Cargo Insurance $2,240

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed August 19, 1931 at Ketchikan

DENIA M (1961)     The 19 ton 39 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Denia M foundered September 9, 1961 off of Bold Cape near King Cove.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 01 30 N 162 15 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: Tonnage 19 Gross 16 Net, Length 38.9, Breadth 12.2, Depth 6.2, Built 1952 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 141, Owner Alvin Newman, Registered Juneau, ON 263167

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1959) Pg 140, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 902

 

DENNY JO (1952)     The 38 ton 50 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Denny Jo foundered November 24, 1952 in Stag Bay, Lisianski Strait, near Cape Spencer.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 35 45 N 136 21 30 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 38 Gross 30 Net, Length 50, Breadth 15,8, Depth 6.3, Built 1945 at Sitka, SL WA4148, Crew 7, Horsepower 165, Owner John J Townsend, Registered Seattle, ON 248579

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1952) Pg 134, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1953-1954) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 744

 

DENNY M (1964) The 39 foot fishing vessel Denny M went missing August 13, 1964 after a routine radio call. An air and sea search was initiated August 16, 1964 and the fishing vessel Shrimper found the Denny M submerged in the Keku Islands area of Rocky Pass August 24, 1964. All three persons aboard were lost including Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Chevalier of Seattle and their son Barney Chevalier of Westport, WA. Bernhardt “Barney” Chevalier was owner and skipper of the Denny M. The vessel had been fishing crab for the Reliance Shrimp Company of Wrangell. The Denny M had a history of problems with the crab tank raw water pump in the engine room disconnecting and flooding the engine room.  The Denny M was subsequently salvaged and put back into service. She sank again in 1982 and again in 2003, both times with no loss of life and in both instances salvaged. The Denny M was built in 1950 at Friday Harbor, WA with Official Number 260098. She was owned by Bernhardt M Chevalier and registered at Seattle, WA at the time of her loss.

 

DENTIST (1963)     The 274 ton 80 foot wooden barge Dentist burned in November of 1963 at Nakwasina, 20 miles north of Sitka.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 12 N 135 24 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: Tonnage 274 Gross and Net, Length 80, Breadth 22, Depth 4.9, Built 1958 at Sitka, Owner J L Thompson, Registered Sitka, ON 280014

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 176, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1166

 

DENVER (1968)     The gas screw Denver burned January 1, 1968 at Juneau.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 18 15 N 134 24 30 W   Chart 17300

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DEPERE (1929)     The 3,475 ton 320 foot Alaska Steamship Company freighter Depere ran up on the rocks off of Cape Decision at 6:55 P.M. November 15, 1929. A storm in the area was said to have contributed to the disaster. There were 35 persons aboard. The vessel was beached near Port McArthur an hour after striking and was in a sinking condition. All but a few of her crew abandoned ship and camped nearby. With the assistance of the U S Coast Guard cutters Unalga and Cygan and the salvage vessel Salvage King, the Depere was eventually refloated and towed south to Tacoma.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 00 10 N 134 08 W   Chart 16016

Comment: The Depere was salvaged. It is included in this compilation because evidence of this wreck may still be on site and of interest.  WG

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1929) Pg 54, 2. Seattle Daily Times (November 16, 1929) “Aid Rushed To Men In Shipwreck Off Alaska” Pg 1, 3. San Diego Union (November 18, 1929) “Land Castaways off Sunken Ship” Pg 6, 4. San Francisco Chronicle (November 30, 1929) “Freighter Depere Floated” Pg 17

 

DESIREE C (1996)     The 38 foot fiberglass fishing vessel Desiree C capsized and was lost in 25 foot seas April 4, 1996 one mile north of light #8 in Chiniak Bay.  The two crewmembers onboard, Jack Christiansen (41) and Larry (Lolly) Larionoff Jr (24) were lost with the Desiree C.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 42 N 152 20 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: ON 581962

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

 

DESMOND (1876)     The 301 ton bark Desmond was caught in the ice and abandoned NE of Point Barrow September 12, 1876 while whaling in the Arctic.  The Desmond was out of Honolulu.

Mapping and Location: Northern Alaska   71 23 29 N 156 28 30 W   Chart 16003

Sources: 1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. : U S Commission of Fish and Fisheries : The Fishery Industries of the United States Section 5 Volume II “Destruction of the Arctic Whaling Fleet, 1876” Pgs 83-84

DESTINY (1994)     The 32 foot gillnet fishing vessel Destiny caught fire and sank June 22, 1994 at Port Moller.  All four crewmembers were rescued by another fishing vessel.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 59 30 N 160 34 30 W   Chart 16006

Additional Information: ON 946624

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

 

DESTINY (2000)     The 96 foot steel crab fishing vessel Destiny flooded and sank in 90 fathoms of water April 20, 2000 northwest of Rocky Point on the west side of Kodiak Island.  All five crewmembers donned survival suits and abandoned ship to the life raft.  They were rescued by the vessel Polar Star.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 39 45 N 154 13 50 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: ON 590962

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

 

DETROIT (1898)     The 81 foot wood steamer Detroit struck a reef at the north end of Shelter Island in Lynn Canal about noon November 25, 1898 during a snowstorm and sunk.  She was carrying about 27 passengers and a crew of 10 but no lives were lost.  The Detroit left Skagway November 24^th bound for Juneau.  The following are excerpts from the Wreck Report filed by C B Russell of the Seattle Wharf and Land Co of Seattle, the owners of the vessel:

“The steamer was off her regular course ½ mile or more.  Steamer is in water supposed to be 50 feet deep.”  “Engines slowed down to about 2 miles an hour and sharp lookout kept.”  “Not a heavy wind or sea running, though some of both.”  “Occurred during snowstorm.  Pilot is supposed to have lost his bearings.” “Struck rock, hung, and sunk by heavy seas some hours later.”  “Crew took steamer’s lifeboats and took passengers to Shelter Island, ½ mile distant.”

