Alaska Shipwrecks (K)

ABBREVIATIONS:  AluminumALBritish ColumbiaBCCentralCFiberglassFRPFishing VesselFVIndicated Horse PowerIHPLongliner-LLMotor VesselMVNorthNOfficial NumberONRevenue Cutter ServiceRCSSchoonerSchSignal LettersSLSouth CentralSCSoutheastSESouthwestSWSteel oil screwSOSSteam ShipSSUnknownUUnited States ArmyUSAUnited States Coast GuardUSCGUnited States NavyUSNWestcentralWCWood gas screwWGSWood oil screwWOS

K #4 (1913)     The 15 ton wood scow K #4 broke loose from her moorings and stranded at N Clock Point,  S.E. Alaska at 3 a.m. July 15, 1913.  She was reported as a total loss, no cargo.  The K #4 was valued at $800 and owned by the Kasaan Co. of Kasaan.  There was no insurance.  Conditions at the time were “heavy S.E. winds, 3 a.m. daylight.”

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   Unknown

Additional Information: Tonnage 15, Built Ketchikan 1911, Registered Ketchikan, ON 164447, Master A E Wadhams of Kasaan

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed July 15, 1913 by Wadhams

K 9 (1969)     The gas screw K 9 was destroyed by a storm July 10, 1969 off of Cape Greig, Bristol Bay.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 43 30 N 157 41 30 W   Chart 16006

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

K #12 (1942)     The 37 ton 53 foot scow K #12 foundered May 27, 1942 eight miles west of Cape Saint Elias.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 37 Gross and Net, Length 53.6, Breadth 18, Depth 4.5, Built 1925 at Houghton WA, Owner Pacific American Fisheries, Registered Seattle, ON 169151

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1943) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 755, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1942) Pg 366

K F C 6 (1964)     The 9 ton 30 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel K F C 6 was reported lost at Kodiak in the Good Friday earthquake of March 27, 1964.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 9 Gross 6 Net, Length 30, Breadth 11, Depth 3.9, Built 1944 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 105, SL WB4720, Owner Kadiak Fisheries Company, Registered Ketchikan, ON 245315

Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 336

 

K F C 127 (1964)     The 8 ton 27 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel K F C 127 was destroyed by a tidal wave March 27, 1964 on Kodiak Island.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 5 Net, Length 27.5, Breadth 10.9, Depth 4.3, Built 1944 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 64, Owner Kadiak Fisheries Company, Registered Ketchikan, ON 249056

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) Pg 336, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1004

 

K F C NO 1 (1946)     The 125 ton barge K F C No 1 foundered May 9, 1946 at Point Gore.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 12 N 150 57 30 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: Tonnage 125 Gross and Net, Built 1946, ON 176590

Source: Merchant Vessels of the U S (1947) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 823

K-JO (1985)     The 34 foot fishing vessel K-Jo sank January 14, 1985 off of Marmot Island.  Two men from the vessel were rescued two days later.  The third, Jon Early from Kodiak was lost.

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)

 

K P NO 2 (1975)     The 62 ton 65 foot wooden barge K P No 2 was lost February 11, 1975 off of Vank Island, 14 miles west of Wrangell.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 28 N 132 36 W   Chart 17360

Additional Information: Tonnage 62 Gross and Net, Length 65, Breadth 22.3, Depth 5, Built 1945 at Everett WA, ON 176239

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 349, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1976) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1870

 

K L (1980)     The fishing vessel K R flooded and sank April 27, 1980 west of Cape Ommaney.  All 14 crewmembers were rescued.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 10 N 134 40 20 W   Chart 17320

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

K R CO #1 (1940)     The 12 ton 32 foot scow K R Co #1 foundered February of 1940 in Nazal Bay, Atka Island.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   52 12 N 174 06 W   Chart 16012

Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross and Net, Length 32.6, Breadth 12, Depth 3.8, Built 1929 at Seattle WA, Owner Kanaga Ranching Company, Registered Unalaska, ON 170233

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1943) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 755, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1942) Pg 366

K S T NO 1 (1958)     The 63 ton 60 foot wooden scow K S M No 1 foundered December 20, 1958 in Kindricks (Kendrick) Bay.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   54 51 15 N 131 58 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information: Tonnage 63 Gross and Net, Length 60, Breadth 24, Depth 5.2, Built 1943 at Gig Harbor WA, Owner Island Service Inc., Registered Ketchikan, ON 251060

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1960) Pg 292, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1961) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 861

 

K T (1937)     The 8 ton wooden gas screw K T stranded and foundered two miles west of Lazaria Island in Sitka Sound at 4:00 p.m. Thursday September 9, 1937.  Master and owner Earl B Prim of Sitka was trolling when the accident happened, and the only one aboard.  A line got caught in the propeller with SE winds at 50 miles an hour pushing heavy seas.  Prim “tried to clear rope in propeller, also drop anchor but line broke.”  The vessel was a total loss with no insurance.  The value of the K T was $1,000.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 N 135 30 W   Chart 17326

Comment: Unable to locate Lazaria Island mentioned in casualty report. WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 6 Net, Age 25 years, Registered Sitka, ON 232136, Last Port Sitka September 8, 1937

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed September 11, 1937 at Sitka by Prim

K T (1990)     The 65 foot wooden converted ferry fishing vessel K T became disabled, flooded and sank March 9, 1990 at McLean Point.  All three crewmembers were rescued by the tug Simpson.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   54 47 30 N 131 57 15 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information: 222253

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

K V KRUSE (1941)     The 240 foot Canadian log barge K V Kruse stranded and was lost January 28, 1941 in Cordova Bay east of Long Island.  The former five masted schooner broke loose in foul weather from the tug LaPoint January 26th while on a trip to pick up airplane spruce (for building airplanes) in the Queen Charlotte Islands.  She drifted 125 miles north and was discovered wrecked by the U S Coast Guard in early February.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   54 56 N 132 38 W   Chart 17420

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KACHEMAK LADY (1989)     The fishing vessel Kachemak Lady sank April 27, 1989 off of Chugach Island.  All crewmembers made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 07 N 151 40 W   Chart 16680

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KACHOSAN MARU (1942)     The 2,427 ton Japanese army cargo ship Kachosan Maru was sunk by an attack of U S B-26 aircraft November 27, 1942 at Attu.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   52 56 25 N 173 15 E   Chart 16012

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KADYAK (1860)     The 500 ton ship Kadyak (Kadiak) struck a rock off of Woody Island near Kodiak and sank in Monk’s Lagoon on Spruce Island nearby, March 30, 1860.  The vessel was carrying 356 tons of ice bound for San Francisco when it sank in 70 feet of water.  She was owned by the Russian-American Trading Company of San Francisco.  The Kadyak was found in 2003 and the site surveyed in 2004.  The wreck site has been called “Alaska’s first underwater archeology project” and oldest shipwreck discovered in the state to date.  The Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, Office of History and Archeology has a detailed description of the history, discovery and exploration of the Kadyak wreck site online.