The Detroit was valued at $14,200 at the time of the wreck and had neither cargo nor insurance.

Mapping and Location:  Southeast Alaska   58 26 N 134 52 W   Chart 17316

Comment: It is mentioned on the wreck report “hope to recover portion of her machinery.”

Additional Information: Length 81, Breadth 15.3, Depth 6.9, Built Detroit Washington 1889, Rebuilt 1897, Tonnage 109 Gross 74.76 Net, Registered Seattle, ON 157264, Master Thomas Latham of Juneau

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed February 8, 1898 in Seattle

DEVIL SEA (1978)     The 44 foot vessel Devil Sea stranded and was lost November 3, 1978 on Igitkin Island near Grand Sitkin Islands in the Aleutians.  All four crewmen all made shore in survival suits and were rescued by the U S Coast Guard cutter Ironwood.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   51 59 N 175 54 W   Chart 16012

Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. Oregonian (November 5, 1978) “Four NW men saved in sinking” Pg 1

 

DEWET (1909)     The 14 ton 36 foot gas screw schooner DeWet burned at Ketchikan October 24, 1909.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 20 30 N 131 38 45 W   Chart 17428

Additional Information: Tonnage 14, Length 36, Breadth 13.4, Depth 5.3, Built 1902 at Blaine WA, Registered Ketchikan, ON 157669

Comment: The DeWet is listed as a 13 ton sailing vessel in 1909 and a 14 ton gas screw in 1910.  WG

Sources: 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg169, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1909) Pg 31, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1910) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 407

DIAJAC (1954)     The 10 ton 30 foot wooden gas screw Diajac burned September 9, 1954 in George Inlet.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 20 N 131 30 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 9 Net, Length 30.3, Breadth 9.6, Depth 4.4, Built 1944 at Ketchikan, Service freight, Horsepower 75, Owner Ottis J Garner, Registered Ketchikan, ON 246958

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1955) Pg 131, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 743

 

DIAMOND C (1930)     The wooden gas screw Diamond C caught fire and exploded while taking fuel at The Union Oil Dock at Wrangell Thursday April 17, 1930 at 4 p.m.  The two man crew could do nothing but cut the vessel adrift from the dock.  The Diamond C was valued at $1,600 with no cargo or insurance.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 28 N 132 22 40 W   Chart 17360

Additional Information: Tonnage 14 Gross 10 Net, Built 1916, Registered Wrangell, ON 214223, Master Carl Christiansen of Juneau, Owner Harry R Coulter of Wrangell

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty file at Wrangell April 18, 1930 by Christiansen

DIAMOND K (1910)     The power schooner Diamond K foundered at Cape Darby near Nome October 10, 1910.  The two prospectors aboard the vessel survived.  The Diamond K and prospecting outfit on board had a value of $3,000 and were a total loss.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   64 19 N 162 47 W   Chart 16200

Sources: 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg180, 2. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 3. Seattle Sunday Times (October 30, 1910) “Nome Power Vessel Wrecked In Storm” Pg 30

DIAMOND L (1915)     The small power schooner Diamond L was crushed in the ice and lost September 21, 1915 along the Siberian Coast.  The vessel had departed Nome for trading along the Siberian Coast.  The cargo had been confiscated by Russian authorities along with one of the crew.  The ice was unusually early and very heavy.

Mapping and Location: Siberian Coast

Source: The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg257

DIANA (1965)     The 8 ton 28 foot wooden gas screw Diana foundered January 6, 1965 in the small boat harbor at Juneau.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 18 15 N 134 24 30 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 5 Net, Length 28.3, Breadth 8.3, Depth 4.3, Built 1935 at Klawock, Horsepower 110, Service freight, Owner L B Keller, Registered Juneau, ON 234077

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 178, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1166

 

DIANA (1965)     The 7 ton 30 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Diana was consumed by fire July 27, 1965 in Taku Inlet.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 12 N 134 06 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross 5 Net, Length 30.3, Breadth 8.9, Depth 4.7, Built 1937 at Kirkland WA, Horsepower 110, SL WC7227, Owner Chris Sundet, Registered Juneau, ON 236261

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 178, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1166

 

DIANA (1966)     The 13 ton 37 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Diana burned August 10, 1966 in Judd Harbor on Duke Island.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   54 53 N 131 16 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information: Tonnage 13 Gross 9 Net, Length 37.6, Breadth 10.9, Depth  4.7, Built 1913 at Tacoma WA, Horsepower 45, SL WJ5331, Registered Port Angeles WA, ON 211767

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 178, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1166

 

DIANE LYNN (1982)     The 29 foot vessel Diane Lynn sank June 4, 1982 off of Hanin Rocks near Kodiak.  The four persons aboard swam to shore and were picked up at Spruce Cape.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 50 05 N 152 18 45 W   Chart 16594

Source: Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak)

 

DIANE O (1981)     The 26 foot fishing vessel Diane O drifted into the surf when her engine failed and broke up October 27, 1981 on the south shore of Nunivak Island.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 N 166 W   Chart 16006

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DIME (1924)     The 12 ton wooden scow Dime was forced onto the beach and crushed by ice at 1:00 a.m. Wednesday June 25, 1924 about a half mile from Golovin on the Golovin Spit.  The two man crew survived but the Dime, valued at $1,400 with no cargo, was destroyed. The following are statements made by H S Chester, master and owner of the vessel:

“Strong NW wind and high tide.”  “The strong northwest wind and very high tide brought the ice ashore during the night and the following morning we found the vessel broken to pieces.”

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   64 35 N 163 10 W   Chart 16200

Additional Information: Built 1917, Registered Nome, ON 167042, Last Port Golovin, Destination White Mountain, Insurance none

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed by Chester July 19, 1924 at Nome

 

DIMITRII (1803)     The Russian transport vessel Dimitrii was wrecked near Umnak October of 1803.  She was on at trip from Okhotsk to Kodiak at the time of the loss.  The crew and cargo were saved but the Dimitrii became a total loss.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   53 16 N 168 13 W   Chart 16500

Source: Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992)

DIOMEDES HERMAN (1882)     The 12.86 ton schooner Diomedes Herman drug anchor in a strong easterly gale November 13, 1882 in Chernabura Harbor in the Shumagin Islands.  The vessel was blown against a steep bluff which tore a hole in her side.  The Diomedes Herman was given up as a complete loss but her cargo of provisions, dry goods and firewood was salvaged.  The two passengers and two crewmembers survived the wreck.  The vessel was valued at $600 and her cargo at $1,000.  She had departed Belkofski October 30 for Chernabura Island.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   54 47 N 159 33 W   Chart 16011

Comment: There is no harbor on Chernabura Island

Source: Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992)

DIRECTOR (1924)     The 18 ton wooden gas screw Director ran aground during a storm at 10:00 p.m. March 2, 1924 on Hinchinbrook Island and was lost.  The crew of 4 had departed Cordova the day before for deep sea fisheries.  Captain George Walley gives this account in the wreck report filed March 6 :

“Strong gale; dark night; snowing.  Wind 80 miles hr. S. E.”  “Were sounding, last depth 20 fathoms, struck before knew where I was.”  “Between Shelter Bay and Bear Point”  “Ran aground in snow storm; heavy sea; blowing SE gale…Storm continuing, broke up.”

“Ga. S Waif stood by 3/4/24 but vessel breaking up….Abandoning wreck, recovering what gear possible.”

The Director was valued at $3,000 and her stores and fuel at $800; both lost no insurance.  The crew survived the accident.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 26 N 146 39 W   Chart 16709

Additional Information: Tonnage 18 Gross 12 Net, Built 1911, Registered at Seattle and Ketchikan, ON 207129, Owner A Soriana of Prince Rupert

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Cordova March 6, 1924

DIRIGO (1914)     The 843 ton 165 foot steam powered schooner Dirigo foundered while in tow of the vessel Cordova off of Cape Spencer November16, 1914.  The crew of 13 was taken aboard the Cordova.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 12 45 N 136 39 30 W   Chart 17300

Comment: Merchant Vessels (1915) has the Dirigo lost 40 miles east of Cape Elias.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 823 Gross 521 Net, Length 165, Breadth 35, Depth 22.5, Service Passenger, Horsepower 600, Built 1898 at Hoquiam WA, Registered Seattle, ON 157502, SL KNGW, Owner Alaska Steamship Co, Rebuilt 1912, Last Port Seward, Destination Puget Sound

Sources: 1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pgs 208&247, 3. Pacific Coastal Liners (1959) Pg 99, 4. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1913) Pg 152, 5. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1915) Pg 422

DISCOVERER (1929)     The oil screw Discoverer stranded 12 miles SW of Gore Point April 5, 1929.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 12 N 150 57 30 W   Chart 16645

Sources: 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 403, 2. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992)

DISCOVERER (1932)     The 38 ton 55 foot oil screw passenger vessel Discoverer foundered at Ninilchik December 23, 1932.  The four persons aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 03 N 151 40 W   Chart 16661

Additional Information: Tonnage 38 Gross 26 Net, Length 55.4, Breadth 14, Depth 6.6, Built 1914 at Seabeck WA, Brake Horsepower 60, Owner Heinie Berger, Registered Seward, ON

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1933) Vessels Reported Lost Pg 989, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1932) Pgs 284-5, 3. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg419

DISCOVERER (1969)     The passenger and freight boat Discoverer was driven ashore and lost after suffering engine failure July 21, 1969 in Cordova Bay off of Sukkwan Island.  All those on board escaped to the beach.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 06 N 132 46 W   Chart 17400

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DISCOVERY (1903)     The 209 ton wood steamer Discovery is “supposed to have been lost during the night of November 1, 1903.”  The vessel departed Yakutat November 1, 1903 with about 14 passengers and about 16 crewmembers.  She was never heard from again.  The following are excerpts from the wreck report filed at Port Townsend, Washington by B Hasting, President of the Discovery Transportation Company who owned the Discovery:

“Supposed to be between Yakutat and Cross Sound.”   “Supposed to have foundered.  Heavy gale from ENE with southeast & southwest cross sea running. Wind 60 mi.; dark night”

“Revenue Cutter Rush was sent from Sitka after some weeks, but found no tidings.  Since then report comes of Indians finding hull of vessel.  This has not been confirmed.  Parties coming from Cape Yakataga to Kayak, in November report finding doors, windows, and broken parts of steamers house on beach, also life preservers marked Str Discovery.  This is same way the Discovery life preservers were marked.”

“We are convinced the Discovery is lost with all hands on board.  The exact time and how the accident occurred will never be known.”

According to the wreck report, along with the Discovery an estimated 30 passengers and crew were lost including J W McGrath, Charles Mokler, Ed Nord, Guy Trolford, Ed Van Dice, R Price, Christ Judson, — Shady, A Dergin, William Dangerfield, Albert R Cassell, Robert Carlson, — Hans; Joe Birry and wife, Captain Seabery and George Powell.  The Discovery was valued at $24,000 at the time of the loss and was insured for $12,000.

Other reports of the fate of the Discovery state that all but one of the passengers who had started with the vessel at Nome, had quit the trip at Unga, Kodiak and Valdez claiming that the Discovery was not seaworthy.  The remaining 26 persons aboard, mostly crew, were lost with the vessel somewhere between Middleton Island and Cross Sound. One questionable report from a claimed survivor has the vessel striking an iceberg at Cross Sound.  The cabin of the Discovery was reported found in August of 1904, storm ravaged and buried in beach sand on Middleton Island.