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

Sources:  1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. BOEMRE Shipwreck List (2011)

KAHILTNA II (1987)     The 47 foot halibut fishing vessel Kahiltna II sank May 5, 1987 approximately 55 miles from Cape Resurrection.  All five crewmembers were picked up from a raft by the fishing vessel Sea Scape and taken to Cordova.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 52 N 149 17 W   Chart 16680

Comment: F/V Chabro sank same day same area also fishing halibut.  WG

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KAISEI MARU (1909)     The Japanese sealing ship Kaisei Maru was seized for illegal seal hunting in 1909 or 1910 and impounded in Sealing Cove on Japonski Island.  The vessel slowly became waterlogged and sank in about 1918.  Pieces of the vessel were dredged up when the current boat harbor was constructed.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 03 N 135 22 W   Chart 17326

Sources: 1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. BOEMRE Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

KAIYO MARU NO 12 (1982)     The fish processor Kaiyo Maru No 12 was consumed by fire and sank September 30, 1982 approximately 15 miles north of Dutch Harbor.  All 27 crewmembers were unharmed.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   53 53 27 N 166 32 05 W   Chart 16011

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KALIAKH (1981)     The 86 foot power scow Kaliakh drug anchor, drifted onto the rocks, rolled over and was lost December 13, 1981 in Iliasik Passage near Cold Bay.  All those on board were picked up by the tug Jeffrey Foss and then transferred to the Coast Guard Cutter Ironwood.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 02 N 161 55 W   Chart 16011

Comment: Iliasik Passage is the narrow body of water between Inner and Outer Iliasik Islands in the Shumagin Islands.  WG

Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. Dictionary of Alaska Place Names “Iliasik Passage” Pg 449

 

KALITAN (2002)     The 38 foot troller Kalitan burned to the waterline August 24, 2002 at Hidden Falls Hatchery in Kasnyku Bay on Baranof Island.  All three crewmen evacuated safely.  The blaze was attributed to a turbocharger igniting a stack fire.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 13 N 134 52 30 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: ON 507267

Source: U S C G Enforcement Report (August 24, 2002)

 

KALUGIN (1995)     The 37 foot fiberglass fishing vessel Kalugin grounded and broke up in the surf February 3, 1995 in Resurrection Bay.  Both crewmembers made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 48 N 149 30 W   Chart 16682

Additional Information: ON 913071

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

 

KAMCHATKA (1921)     The 552 ton wooden motorship Kamchatka caught fire midnight Thursday April 14, 1921 approximately 400 miles off of the Shumagin Islands.  The blaze started in the engine room and spread rapidly.  All 23 of the crewmen escaped to a launch and a whaleboat.  86 hours after abandoning ship the group reached the Shumagin Islands and safety.  The Kamchatka had departed Seattle April 3, 1921 bound for Petropovlovak, Kamchatka, Siberia.  She was laden with 436 tons of general trading cargo and oil worth $200,000.  The conditions at the time were listed as “strong breeze, clear, rough sea, dark.”  The dismasted burned hulk was sighted May 23, 1921 drifting far to the south.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska Unknown

Comment: Dead reckoning location of tragedy 51 57 N 154 53 W on report

Additional Information: Tonnage 552 Gross 414 Net, Age 38 years (Originally the whaling bark Thrasher), Registered Seattle, ON 145343, Master John Bertonecini of Seattle, Owner Hibbard Swenson of Seattle, Vessel Value $135,000, Vessel Insurance $100,000, Cargo Insurance $141,000

Sources: 1. U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed by Bertonecini May 13, 1921, 2. BOEMRE Shipwreck List (2011)

KAMIKAZE (1989)     The 32 foot aluminum salmon fishing vessel Kamikaze grounded in bad weather and was abandoned August 10, 1989 off Seguam Island.  All four crewmembers made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   52 19 N 172 30 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: ON 934112

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KAMISHAK (1959)     The 12 ton 36 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Kamishak foundered July 1, 1959 at Cape Kumlik.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 39 N 157 27 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross 11 Net, Length 36.2, Breadth 12.5, Depth 3.7, Built 1946 at Seldovia, Horsepower 110, SL WJ9185, Owner Clemens Grunert, Registered Juneau, ON 259537

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1959) Pg 287, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1960) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 824

 

KAMISHAK QUEEN (1996)     The 76 foot steel longline fishing vessel Kamishak Queen flooded and sank July 2, 1996 in Nuka Bay.  She was traveling from Homer to Seward when her engine room began to flood. Attempts were made to locate the problem and dewater the vessel. From the time the flooding was apparent and a distress call was issued until the crew abandoned ship was six minutes. The Kamishak Queen sank seven minutes later. The two persons aboard made it to safety. It was surmised that a large valve, valve seat or related piping in the engine room had failed. Suspect were the main engine after cooler through hull fittings, valves and piping. Also considered were crab tank through hull fittings, risers, valves and piping. Electrolytic corrosion where indifferent metals were in contact had been noted on the through hull valve seat for the crab tank ballasting system. The vessel was enroute to Seward to be hauled out of the water to make repairs.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 12 N 150 57 30 W   Chart 16680

Additional Information: Tonnage 118 Gross, Length 69, ON 611551

Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. USCG MISLE Case # 953752

 

KANAGA (1946)     The 60 ton 61 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Kanaga stranded and was lost 6 miles south of Sitka on July 27, 1946.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 60 Gross 47 Net, Length 61.6, Breadth 16.5, Depth 8.1, Built 1925 at Tacoma WA, Crew 10, Horsepower 120, Owner Severin Tynes, Registered Ketchikan, ON 224427

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1946) Pg 256, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1947) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 823

KANATAK (1929)     The 62 foot wooden diesel powered halibut fishing vessel Kanatak disappeared in a northeasterly storm with 9 crewmen aboard.  The vessel departed Seward about October 25, 1929 bound for deep sea fisheries and was last seen on November 11th.  Lost in the disaster were master and part owner Conrad Wold of Seattle, Swerdrup Sverdrups, Barney Vanabo, Conrad Novik, Hans Wag, Louis Furanos and Karstein Poulson.  The Kanatak was carrying 15,000 pounds of fresh halibut valued at $1,500.  The vessel was last seen 30 miles northeast of Cape St Elias.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 54 N 144 36 W   Chart 16723

Additional Information: Tonnage 48 Gross 39 Net, Length 62, Breadth 16.8, Depth 6.8, Built 1923 at Olalla WA, Registration Seward and Ketchikan, ON 223259 & 223359, Vessel Value $20,000, Vessel Insurance $15,000, Cargo Insurance none

Source: U S C G Report of Casualty filed at Ketchikan by part owner Peter Wold April 2, 1930

KANATEE (1990)     The 38 foot fishing vessel Kanatee flooded and was abandoned September 13, 1990 at Beauchamp Island southeast of Sitka.  The two crewmembers from the vessel took a skiff to the beach and were later rescued by a U S Coast Guard Helicopter.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 43 N 134 14 W   Chart 17326

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KANDU (1966)     The 87 ton 76 foot steel oil screw fishing vessel Kandu foundered November 25, 1966 off of Anchor Point.  Lost were captain Joe Sambo of Anchorage, Lloyd Nichols of Anchorage and Marvin McGahan of Kenai.  The men had abandoned ship to a skiff which capsized in the eight to ten foot seas.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 46 45 N 151 49 50 W   Chart 16640