A second more credible report was published a year after the disappearance. Chief John of the Lituya Bay Native Tribe was said to have witnessed the loss of the Discovery the afternoon of November 2, 1903 outside of Lituya Bay. His story did not reach the south until late the following year. According to a credible source, the Chief watched as the Discovery attempted to enter the bay but the waterlogged vessel seemed out of control. After an hour or so the steamer was said to have gone down in the stormy seas with no chance for survivors. She was last seen attempting to round the point on the southern side of Lituya Bay.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 32 30 N 139 51 30 W   Chart 16760

Additional Information: Tonnage 209 Gross 111 Net, Length 90, Built 1889, Registered  Port Townsend Washington, ON 157263, Master M R Walters of Port Townsend, Last Port Yakutat November 1, 1903, Destination Port Townsend via Cross Sound

Sources: 1. U S Customs Wreck Report January 22, 1904, 2. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 3. Daily Alaska Dispatch (August 5, 1904) “Discovery Wreck Found” Front Page, 4. Morning Olympian (October 6, 1904) “Saw Discovery Sink in Stream” Pgs 1&3

DISCOVERY (1926)     The 17 ton wooden gas screw fishing vessel Discovery hit a rock in Chatham Straits on the morning of August 4, 1926 and sank.  The crew of four survived the casualty but the Discovery valued at $3,000 was lost along with 10 tons ($800 worth) of fresh caught salmon.  The rock that punched the hole in the Discovery was said to be “On Kingamill shore…Chatham Strait.”

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 50 N 134 25 10 W   Chart 17368

Comment: Probably Kingsmill Point on NW Kuiu Island. WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 17 Gross 11 Net, Age 15 years, Registered Seattle, ON 208681, Master Frank Rose of Kake, Owner Fidalgo Island Packing of Anacortes Washington

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed Sept 29, 1926 signed by W J Hansen secretary for the owners. 

DISCOVERY (1991)     The 97 foot crab fishing vessel Discovery developed a starboard list, capsized and sank October 8, 1991 southwest of the Queen Charlotte Islands.  The vessel was on her way from Washington State to the Bering Sea with 130 crab pots on deck and five crewmembers on board.  Two of the three crab tanks of the Discovery were being kept pumped out during the trip north. Instability caused by the flooding of one or both of the empty tanks was thought to be the cause of the disaster. When the Discovery rolled to starboard and began to capsize, the crew abandoned ship in survival suits. The life raft self deployed and they swam to it. The entire crew was rescued October 19, 1991 by the fishing vessel Ocean Viking after surviving 11 days in the life raft. The May-Day broadcast by the crew of the Discovery was not heard and the EPIRB did not function after it was deployed. The crew was fortunate to have been discovered.

Mapping and Location: British Columbia

Additional Information: ON 596816

Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. USCG MISLE Case # 934091

 

DISPATCH (1890)     The 10.27 ton wood steamer Dispatch dragged anchor in a storm, blew ashore and was wrecked January 22, 1890.  The casualty occurred on the east shore of Seymour Canal On Admiralty Island, 15 miles NW of the mouth of the canal.  None of the three crew were lost but the Dispatch, valued at $4,500 was damaged to the tune of $3,000.  She was towing a barge from Juneau, having left December 9, 1889.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 32 N 133 50 W   Chart 17300

Sources:  1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. Lewis and Dryden’s Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1895/1961) Pg 383

DIT OUT (1985)     The fiberglass boat Dit Out was lost when her engine exploded July 23, 1985 just off of the Homer Harbor fuel dock.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 37 N 151 27 W   Chart 16640

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DIVEMASTER (1996)     The 30 foot steel fishing vessel Divemaster struck a submerged object and sank July 4, 1996 approximately 20 miles south of Wrangell.  The only person aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 28 N 132 22 40 W   Chart 17360

Additional Information: ON 631603

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

 

DIXIE (1950)     The 10 ton 34 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Dixie stranded and was lost November 15, 1950 near Cape Cross in the Gulf of Alaska. Owner Fred Wetche, his 14 year old son Fred Jr. and Helvig “Chris” Christensen were returning to Pelican from a hunting trip when heavy weather forced them into the rocks near Cape Bingham on the north end of Yakobi Island. Only Christensen survived hanging on to Yakobi Rock. He was rescued barely alive two days later by Pelican residents Tom Allain (34), Betty Mork (15) and Marie Mork (13) who found him still clinging to Yakobi Rock. The three rescuers received the U S Coast Guard Meritorious Service Award for their harrowing rescue of Christensen using a 32 foot vessel poorly equipped for the task.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 55 N 136 33 30 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 7 Net, Length 34.4, Breadth 10.2, Depth 5, Built 1925 at Houghton WA, Horsepower 100, Owner Fred A Wetche, Registered Juneau, ON 224682

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 180, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1166, 3. Daily Sitka Sentinel (September 26, 2011) “U S Coast Guard, State Troopers honor Sitka woman for 1950 shipwreck rescue”

 

DIXIE (1962)     The 8 ton 30 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Dixie foundered September 7, 1962 in Kasaan Bay.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 24 N 132 06 W Chart 17420

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 5 Net, Length 30.8, Breadth 9.3, Depth 4.3, Built 1919 at Tacoma WA, Horsepower 110, Owner Jacob Thomas, Registered Ketchikan, ON 218521

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) Pg 159, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 930

 

DOLCE VITA (2005)     The fishing vessel Dolce Vita was consumed by a fire that resulted from a shorted out coffee maker. The one person aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: Alaska   Unknown

Source: Michael Burwell BOEM Shipwreck List additions (2013)

 

DOLORES (1992)     The 28 foot salmon seiner Dolores became disabled in heavy seas and sank May 25, 1992 in Strawberry Channel.  Both crewmembers were lifted to safety by a U S Coast Guard Helicopter.