Additional Information: Tonnage 87 Gross 66 Net, Length 76.3, Breadth 19, Depth 5.2, Built 1935 at Portland OR, Former Name Rhododendron (U S L H S), Horsepower 446, SL WQ7266, ON 295985

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 351, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1978) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 2118, 3. Seattle Daily Times (November 26) “3 Die When Boat Sinks in Alaska” Pg 24

 

KAP VELALUKA (1939)     The 12 ton gas screw fishing vessel Kap Velaluka caught fire and was destroyed at 6:50 a.m. Sunday August 20, 1939 in Murder Cove.  The vessel had a crew of five with Frank Paul of Sitka as master.  They had departed Tabenkof Bay bound for Tyee August 18, 1939.  Paul, a man from the company rigging scow and boats Buddy, Brac and Jim assisted in trying to put out the flames but the fire got beyond control.  The crew all escaped, but the Kap Velaluka, worth $2,000 was a total loss.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 02 30 N 134 32 30 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross, Built 1914, Registered Ketchikan, ON 212153, Owner Sebastian Stuart Fish Co of Seattle, Vessel Insurance $1,750, Cargo none

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed by H A Stephawes for Sebastian Stuart Fish Co on February 21, 1940.

 

KAREN LEE (1990)     The 58 foot steel salmon gillnetter Karen Lee capsized suddenly and sank August 19, 1990 in Chatham Strait off of Peninsular Point.  All seven crewmembers were rescued by the fishing vessel Polar Lady.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 30 30 N 134 50 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: ON 524565

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KARI (1994)     The 28 foot salmon seiner Kari flooded and sank August 8, 1994 near Sand Point.  Both crewmembers were rescued by another fishing vessel.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 20 15 N 160 30 W   Chart 16553

Additional Information: ON 285154

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

 

KARLUK (1829)     The Russian vessel Karluk was lost November 14, 1829 in Uganik Bay on the west side of Kodiak Island.  The crew survived and salvaged the cargo and fittings from the Karluk.  The loss was attributed to a navigational error and violent winds. The Karluk was travelling from Kodiak to Katmai.

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

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

KARLUK (1899)     The launch Karluk was driven ashore near Cape Karluk and lost in 1899.  The Karluk was valued at $5,200 with cargo.

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

Sources: 1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 52

KARLUK (1914)    The Stefannson Arctic Expedition brigantine Karluk was trapped in the ice in August of 1913 while travelling to Herschel Island in the Arctic.  She drifted in the Beaufort and Chukchi Seas and eventually was crushed by the ice and sank.  The crew and expedition staff survived on the ice and made their way to Wrangell Island months later.  Eleven men perished before they were finally rescued by the vessel King & Winge in September of 1914.

Mapping and Location: Northern Alaska Unknown

Sources: 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pgs 242&247, 2. Wikipedia “Voyage of the Karluk”, 3. New York Times (June 1, 1914) “Bartlett’s Story of the Karluk

KASHIMA MARU (1942)     The 8,572 ton Japanese cargo vessel Kashima Maru (ex Kano Maru) was destroyed by United States bombers August 8, 1942 at Kiska.  The vessel had been severely damaged by the U S submarine Grunion July 31, 1942 and was beached at Kiska.  There the U S Naval bombardment of Kiska finished the Kashima Maru off.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   51 58 N 177 34 E   Chart 16012

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KASILOF (1962)     Two crewmen were lost from the 65 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Kasilof on July 21, 1962.  Jimmy Allain and H A Sanguinetti left the Kasilof in a skiff to go hunting in Geographic Harbor.  The skiff was found running against the beach and an oar and life jacket were found floating in the bay.  Jimmy Allain (18) and Henry Sanguinetti (19) were never found.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 06 N 154 34 W   Chart 16013

Additional Information: Tonnage 66 Gross 45 Net, Length 65.2, Breadth 16.2, Depth 9, Built 1935 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 160, SL WA6727, Owner Island Seafoods, Registered Juneau, ON 233712

Sources: 1. Fairbanks Daily News Miner (July 23, 1962) Pg. 1, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) Pg 317

 

KASILOF (1992)     The 65 foot wooden fishing vessel Kasilof drug anchor, grounded and sank November 4, 1992 near Baranof Island.  The vessel had been anchored behind Gauntlet Island off Cape Cross as winds increased to 50 knots from the northeast. When the wind direction shifted to westerly the vessel swung around and was holed by rocks near her stern and began flooding.  The sole occupant of the vessel abandoned ship to a canoe and the Kasilof sank less than five minutes later.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 45 N 135 10 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: Tonnage 66 Gross 45 Net, Length 65.2, Breadth 16.2, Depth 9, Built 1935 at Seattle WA, ON 233712

Sources: 1. U S C G Shipwreck List (1989-2004), 2. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013), 3. USCG MISLE Case # 50138

 

KATALLA QUEEN (1920)     The 7 ton gas screw Katalla Queen sank in deep water in Valdez Bay at 5:00 a.m. September 3, 1920.  George W Haynes, master and owner of the Katalla Queen says in the casualty report:

“Struck a pile head, breaking a hole in vessel below water line.”  “Tried to tow boat to shore, but she sank before reaching shore.”  “Sunk in deep water near middle of Valdez Bay.”

The Katalla Queen was listed as worth $2,500 with no cargo or insurance.  She had departed Ellamar September 2nd bound for Valdez with 2 crewmen aboard.  The crew survived but the Katalla Queen was a total loss.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   61 07 N 146 16 W   Chart 16707

Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross 5 Net, Built 1911, Registered Cordova & Juneau, ON 208836, Weather foggy with calm sea and wind

Source: U S C G Report of Casualty filed at Juneau November 5, 1926 by Haynes

KATATA MARU (1971)     The 310 foot Japanese fishing vessel Katata Maru rolled over and sank December 14, 1971 in the Bering Sea 20 miles from Adak.  The flaming Katata Maru was being towed out of Adak Harbor by a Navy Tug.  There was no one aboard the vessel when she sank.

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

Source: Seattle Daily Times (December 15, 1971) “Burning Japanese Fishing Boat Sinks” Pg 39

 

KATE DAVENPORT (1916)     The 1170 ton wood bark Kate Davenport parted her anchor chain and stranded January 10, 1916.  The vessel was:

“laying in the Road Stead waiting for a storm…Heavy ice flow parted chain…North west wind about 40 miles…Anchor Point Cook’s Inlet…no vessel in sight nor on the beach.”