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

Additional Information: ON AK5160K

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

 

DOLPHIN (1914)     The 16 ton 45 foot gas screw fishing steamer Dolphin foundered at Active Pass on February 12, 1914.  The three persons aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: Unknown probably British Columbia

Comment: The wreck location given in the 1914 Merchant Vessel Losses is Active Pass, Alaska.  The only Active Pass I am aware of is the narrow passage separating Mayne Island and Galiano Island in British Columbia.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 16 Gross 11 Net, Length 45, Breadth 12.1, Depth 4.1, Built 1907 at Tacoma WA, Registered Tacoma, ON 204794

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1914) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 428, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1913) Pg 154

DOLPHIN (1977)     The 38 ton 41 foot steel oil screw fishing vessel Dolphin foundered November 11, 1977 in Marmot Bay, Kodiak Island.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 N 152 06 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 25 Net, Length 41.6, Breadth 14.5, Depth 8.5, Built 1964 at Tacoma WA, Former Name Dorotha Louise, ON 295395

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Dorotha Louise” Pg 188, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 2241

 

DOMINION (1998)     The 66 foot salmon seiner Dominion capsized and sank January 26, 1998 in the Shelikof Strait off of Cape Karluk.  A bin board broke allowing the catch to shift causing the disaster.  All three crewmembers aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 35 10 N 154 30 50 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: ON 620062

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

 

DONA S (1964)     The 106 ton 70 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Dona S foundered off of Baranof Island May 10, 1964.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 45 N 135 10 W   Chart 16016

Additional Information: Tonnage 106 Gross 102 Net, Length 70.4, Breadth 20.5, Depth 9.6, Built 1937 at Seattle, SL WB 4099, ON 236462

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) Pg 898, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) Pg 169

 

DONBASS (1946)     The 10,488 ton Russian tanker (lend/lease ship) Donbass broke in two in a storm February 17, 1946 approximately 40 miles south of Adak.  The front half of the ship was located by three Russian rescue ships who removed 15 survivors and much of the ship’s stores.  The aft section of the ship was located and assisted by the American tanker Puente Hills who removed 23 Russian crewmen and women before towing the stern of the Donbass to Port Angeles with another 20 Russian sailors still aboard.  Both sections were eventually scrapped.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   51 52 N 176 39 W   Chart 16012

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Oregonian (February 26, 1946) “Crew Rescued From Pacific” Pg 1, 3. Seattle Daily Times (March 22, 1946) “What’ll We Do With Donbass” Pg 7

 

DONNA ANN (2003)     The 58 foot wooden fishing vessel Donna Ann drug anchor and washed up on the beach at 2:40 a.m. August 20, 2003 in Tanglefoot Bay near Karluk. The crew abandoned ship and walked to Karluk.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 34 30 N 154 29 30 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 47 Gross 32 Net, Length 49.7, Breadth 16.2, Depth 8.2, Built 1947 Seattle WA, SL WB3588, ON 252018, Former name Tasmania

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg684, 2. ADEC Incident Report (August 20, 2003)

 

DONNA B (1992)     The 33 foot fishing vessel Donna B capsized and sank July 21, 1992 at the entrance to the Kenai River.  The five adults and infant that were on board all made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 33 N 151 16 W   Chart 16660

Additional Information: ON 557618

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

 

DONNA LEE (1954)     The 8 ton 29 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Donna Lee foundered July 16, 1954 off of Kalgin Island in Cook Inlet.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 28 N 151 55 W   Chart 16660

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 6 Net, Length 29.2, Breadth 8.8, Depth 3.9, Built 1939 at Bellingham WA, Horsepower 85, Owner Charles S Wells, Registered Juneau, ON 252234

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1955) Pg 137, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 743

 

DONNA R (1973)     The fishing vessel Donna R flooded and was lost January 1, 1973 in Port Etches, Prince William Sound.  The vessel had a full load of fish and was waiting for a tender when she took on so much water that the crew couldn’t save her.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 20 N 146 37 W   Chart 16700

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DONNIE (1964)     The 8 ton 28 foot wooden gas powered fishing vessel Donnie was destroyed by the earthquake and tidal wave of March 27, 1964 at Seward.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 06 30 N 149 26 30 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 6 Net, Length 28.6, Breadth 10.1, Depth 3.8, Built 1952 at Seattle, SL WJ3089, ON 263557

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) Pg 898, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) Pg 171

 

DONNY BOY (1982)     The fish tender Donny Boy grounded in high winds and was lost June 27, 1982 off of Castle Cape near Chignik.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 10 N 158 20 W   Chart 16011

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DORA (1920)     The 320 ton wood steamer Dora stranded at Noble Island, British Columbia December 20, 1920 and was lost.  The crew of 29 survived the accident but the Dora, valued at $20,000 and her $30,000 cargo of general merchandise was lost.  The Dora had departed Seattle December 17 bound for Unga and way ports.

Mapping and Location: British Columbia

Additional Information: Tonnage 320 Gross 217 Net, Built 1880, Registration Port Townsend Washington, ON 157000, Master Fred A Hovick of Seattle, Owner Bering Sea Fisheries Co

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Seattle by Novick December 28, 1920

DORA B (1900)     The small schooner Dora B broke her towline April 15, 1900 while being towed by the steamer Excelsior. They were at the entrance to Lituya Bay when the line parted and the Dora B was never heard from again.  There were five persons aboard and a load of supplies bound for Lituya Bay miners.  Lost with the schooner were Peter VanBuerden, Frank Rankin, George Cannon, a Japanese cook and an unknown miner.  Wreckage was sighted outside of Yakutat and one body recovered.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 36 45 N 137 39 30 W   Chart 16760

Sources: 1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. Seattle Daily Times (May 7, 1900) “Further News of the Unfortunate Drowning of Crew of the Schooner Dora B” Pg 8

DORA H (1991)     The 53 foot halibut longliner Dora H sank May 9, 1991 off of Chirikof Island.  The crew was halibut fishing when the vessel began to take on water.  They were unable to release their old life raft from its bracket but had a new life raft on board that was still in its crate.  The four crewmembers struggled with the new raft in the water for over an hour before it was properly deployed.  They were all rescued.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 50 N 155 37 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: ON 209544

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

 

DORA R (1972)     The 60 foot purse seine fishing vessel Dora R foundered in Peril Strait 75 miles south of Juneau November 19, 1972.  Ronald Hanson, skipper of the vessel was “plucked out of the water” by a helicopter crew and taken to a hospital with extreme exposure.  Crewmembers James Pope and Ray Roybal were lost with the Dora R.