Owner R G Doherty listed the vessel as worth $2,500 no insurance no cargo and an unknown crew.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 1170, Built 1866, Registered Seattle, ON 14023, Master none, Owner R G Doherty of Anchorage

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Anchorage July, 2, 1916 by Doherty

KATE & ANNA (1889)     The 45 foot wooden steam sealing schooner Kate & Anna parted her anchor chain in a heavy gale at 2:00 p.m. March 19, 1889 and stranded.  The six crewmen made it to safety, but the Kate & Anna, valued at $7,500 and her cargo, made up of a ten ton hunting and fishing outfit worth $2,500, were lost.  The tragedy took place at the SW shore of Morzhovoi Bay on the Alaska Peninsula.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 N 163 W   Chart 16535

Additional Information: Tonnage 30.7 Gross 16.7 Net, Length 45, Breadth 14.8, Depth 5.7, NHP 8, Built 1879 Yaquina Bay Oregon, Registered Portland Oregon, ON 14376, Vessel Insurance $3,000, Cargo Insurance $1,984, Master and Owner Charles Lutjens of Portland Oregon, Last Port Morzovoi Pass March 17, 1889

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed May 7, 1889 by Lutjens

KATHERINE T (1957)     The 13 ton 34 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Katherine T foundered March 9, 1957 at Anchor Pass near Bell Island.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 59 N 131 24 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information: Tonnage 13 Gross 9 Net, Length 34.7, Breadth 9.9, Depth 5.2, Built 1912 at Austin WA, Former Name Serelda, Horsepower 110, Owner Benjamin B Ruhland, Registered Ketchikan, ON 210593

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1957) Pg 277, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1958) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 778

 

KATHI J (1961)     The 8 ton 29 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Kathi J burned July 18, 1961 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 29.2, Breadth 10.2, Depth 4.1, Built 1952 at Deer Harbor WA, Horsepower 95, SL WP4018, Owner Hubert Campbell, Registered Seattle, ON 263761

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) Pg 317, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 931

 

KATHI R (1980)     The oil screw Kathi R foundered August 27, 1980 eight miles off of the Kekur Peninsula on Baranof Island.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 23 N 134 56 W  Chart 17320

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KATHLEEN ANN (1954)     The 11 ton 34 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Kathleen Ann was consumed by fire July 15, 1954 near the entrance of Canoe Bay in Pavlof Bay.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 34 N 161 18 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: Tonnage 11 Gross 9 Net, Length 34.6, Breadth 10.5, Depth 4.6, Built 1944 at Algonac MI, Former Name LCPR-C-87858 (U S N), Horsepower 143, SL WC6986, Owner Ralph H Johnson, Registered Seattle, ON 254839

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1955) Pg 272, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 743

 

KATHLEEN DIANE (1988)     The 56 foot fishing vessel Kathleen Diane capsized after unloading her catch to a processing vessel August 1, 1988 off the west coast of Dall Island.  All six crewmembers abandoned ship to a life raft.  They were picked up by a passing fishing vessel and transported to Ketchikan.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   54 57 N 133 W   Chart 17400

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KATHY JOANNE (1983)     The fishing vessel Kathy Joanne lost power, broached in a heavy surf and was blown ashore January 15, 1983 on Badger Point on the southern tip of the Kenai Peninsula.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 13 N 151 32 W   Chart 16647

Comment: Likely the point of land below Badger Hill between Windy Bay and Chugach Bay.  WG

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KATHY LYNN (1986)     The 58 foot fishing vessel Kathy Lynn began taking on water and was abandoned August 22, 1986 in Whale Pass.  The three persons aboard were picked up by the fishing vessel Fred J.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 56 N 152 50 W   Chart 16580

Source: Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak)

 

KATMAI (1971)     The 82 foot wooden oil screw crab fishing vessel Katmai sank in deep water between Mitrofania Island and Coal Cape June 21, 1971 when her seams opened up. The four man crew was rescued.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 53 N 158 50 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: Tonnage 98 Gross 66 Net, Length 82.6, Breadth 20.6, Depth 9.2, Built 1915 at Seattle WA, 240 HP, SL WA6760, ON 213010

Source: Merchant Vessels of the U S (1976) Pg 1427

KATMAI (1972)     The steel crab fishing vessel Katmai disappeared February 18, 1972 in the Gulf of Mexico.  The newly constructed crabber departed Mobile, Alabama and was headed to Kodiak for the Alaska crab fishery.  On board were owner Oskar Joos, his wife Carla Joos and eight year old child Cindy Joos and deckhand Clint Hollevoet.  The Katmai was discovered in 8,920 feet of water 200 miles off shore in the Gulf of Mexico in 2012 and positively identified in 2013.

Mapping and Location: Gulf of Mexico

Additional Information: Length 68.7, ON 536879, Call Sign WZJ4916

Sources: 1. USCG News Release Coast Guard Sector Mobile (March 22, 2013) “Coast Guard Identifies sunken vessel missing since 1972”, 2. USCG MISLE Case # 628517

 

KATMAI (2008)     The 93 foot cod fishing factory vessel Katmai foundered October 22, 2008 approximate 100 nautical miles west of Adak in the Aleutian Islands.  Of the 11 crewmembers on board, only four survived.  The vessel lost steering when her lazarette flooded as the Katmai was returning to Dutch Harbor from the fishing grounds with a load of codfish.  She flooded from the stern in heavy weather.  Lost were Cedrick Smith of Portland OR, Glenn Harper of Portland OR, Jake Gilman of Camas, Fuli Lemusu of Salem OR, Joshua Leonguerrero of Spanaway, Robert Davis of Deming and Carlos Zabala of Helena MT.

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

Additional Information: Length 73.3, ON 918779

Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. Seattle Times (October 28, 2008) “Captain describes Katmai’s sinking”, 3. USCG MISLE Case # 430232

 

KATY-T (1955)     The 8 ton 29 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Katy-T was consumed by fire July 27, 1955 at Uyak Bay on Kodiak Island.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 48 N 154 04 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 7 Net, Length 29.3, Breadth 11.8, Depth 2.9, Built 1951 at Bellingham WA, Horsepower 135, SL WD7272, Owner Amund A Taylor, Registered Bellingham WA, ON 261904

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1955) Pg 273, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1956) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 743

 

KATY TOO (1987)     The 30 foot fishing vessel Katy Too was intentionally grounded and lost April 4, 1987 in Icy Strait.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 18 N 134 45 W   Chart 17300

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KAVKAZ (1999)     The 36 foot fiberglass long line cod fishing vessel Kavkaz iced up and capsized January 30, 1999 near Dangerous Cape, a mile and a half off of Point Pogibshi.  The crew, two brothers, Anton Sanarov and Feodor (Fred) Sanarov were trapped beneath the overturned vessel until a hole was cut through the hull with a chainsaw almost a day later by the crew of the Coast Guard cutter Roanoke Island.  The two brothers had both donned survival suits but Feodor Sanarov’s zipper split open.  Feodor was lost to hypothermia, but Anton survived.

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

Additional Information: ON 585907

Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. U S C G News Release (January 31, 1999) “Coast Guard finds one survivor aboard capsized Kavkaz!”

 

KAY (1972)     The gas screw Kay burned January 11, 1972 at Pennock Island, Ketchikan.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 19 40 N 131 37 45 W   Chart 17420

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KAYAK (1913)     The 91 foot 225 hp wooden steam tug Kayak stranded in a strong gale at “Cape Carew inside Ocean Cape” in Yakutat Bay at 9:25 p.m. August 26, 1913.  The crew of 10 escaped in lifeboats, but the Kayak, valued at $25,000 became a total loss.  The vessel had departed Seldovia in ballast August 22, 1913 bound for Seattle. The Kayak reported the following:

“Vessel pulling in for shelter, but could not see lights or land and struck beach.”  “Strong gale very heavy sea, dark and rainy.”  “Various courses were tried, but on account of heavy weather Master could not keep on course.  When boat struck Engines stopped and put full speed astern.”

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 33 30 N 139 50 15 W   Chart 16761

Comment: Point Carew is just inside Ocean Cape. WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 115 Gross, Length 91, Breadth 23.5, Depth 10, Service Passenger, HP 225, Built 1901 Alameda California, Registered Seattle, ON 161177, Vessel Insurance $20,000, Master John F Wall of Seattle, Owner Seldovia Salmon Company of Seattle

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed by E F Randolph, Secretary for Seldovia Salmon October 9, 1913 in Washington

KAYAK (1980)     The floating cannery Kayak ran up on the rocks, rolled over and sank in a heavy southeast storm May 29, 1980 off of the southwest end of Kayak Island near Sea Ranger Reef.  The vessel was experiencing electrical problems that effected the hydraulic steering.  The captain and crew of 9 and processing plant workers abandoned ship to life boats and were rescued by the fishing vessel Aloha. All 10 survivors were transferred to the fishing vessel Shirley J who transported them to Cordova.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 51 20 N 144 36 45 W   Chart 16723

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Communication with Aloha Crewmember May 29, 2018

 

KAYLA MARIE C (2007)     The 37 foot fiberglass fishing vessel Kayla Marie C struck a submerged rock near Three Sisters Rocks and foundered September 2, 2007 near Old Harbor on Kodiak Island.  The one person aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska 57 12 15 N 153 18 W   Chart 16592

Additional Information: Tonnage 37 Gross 25 Net, Length 40.2, Breadth 14.2, Depth 8.1, Built 1971 Port Townsend and Bayview WA, ON 531581, Call Sign WZN2208, Former Name Destiny

Sources: 1. Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak), 2. USCG MISLE Case # 373961

 

KELLY B (1967)     The 14 ton 32 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Kelly B collided with a rock and was lost July 3, 1967 in Crab Bay, Prince William Sound.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 08 30 N 135 33 40 W   Chart 16702

Additional Information: Tonnage 14 Gross 11 Net, Length 32.2, Breadth 12, Depth 4.8, Built 1946 at Vaughn WA, Horsepower 140, SL WA6781, Registered Bellingham WA, ON 250363

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 355, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1169

 

KELLY B (1973)     The fishing vessel Kelly B exploded while refueling January 1, 1973 in Cedar Bay, Prince William Sound.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 33 30 N 146 00 30 W   Chart 16709

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KELSANDO II (1982)     The pleasure craft Kelsando II sank January 1, 1982 in Port Wells.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 48 N 148 14 W   Chart 16700

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KELSEY DAWN (2004)     The 38 foot troller Kelsey Dawn struck a rock coming into Canoe Passage and sank November 5, 2004 at the east entrance to Sergius Narrows in Peril Strait.  All four persons on board abandoned ship to a skiff and made it safely to the beach.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 24 20 N 135 38 W   Chart 17323

Additional Information: Length 38.3, Built 1978, ON 603506, Call Sign WYC9927

Sources: 1. USCG Enforcement Report (November 5, 2004), 2. USCG MISLE Case # 208729

 

KEMAR (2000)     The 32 foot wooden salmon fishing vessel Kemar caught fire from an overheated engine manifold and was lost July 17, 2000 near Etolin Point in Bristol Bay.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 40 05 N 159 19 45 W   Chart 16006

Additional Information: ON AK2979B

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

 

KENAI (1974)     The refrigerated barge Kenai broke away from her towing vessel in a storm October 15, 1974 and sank in 20 fathoms of water off Snipe Bay south of Sitka.  The barge was hauling fertilizer for the Pacific Northwest.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 25 N 134 57 W   Chart 17320

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KENAI I (1948)     The 163 ton 82 foot wooden oil screw Kenai I was consumed by fire August 3, 1948 at the mouth of the Kasilof River in Cook Inlet.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 163 Gross 131 Net, Length 82.3, Breadth 26.6, Depth 8.7, Built 1945 at Tacoma WA, Service freight, Crew 5, Horsepower 240, SL AWEA, Owner Kenai Packing Company, Registered Juneau, ON 249754

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1948) Pg 272, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 910

 

KENNECOTT (1923)     The 3620 ton steel motor ship Kennecott stranded and was lost at Hunters Point, Graham Island, BC at 11:55 p.m. Monday October 8, 1923. The vessel departed Cordova October 3, 1923 bound for Seattle with 31 crewmen aboard.  Her cargo; 6000 tons of copper ore concentrates and 40,000 cases of salmon, was worth a million dollars.  Captain John A (Laughing Jack) Johnson of Seattle claimed that “dirty weather prevented taking sight of sun to ascertain…position.”  The USCG cutter Unalga, USCGS steamer Surveyer, and steamer Cordova all responded to the wreck site and took the crew aboard.  It was determined that nothing more could be done.  Soon after the British salvage steamer Algerine was dispatched from Victoria, BC to the wreck but ran ashore and returned to port in distress herself.  Many of the Kennecott’s crew were taken to Ketchikan and then on to Seattle aboard the SS Alameda.  A group of 8 men including Captain Johnson were left on the beach to guard the wreck site.  They were picked up by the salvage tug Hercules and transported home via Vancouver.  Captain Johnson disappeared the night of October 21, 1923 on his way back to Victoria aboard the Algerine.  The Kennecott was his second shipwreck as captain; the first being the sinking of the Ohio in 1909 in Finlayson Channel, BC.  That wreck cost his purser, quartermaster, wireless operator and one soldier their lives.   As the Algerine approached the earlier shipwreck site, it is said that “Laughing Jack” Johnson lept overboard to his death.  The Kennecott is reported to have broken up quickly with two main parts of the hull drifting away and sinking.

Mapping and Location: British Columbia

Additional Information:  Tonnage 3620 Gross 2242 Net, Age 2 years, Registered NY, ON 221096, Owner Alaska Steamship Company of Seattle, Vessel Value $1,176,000, Vessel Insurance $898,000, Cargo Value $500,000, Cargo fully insured

Sources: 1. U S C G Report of Casualty October 31, 1923 by Supt. AK Steamship Co, 2. Alaska Steam (1984) Pg 73

KENTUCKY (1926)     The 39 ton 55 foot gas screw fishing vessel Kentucky burned and was lost at Halibut Cove September 23, 1926.

Mapping and Location: Unknown Alaska (Multiple Halibut Coves)

Additional Information: Tonnage 39 Gross 30 Net, Length 55.3, Breadth 15, Depth 6.8, Built 1917 at Tacoma WA, Horsepower 50, Crew 6, Registered Seattle WA, ON 214923

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1927) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 862, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1926) Pgs 390-1, 3. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 375

KENUDY (1948)     The 11 ton 32 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Kenudy foundered July 4, 1948 one and one half miles off Tolstoy Point in Clarence Strait.