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

Source: Seattle Daily Times (November 20, 1972) “Seattle boat sinks; Two men drown” Pg 62

 

DORIS (1952)     The 7 ton 32 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Doris burned September 19, 1952 halfway between Neva Strait and Olga Strait.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 13 40 N 135 32 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross 6 Net, Length 32.5, Breadth 9.1, Depth 4.2, Built 1919 at Colby WA, Horsepower 110. Owner Robert B Wik, Registered Juneau, ON 218339

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1952) Pg 143, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1953-1954) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 744

 

DOROTHY (1943)     The 42 ton 50 foot wooden scow Dorothy foundered January 10, 1943 at Fort Glenn.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska 53 24 N 167 53 W   Chart 16513

Comment: Fort Glenn military reservation on NE end of Umnak Island does not show on many charts.  The 60 foot wooden scow C I P No 1 founders at about the same location a month later.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 42 Gross and Net, Length 50, Breadth 18, Depth 4.5, Built 1939 at Seattle, Owner Jack Anderson, Registered Cordova, ON 174352

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1945) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 774, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1944) Pg 353

DOROTHY (1967)     The gas screw Dorothy foundered November 23, 1967 off of Hemlock Island.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 09 40 N 131 33 45 W   Chart 17420

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DOROTHY H (1963)     The 8 ton 27 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Dorothy H was consumed by fire July 9, 1963 at Chignik Lagoon.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 20 N 158 29 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 7 Net, Length 27, Breadth 10.9, Depth 4, Built 1952 at Seldovia, Horsepower 110, SL WR4332, Owner Alaska Packers Association, Registered Juneau, ON 263603

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) Pg 173, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 963

 

DORTHY M (1938)     The 11 ton 35 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Dorothy M caught fire from an engine backfire at 9:00 a.m. March 14, 1939 at Meyers Chuck.  Eight Pyrene cans were emptied in an attempt to extinguish the blaze.  Crewman Bill Hansen shot a hole in the vessel with a shotgun and sunk her.  Chris Lading Jr., master of the Dorothy M and crewmen Hansen escaped unharmed.  The vessel, valued at $2,000 and insured for $1,000 was later salvaged.  Damage was estimated to be only $400.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 44 30 N 132 15 15 W   Chart 17423

Additional Information: Tonnage 11 Gross 9 Net, Length 35, Breadth 10.2, Depth 4.3, Built 1921 , Horsepower 40, Owners Clyde W Henley and Walter Brandt, Last Port Wrangell October 31, 1938, Destination Meyers Chuck, Registered Ketchikan, ON 221146

Sources: 1. U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty March 20, 1939 by Lading, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1938) Pg 135

 

DOT (1957)     The 15 ton 38 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Dot was consumed by fire December 3, 1957 at Craig.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 15 Gross 12 Net, Length 37.9, Breadth 10.5, Depth 4.6, Built 1919 at Arietta WA, Horsepower 115, Owner Austin J Scott, Registered Wrangell, ON 218133

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1958) Pg 148, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1959) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 800

 

DOTTY G (1984)     The seiner Dotty G capsized and sank while at anchor November 20, 1984 in Zaikof Bay on Montague Island.  Winds were blowing at 90 knots when the vessel flipped.  Daryl D. Dickenson (13) was lost.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 19 N 146 58 W   Chart 16700

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Daily Sitka Sentinel (November 23, 1984) “After Capsizing Boy Dies In Boat” Pg 5

 

DOUBLE KNOT (1950)     The 15 ton 34 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Double Knot stranded and was lost May 24, 1950, 15 miles east of Cape Saint Elias.  Richard Albert Drisner (24) of Milwaukee OR was lost with the vessel.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 54 N 144 36 W   Chart 16016

Comment: This vessel is salvaged, put back into service and sinks again in 1973.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 15 Gross 13 Net, Length 34.1, Breadth 12, Depth 4.5, Built 1947 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 143, Owner O L Grimes, Registered Juneau, ON 254470

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1950) Pg 141, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1951) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 937, 3. The Oregonian (June 29, 1950) “Oregon Man’s Body Found” Pg 6

 

DOUBLE KNOT (1973)     The 15 ton 34 foot wooden oil screw Double Knot disappeared with all hands March 27, 1973 near Nuka Bay, 60 miles south of Seward.  The cause and exact location where the Double Knot and her four crewmembers were lost is not known.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 19 N 150 33 W   Chart 16680

Additional Information: Tonnage 15 Gross 13 Net, Length 34.1, Breadth 12, Depth 4.5, Built 1947 at Seattle WA, ON 254470

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 190, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1976) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1869

 

DOVE (1920)     The 26 ton 48 foot gas screw Dove stranded and was lost at Cape Ommaney March 15, 1920.  Two of the five persons aboard perished in the disaster.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 10 N 134 40 20 W   Chart 17360

Additional Information: Tonnage 26 Gross 20 Net, Length 48.7, Breadth 13.7, Depth 5.6, IHP 25, Service freight, Built 1917 at Anacortes WA, Registered Seattle, ON 215123

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1921) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 454, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1919) Pg 222, 3. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 313

DOVE (1998)     The 30 foot salmon gillnetter Dove capsized in the surf and was lost June 2, 1998 off of the Kokinhenik Bar in the Copper River Flats.  The only person aboard was lost.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 18 30 N 145 05 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: ON 643875

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

 

DOWNEASTER (1986)     The fishing vessel Downeaster flooded and sank June 1, 1986 between Eldred Rock and Sullivan Island in Lynn Canal.  Both crewmembers escaped to a raft and were picked up by the fishing vessel Genevieve.