Mapping and Location:  Southeast Alaska   55 40 10 N 132 23 10 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information:  Tonnage 11 Gross 9 Net, Length 32.3, Breadth 11, Depth 3.6, Built 1945 at Edmonds WA, Horsepower 75, Owner Henry H Swanhause, Registered Seattle WA, ON 248072

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1949) Pg 287, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1950) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 926

 

KEPALA (2007)     The 50 foot fiberglass fishing vessel Kepala experienced an engine room fire originating on the exhaust lagging September 11, 2007 which consumed the vessel to the waterline. She drifted ashore near Black Point in Tatitlek Narrows.  All three crewmembers escaped to a life raft and were picked up by Good Samaritan vessels including the 80 foot fishing vessel Sound Pacer and 51 foot fishing vessel Tri-K out of Cordova.  The Kepala listed Kodiak as her home port.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 53 N 146 43 W   Chart 16700

Comment: Reports indicate that what was left of this vessel was salvaged. WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 26 Gross 21 Net, Length 50, ON 949113, Call Sign WDA4710

Sources: 1. U S Coast Guard News Release (September 12, 2007) “Coast Guard Investigates the Cause of Kepala Boat Fire in Prince William Sound”, 2. USCG MISLE Case # 373715

 

KERRY (1952)     The 11 ton 33 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel Kerry stranded and was lost February 15, 1952 on Afognak Island.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 15 N 152 30 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 11 Gross 9 Net, Length 33.5, Breadth 11.3, Depth 4.3, Built 1937 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 85, Owner Snyder J King – Mainland Fisheries Inc., Registered Seattle, ON 236916

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1959) Pg 292, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1960) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 824

 

KETA (1974)     The 7 ton gas water jet Keta was consumed by fire during August of 1974 at Haines.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross, Built 1972, ON 539396

Source: Merchant Vessels of the U S (1976) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1870

 

KETA (1984)     The fishing vessel Keta was destroyed by fire January 1, 1984 at Olsen Island.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 52 15 N 147 33 30 W   Chart 16700

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KETCHIKAN (1974)     The barge Ketchikan capsized and was lost July 1, 1974 off of the Aleutian Islands.  Heavy seas washed 8,323 tons of oil pipe off of the deck of the Ketchikan causing the disaster.  She was being towed by the tug Sudbury II.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   Unknown

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KETCHUM (1931)     The 8 ton gas screw Ketchum stranded on a rock at 3:30 p.m. Saturday October 17, 1931 a mile and a half north of Wedge Island in Clarence Strait.  The vessel departed Ketchikan bound for Dolomi October 16, 1931 carrying a cargo of one ton of household furniture worth $250.00.  Owner and master of the Ketchum, Tom Stevens of Ketchikan gave the following accounting of the loss:

“Calm and daylight when vessel first anchored – storm later.”  “1 ½ N. Wdge Isl. Clarence Straits…stranding then broke up on beach in storm.”  “Vessel broke anchor, hit rock, then storm blew it ashore.”  “When vessel broke anchor and stranded on rock two anchors were put out to hold it.  Storm arose later and before anything could be done the vessel was blown off the rocks and dashed to pieces on the beach.”

The Ketchum was worth $2,000 at the time of the casualty and had no insurance.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 09 N 131 58 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 5 Net, Built 1913, Registration Ketchikan, ON 211166

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Ketchikan by Stevens October 24, 1931

 

KETIVIK (2015)     The 50 foot steel landing craft Ketivik disappeared on a trip from Ugashik to Egegik. Roland Briggs was alone on the vessel and was lost with her.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska

Additional Information: Tonnage 19 Gross 13 Net, Length 41.9, Breadth 13.2, Depth 4.2, Built 1976 Everett WA, Service Tank Ship, ON 575101

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) Pg 757, 2. USCG News Releases (Oct. 16-17)

 

KETOVIA (1962)     The 53 ton 57 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Ketovia burned September 21, 1962 in Cook Inlet.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 53 Gross 36 Net, Length 57.6, Breadth 17.2, Depth 7.8, Built 1945 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 182, SL WA6802, Owner A C Hastings Jr., Registered Juneau, ON 248155

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) Pg 332, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1964) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 965

 

KEVALASKA (1975)     The 326 foot steel barge Kevalaksa capsized and was lost May 25, 1975 near Seldovia and Kachemak Bay.  The vessel was a U S Navy Landing Craft converted to a barge and was hauling general cargo including logs and cement.  The Kevalaska was being towed by the tug Daphne.  The barge and cargo were valued at 1.2 million dollars.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 35 N 151 52 W   Chart 16640

Additional Information: Tonnage 3384 Gross and Net, Length 326.5, Breadth 50, Depth 24.2, Built 1944 at Hingham MA, Former Names LST 928 (USN), APB 50 (USN), Cameron, ON 282136

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. The Seattle Times (May 29, 1975) “Divers examine barge in Alaska, consider salvage” Pg G 4, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1974) “Kevalaska” Pgs 562 &1419

 

KEY WEST (1917)     The vessel Key West was lost in Unimak Pass near Scotch Cap in 1917.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   54 24 15 N 164 47 30 W   Chart 16520

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

KEY WEST (1978)     The crab fishing vessel Key West flooded her lazarette in a violent storm and sank October 23, 1978 in the Bering Sea 40 miles north of Amak Island.  The Key West, formerly the La Regina, had recently been brought from the east coast.  She only survived three crab fishing trips.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 25 N 163 08 W   Chart 16011

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KFC-7 (1961)     The 7 ton 31 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel KFC-7 burned October 3, 1961 at Chignik Lagoon.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 7 Gross 5 Net, Length 31.5, Breadth 9.9, Depth 3.6, Built 1942 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 110, SL WC6547, Owner Chignik Fisheries Company, Registered Ketchikan, ON 241424

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) Pg 314, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 931

 

KFC-8 (1954)     The 9 ton 30 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel KFC-8 burned November 28, 1954 near Afognak.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 00 30 N 152 46 W   Chart 165594

Additional Information: Tonnage 9 Gross 6 Net, Length 30, Breadth 11, Depth 3.9, Built 1944 at Seattle WA, Horsepower 105, Owner Kadiak Fisheries Company, Registered Ketchikan, ON 245316

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1952) Pg 295, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1955) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 739

 

KIEJAK (1971)     The 86 foot fishing vessel Kiejak took on water, ran aground and was lost April 27, 1971 In Dry Bay.  All four crewmembers were rescued by pilots from Yakutat.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 08 N 138 25 W   Chart 16016

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Anchorage Daily News (April 28, 1971) “Fishermen Rescued” Pg 10

 

KILLARNEY (1918)     The 13 ton wooden gas screw Killarney left Petersburg December 21, 1918 with three souls aboard bound for Thomas Bay and was never seen again.  Lost when the Killarney disappeared, were owner and master H Van Vlack of Olympia and crewmen Robert Dorsey and E Sakagami.  The following are excerpts from the casualty report filed by George Van Vlack, Administrator of the Estate for H Van Vlack:

“Vessel left Petersburg at 3 p.m. December 21st for our cannery at Thomas Bay.  Searchers found anchor buoyed with empty can crates on Thomas Bay Bar off Wood Point. One box apples and hatch cover found near Faragut Bay. Believed vessel struck ice or rock off Wood Point and was disabled and forced to anchor. Heavy sea on bar prevented landing and that they left anchorage as last resort hoping to drift across to Vanderput Pt. but foundered in Frederick Sound. Bodies unrecovered.”  “strong S.E. wind/ believed vessel anchored about 5 p.m.  Wind increased to gale during night.”

The Killarney was valued at $4,000 at the time of the disaster and had no insurance.  She had a cargo of approximately 5 tons of salt, coal, cans and groceries valued at $500 also uninsured.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 00 30 N 132 59 W   Chart 17367

Additional Information: Tonnage 13 Gross 8 Net, Age 5 years, Registered at Tacoma Washington, ON 211235.

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed February 10, 1919 at Seattle

KIM (1974)     The oil screw Kim stranded and was lost September 9, 1974 at Glacier Point near Haines.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   59 06 10 N 135 22 45 W   Chart 17300

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KIM (1992)     The 32 foot salmon seiner Kim caught her net in the wheel, grounded and sank July 9, 1992 near Egegik.  There was no loss of life.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 13 N 157 22 W   Chart 16006

Additional Information: ON AK4104E

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

 

KIMBACK (1917)     The motor vessel Kimback (see Kumback) was lost December 19, 1917 at Anchorage.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   61 13 05 N 149 53 30 W   Chart 16663

Sources: 1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 294, 3. BOEMRE Shipwreck List (2011)

KIMBALL (1959)     The 20 ton 37 foot wooden gas screw Kimball was consumed by fire during 1959 in Knudson Cove.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 28 30 N 131 48 W   Chart 17420

Additional Information: Tonnage 20 Gross 18 Net, Length 37.7, Breadth 12.4, Depth 3.2, Built 1932 at Olympia WA, Horsepower 100, Service freight, Owner L H Ingman, Registered Ketchikan, ON 231810

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 358, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1169

 

KIMBERLY (1985)     The fishing vessel Kimberly sank May 20, 1985 approximately 80 miles northwest of Dutch Harbor.  Ben Cantu (39) was lost and four other crewmembers were rescued.

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

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Daily Sitka Sentinel (May 22, 1985) “Search Called Off” Pg 9

 

KIMBERLY (2012)     The 58 foot steel fishing vessel Kimberly grounded in Jute Bay at 10:06 P.M. January 24, 2012. Winds were gusting to 100 miles an hour, seas were 16 feet and temperatures were well below freezing. A U. S. Coast Guard helicopter arrived on scene but weather conditions prevented a rescue and the chopper returned to Kodiak for fuel. During a second rescue attempt the Jayhawk helicopter that had been dispatched was diverted to another vessel in distress; the Heritage with seven crewmen aboard. That helicopter was able to retrieve two of the Heritage crewmembers. The Good Samaritan vessel Tuxedni rescued the other five.  A third helicopter was sent and rescued the four fishermen from the Kimberly. All eleven rescued crewmembers were wearing survival suits. Two of the crewmen from the Kimberly had to be treated for severe hypothermia.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 32 30 N 151 51 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 61 Gross 49 Net, Length 58, Breadth 17.5, Depth 9.1, Built 1970 Blaine WA, SL WY9663, ON 526541

Sources: 1. U S Coast Guard Maritime Information Exchange, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S 1979 Pg 760, 3. U S Coast Guard News Releases (January 24, 2012 January 25, 2012), 4. ADEC Situation Reports (January 25, February 1, February 14, 2012)

 

KING (1964)     The 35 foot steel gas screw fishing vessel King was destroyed by the earthquake and tidal wave 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 19 Gross 13 Net, Length 35.3, Breadth 12.1, Depth 5.2, Built 1947 at Portland OR, Former Name Wafico 21, ON 253371

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) Pg 899, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1963) Pg 333

 

KING #1 (1926)     An explosion destroyed the 8 ton gas screw King #1 while at anchor in Green Island Harbor at 10:30 a.m. January 15, 1926.  Captain Louis Dahl and crewman George F McDonald had left Latouche January 8, 1926 for a round trip to Fox Island / Green Island.  When the explosion happened a week later the vessel had 500 lbs. of cargo aboard, listed as foxes and gas with a value of $1,000.  The following are statements from the wreck report filed by crewman McDonald:

“Green Island Harbor, at anchor.”  “Explosion…due to accumulation of gas fumes over night in closed cabin. Explosion occurred while lighting stove.”  “Cabin door and porthole open at time of explosion.”  “Crew went ashore in dory, thence to Latouche for first aid.”

The King #1 was valued at $3,000 and had no insurance on the vessel or her cargo.  She was owned by the Green Island Blue Fox Corporation of Cordova

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   60 15 N 147 28 30 W   Chart 16701

Additional Information: Tonnage 8 Gross 6 Net, Built 1920, Registered Cordova, ON 219856

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Cordova by McDonald

KING & WINGE (1994)     The 97 foot wooden crab fishing vessel King & Winge flooded and sank February 23, 1994 approximately 22 miles west of Saint Paul Island in the Pribilof Islands.  The King & Winge was built in 1914 and the oldest fishing vessel in the fleet.  Both generators failed during fishing operations causing slack water in the fish hold, flooding and instability. Snow, freezing spray and 18 foot seas dampened efforts to save the vessel and contributed to the flooding. Pumps were dropped from a U S Coast Guard C-130 aircraft and brought over from the Coast Guard Cutter Hamilton.  When all efforts failed, the U S Coast Guard Cutter Hamilton and fishing vessel Kona Kai rescued the four crewmembers from the King & Winge who abandoned ship in survival suits to a liferaft.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   57 10 N 170 15 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: Tonnage 143 Gross 97 Net, Length 96.7, Breadth 19.6, Depth 9.7, Built 1914, CS WA3810, ON 212014

Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Alaska), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. USCG Maritime Information Exchange, 4. USCG MISLE Case # 848662

 

KING FISHER (1942)     The 16 ton 38 foot wooden gas screw fishing vessel King Fisher foundered June 3, 1942 near Lazarri Island (Saint Lazaria Island) off of Cape Edgecumbe, Kruzof Island Sitka Sound.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 59 45 N 135 51 W   Chart 17320

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1943) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 755, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1942) Pg 186

KING FISHER (1942)     The 16 ton 38 foot wooden gas screw halibut schooner King Fisher foundered June 4, 1942 near Pilot Point five miles off of Lazaroff Island.  Owner and master Harold Heinz of Seattle was rescued by a Navy patrol craft but three others were lost; Pat Hughes of Ketchikan, John Herman of Sitka and Dan Odair.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   56 59 15 N 135 42 W   Chart 17320

Additional Information: Tonnage 16 Gross 13 Net, Length 38.1, Breadth11.4, Depth 6.4, Built 1927 at Seattle WA, Crew 2, Horsepower 20, Owner Harold Hines, Registered Ketchikan, ON 226694

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1945) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 776, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1944) Pg 207, 3. Seattle Daily Times (June 6, 1942) “Boat Swamped; 1 Dies, 2 Missing” Pg 10

KING JAMES (1980)     One person was presumed lost when the fishing vessel King James was found abandoned at the Seal Bar marker near Egg Island on the Copper River Delta.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   60 25 N 145 W   Chart 16013