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

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DR MARTIN (1926)     A break in the exhaust line caused a fire aboard the Dr Martin Sunday May 23, 1926 on the bank of the Yukon River near Paimiute.  The crew of six managed to beach the vessel and escape but the Dr Martin became a total loss.  They had departed Fortuna Ledge (Marshall), May 23, 1926 bound for Holy Cross.  The Dr Martin was valued at $16,000 at the time of the loss and her cargo of ship stores and repairs at $300.

Mapping and Location: Central Alaska   58 N 160 14 W

Additional Information: Tonnage 28 Gross 24 Net, Built 1917, Registered Seward, ON 215793, Master Wm F Hoelscher of St Michael, Owner Nor Comcl Co of St Michael, Insurance unknown

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Seward by master June 11, 1924

DREADNAUGHT (1930)     The gas screw wood vessel Dreadnaught broke a plank in rough seas Wednesday June 1, 1930 at 10:00 a.m. and sank.  The crew of two made it to safety but the vessel, valued at $1,000 with no cargo or insurance was lost.  The report of casualty filed by the master of the Dreadnaught lists the location of the casualty as “other side Kletachekoff Island, near Leo’s Anchorage, Chichagoff Island.”

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 25 20 N 135 51 30 W   Chart 17320

Comment: Probably Klokachef Island opposite Leo Anchorage. WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 6 Net, Age about 30 years, Registered Sitka, ON 213620, Owner/master Lester Boyd of Sitka

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed March 25, 1930 at Sitka

DREAM GIRL (1967)     The 14 ton 35 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Dream Girl burned July 23, 1967 at False Pass.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   54 51 15 N 163 24 30 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: Tonnage 14 Gross 10 Net, Length 35.3, Breadth 12, Depth 4.4, Built 1950 at Ikatan, Horsepower 43, SL WD3744, Owner Peter Pan Seafood, Registered Juneau, ON 260679

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 191, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1166

 

DREAMER (1925)     The wooden gas screw Dreamer caught fire and became a total loss Sunday August 2, 1925 at 1:50 p.m. at Gravina Island opposite Peninsula Point.  Wallace W Noyes, owner and master of the vessel was the only one aboard at the time of the loss.  The following are statements from the report he filed with the Coast Guard at Ketchikan August 11, 1925:

“Gravina Island opposite Peninsula Point Revilegagedo Island…burning…Fire from Delco Light Plant.”  “Mr Scrimsher and son of Ketchikan and the deck hand tried to put fire out but unsuccessful.”  “Before fire was noticed it had too much of a start to put out with the fire fighting apparatus carried on board.”

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 23 N 131 44 W   Chart 17428

Additional Information: Tonnage 23, Age nine years, Registered Ketchikan, ON 214496, Last Port Ketchikan, Destination Gravina Island, Vessel Value $6,000 no cargo, Insurance $5,000

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty August 11, 1925

DRIFT (1967)     The 12 ton 39 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Drift was consumed by fire July 20, 1967 at Slaughterhouse Cove in Dixon Harbor.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 20 15 N 136 52 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross 8 Net, Length 39.4, Breadth 11.5, Depth 4.5, Built 1909 at Everett WA, Horsepower 125, SL WK6777, Registered Port Townsend WA, ON 206432

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 192, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1166

 

DRY HEAT (2001)     The 32 foot pleasure vessel Dry Heat burned and sank July 22, 2001 near Streets Island 10 miles west of Ketchikan.  Four adults and five children abandoned ship to the icy waters.  The vessels Show Girl and Sheltered Seas responded to the distress call and rescued all nine.  The Dry Heat sank in 200 fathoms of water.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 28 40 N 132 08 15 W   Chart 17420

Source: U S C G District 17 News Release (July 23, 2001) “Boat blaze sends nine boaters into water”

 

DUBROVNIK (1948)     The 31 ton 49 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Dubrovnik burned September 20, 1948 at Klawock.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 33 15 N 133 05 45 W   Chart 17400

Additional Information: Tonnage 31 Gross 24 Net, Length 49, Breadth 13.9, Depth 6.5, Built 1915 at Seattle WA, Crew 6, Horsepower 40, Owner Bob Peratovich, Registered Juneau, ON 213266

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1948) Pg 133, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1955) “Vessels Subject to Removal” Pg 569

 

DUCHESS (1996)     The 79 foot wooden fishing vessel Duchess caught fire near Spruce Cape the evening of April 15, 1996. The three crewmembers were airlifted from the burning vessel by a helicopter from U S Coast Guard Kodiak Air Station. The Coast Guard cutter Storis responded and attempted to fight the fire but high winds and heavy seas hampered their efforts. The tug Chenaille Rouge arrived on scene and took the Duchess in tow but the vessel capsized and parted the towline. On April 17, 1996 the flooded Duchess grounded on Spruce Island and became a total loss.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 55 N 152 25 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 142 Gross 120 Net, Length 79, Breadth 25.9, Depth 7.7, Built 1941 Seattle WA, ON 240529, Call Sign WA4402

Sources: 1. USCG MISLE Case # 74493, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) Pg 440

 

DUCK (1964)     The barge Duck was destroyed by a tidal wave March 27, 1964 at Cordova.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 33 N 145 45 W   Chart 16700

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DUCK (1976)     The converted military landing craft Duck struck a submerged log and sank July 25, 1976 near Saint Marys Point just north of Ketchikan.  The vessel had been converted to a house boat and a family was travelling north up the inside passage when the disaster occurred.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 44 N 135 01 15 W   Chart 17300

Comment: Point Saint Mary just north of Juneau?  WG

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

DUCKLAND (1922)     It was 2:00 a.m. Sunday October 29, 1922 when the 42 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Duckland drug anchor and stranded with two persons aboard.  The Duckland’s master and owner, Peter Beaudrie and his only crewman were able to escape, but the Duckland, valued at $1,200 became a total loss.  Beaudrie had left Wrangell on the 22^nd and was “cruising for timber”.  The casualty occurred at the mouth of Anita By on the NE coast of Etolin Island.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 14 N 132 23 W   Chart 17382

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 7 Net, Length 42, Breadth 9, Depth 4, Built 1908 at Wrangell, Registration Wrangell, ON 205277

Sources: 1. U S Customs Wreck Report, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1922) Pg 222

DUE NORTH (1980)     The 58 foot fishing vessel Due North drug anchor and stranded October 6, 1980 in Alitak Bay.  The crew was able to jump from the vessel to shore when the tide went out.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 50 N 154 10 W   Chart 16580

Source: Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak)

 

DULCINEA (1956)     The 622 ton 166 foot steel oil screw tanker Dulcinea stranded and was lost October 9, 1956 on Buldir Island in the Aleutian Islands.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   52 21 N 175 56 E   Chart 16012

Additional Information: Tonnage 622 Gross 410 Net, Length 166.5, Breadth 32, Depth 15, Built 1944 at Portland OR, Former Name  YO-124 (U S N), Horsepower 560, SL WD8402, Owner Pacific Navigation Inc., Registered Seattle, ON 262672

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) Pg 145, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1957) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 756

 

DUPOCO II (1942)     The 8 ton 31 foot wooden gas screw Dupoco II burned at Juneau January 14, 1942.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 18 15 N 134 24 30 W   Chart 17300

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 6 Net, Length 30.9, Breadth 9.3, Depth 5.1, Built 1933 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 40, Owner E I Du Pont de Nemours & Company of Delaware, Registered Juneau, ON 232353

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1943) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 754, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1942) Pg 124

DUPONT (1961)     The 71 ton 59 foot wooden oil screw Dupont foundered July 8, 1961 approximately one mile south of Cape Suckling.  All three crew members were removed safely by the tug Barbara Foss.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 59 30 N 143 53 W   Chart 16016

Additional Information: Tonnage 71 Gross 48 Net, Length 59.8, Breadth 18.1, Depth 8.6, Built 1930 at Seattle WA, Service freight, Horsepower 150, SL WC551, Owner I E DuPont de Nemours & Company, Registered Seattle, ON 230080

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1959) Pg 154, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 903, 3. Seattle Sunday Times (July 9, 1961) “Disabled Seattle Ship Sinks Off Alaska” Pg 19

 

DURI (1941)     The 10 ton 36 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Duri stranded and was lost on Biorka Island near Sitka February 4, 1941.  The two persons aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 51 N 135 32 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross 8 Net, Length 36.4, Breadth 9.7, Depth 4.6, Built 1939 at Ketchikan, Horsepower 50, Owner Olal Sela, Registered Ketchikan, ON 239094

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1942) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 510, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1941) Pg 127

DUSTY DIAMOND (1900)     The 75 foot wooden stern wheel steamer Dusty Diamond drug anchor in a gale to the north end of Golovin Bay and was lost September 12, 1900.  The crew of 6 escaped the wreck, but the Dusty Diamond, valued at $2,000 became a total loss.  There was no cargo and no insurance on the vessel.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   64 24 N 163 W   Chart 16006

Additional Information: Length 75, Breadth 17, Depth 4, Tonnage  101 Gross, Built 1898 at St Michael, Registration St Michael, ON 157522, Master W C Cary, Owner Alaska Exploration Co of San Francisco, Last Port Chenik, Destination Golovin

Source: Wreck Report filed at St Michael by I N Hibbard, Agent of Owner July 18, 1901

DUTCHESS (1992)     The 79 foot fishing vessel Dutchess sank near Uganik Bay in the Shelikof Strait May 17, 1992.  A four persons aboard were rescued.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 50 N 153 32 W   Chart 16580

Comment: This vessel may have been towed into Port Bailey and salvaged.  WG

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

 

DUTCHESS (1996)     *See Duchess (1996)

 

DUXBURY (1925)     The wooden gas screw Duxbury was crushed in the ice and lost June 5, 1925 about a half a mile NE of Cape Halkett.  The crew of six escaped but the Duxbury, valued at $5,000 and her 30 ton cargo of general merchandise became a total loss.

Mapping and Location: Northern Alaska   70 48 10 N 152 11 05 W   Chart 16003

Additional Information: Tonnage 38 Gross 28 Net, Built 1896, Registered Seattle, ON 157456, Master C K Larson, Owner Nome Navigation Co, Last Port Pt Barrow June 1, Destination east of Pt Barrow

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Nome August 10, 1927 by George D Schofield Attorney and Agent for Owners

DYLAN’S DREAM (1994)     The 50 foot salmon seiner Dylan’s Dream was consumed by fire August 4, 1994 in Izhut Bay, Afognak Island.  The five crewmembers abandoned the vessel in a skiff and were rescued by the fishing vessel Cape Lookout.  The Cape Lookout took the Dylan’s Dream under tow but the vessel burned to the waterline and became a complete loss.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 11 N 152 15 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: ON 968176

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

 

DYNAMITE KID (1964)     The 33 ton 50 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Dynamite Kid foundered May 4, 1964 about 16 miles off of Point Pogibshi in Cook Inlet.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 25 30 N 151 53 W   Chart 16640

Additional Information: Tonnage 33 Gross 26 Net, Length 50.1, Breadth 12.8, Depth 7.1, Built 1932 at Bremerton WA, Horsepower 80, SL WC7536, Owner Port Chatham Packing Company, Registered Juneau, ON 259660

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 195, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1166