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KINGSTON (1933)     The 171 ton 98 foot wooden diesel powered steam trading vessel Kingston wrecked in Whitestone Narrows 16 miles NW of Sitka May 20, 1933.  The 12 persons aboard made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 14 50 N 135 33 45 W   Chart 17324

Additional Information: Tonnage 171 Gross 116 Net, Length 98, Breadth 24.5, Depth 6.7, Built 1901 at Tacoma WA, Formerly steam ship Defiance, Service passenger, Horsepower 300, Owner Washington Route, Registered Seattle, ON 157607

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1933) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 990, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1932) Pgs 108-9, 3. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 425

KIOWA (1978)     The 72 foot wooden Samson Tug and Barge Company tug Kiowa foundered October 30, 1978 in Herring Bay, Frederick Sound. The vessel had been damaged in a storm the day before and was towed to Admiralty Island Inlet, Herring Bay by sister tug Calumet. The Kiowa sank in 30 feet of water. There was no loss of life. The tugs had been towing rafts of logs to Wrangell when foul weather broke up the booms and scattered the logs.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 07 N 134 22 W   Chart 17320

Comment: Salvage attempts were being considered. WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 54 Gross, 37 Net, Length 72, Breadth 17.3, Depth 7.1, Built 1895 at San Francisco CA, ON 81501, Former Name Foss No 19, Vessel Value $80,000

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Sitka Daily Sentinel (November 1, 1978) “Samson Tug Kiowa Sinks Off Admiralty” Pg 1, Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) Pg. 763

 

KISKA (1948)     The 48 ton 59 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Kiska was lost after colliding with the gas screw Mayflower on July 24, 1948 at the entrance to south Kaigani Harbor on Dall Island.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   54 45 30 N 132 43 W   Chart 17400

Additional Information: Tonnage 48 Gross 33 Net, Length 59.6, Breadth 15.2, Depth 7.7, Built 1917 at Tacoma WA, Crew 8, Horsepower 120, SL WA6841, Owner Gerald M Oaksmith, Registered Ketchikan, ON 214852

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1950) Pg 291, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1951) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 938

 

KISKA (1970)     The 70 foot wooden crab fishing vessel Kiska burned and sank February 9, 1970 in a cove in Kovurof Bay, Atka Island.  The crew was rescued by the fishing vessel Kenivan Bay and transferred to the processing ship Northgate.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   52 05 N 174 56 W   Chart 16480

Additional Information: Tonnage 94 Gross 45 Net, Length 70.5, Breadth 22.4, Depth 8.7, Built 1945 at Astoria OR, 450 HP, ON 249274

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011) 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1974) Pg 1256, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 360

 

KISKA (1978)     The 34 foot vessel Kiska was lost off of Sitkalidak Island December 14, 1978.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 07 N 153 14 W   Chart 16580

Source: Unofficial Wreck List (Kodiak)

 

KITSAP (1966)     The 526 ton 159 foot wooden ferry Kitsap foundered November 3, 1966 about ¾ of a mile northwest of Tonki Cape Light.  The Kitsap was built as a ferry for the Kitsap County Transportation Company and launched from the Lake Washington Shipyard in 1925.  She held about 100 cars and 800 passengers and travelled at 12 knots.  From 1925 till 1966 the ferry was operated in Washington and Oregon waters.  In 1966 she was purchased to be used as a cannery in Alaska but did not survive the trip north.  The Kitsap sank while under tow near Kodiak Island, ending a long and colorful career.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 21 N 151 59 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 526 Gross 358 Net, Length 158.9, Breadth 48.1, Depth 13.7, Built 1925 at Houghton WA, Horsepower 600, Registered Astoria OR, ON 224489

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 360, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1968) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 1169, 3. Evergreen Fleet.com/Kitsap1925 (2013)

 

KITTY BEAR (1976)     The 12 ton 34 foot wooden oil screw fishing vessel Kitty Bear foundered April 5, 1976 in Clarence Strait.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   54 45 N 131 42 W   Chart 16016

Additional Information: Tonnage 12 Gross 10 Net, Length 34.2, Breadth 9.7, Depth 4.9, Built Unknown, ON 248576

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1965) Pg 361, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1978) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 2118

 

KITTI WAKE (1988)     The 32 foot gillnet fishing vessel Kitti Wake was burned July 3, 1988 in Cook Inlet.

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

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KITTIWAKE (1913)     The 23 ton 44 foot gas screw fishing vessel Kittiwake was lost off of East Cape, Siberia September 6, 1913.

Mapping and Location: Siberia

Additional Information: Tonnage 23 Gross 15 Net, Length 44.2, Breadth 17.3, Depth 4.4, Built 1896 at Eagle Harbor WA, Registered Seattle, ON 107256

Sources . 1. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 230, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1914) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 429, 3. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1913) Pg 219

 

KITTIWAKE (1990)     The U S Fish and Wildlife Service vessel Kittiwake capsized January 29, 1990 at Adak.  John Cantu and Karen Norton were lost. James Fuller and Heather Vose were rescued and taken to the hospital at the Naval Air Station on Adak.

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

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Daily Sitka Sentinel (January 31, 1990) “Two Killed, Two Rescued in Capsizing of Boat Off Adak” Pg 7

 

KIVALINA (1980)     The tug Kivalina disappeared April 19, 1980 between Georgia Strait, British Columbia and Ketchikan.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   Unknown

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KLYUCHEVSKY (1961)     The Soviet trawler Klyuchevsky disappeared 90 miles west of Saint Paul Island December 30, 1961.  Searches by the United States Coast Guard and Russian vessels in the area found only a small amount of debris.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   57 10 N 170 15 W   Chart 16011

Sources: 1. Michael Burwell Shipwreck List (2013), 2. Seattle Times (January 9, 1962) “Active Search” Pg 11

 

KNIGHT ISLAND (1994)     The 152 foot steel salmon tender Knight Island took on water from the bow, capsized and sank August 1, 1994 approximately one mile off of Cape Ugat in 15 to 20 fathoms of water.  The three crewmembers on board were rescued by a Good Samaritan fishing vessel and the U S Coast Guard Cutter Sedge. It was suspected that the flooding may have been related to a collision that the Knight Island was involved in July 6, 1994.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 52 20 N 153 50 40 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 293 Gross 201 Net, Length 152.4, Breadth 23.3, Depth 11.3, Built 1944 Barber NJ, ON 296606, Call Sign WU9656, Former Name Sitkin

Sources: 1. Unofficial Shipwreck List (Alaska), 2. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 3. USCG MISLE Case # 64541, 4. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) Pg 1405

 

KODIAK (1895)     The 103 ton 93 foot wooden schooner Kodiak was lost on the beach at the SE point of Geese Island at 8:30 a.m. Sunday April 14, 1895.  The vessel departed Kodiak’s Saint Paul Harbor April 10th bound for Ajaktalik with 8 crewmen and one passenger.  The vessel was carrying 40 tons of cargo and 45 tons of ballast.  The cargo consisted of 10M. of lumber , general merchandise and furs worth $2,000.  The following are excerpts from the Wreck Report filed by the vessels master R Petersen of San Francisco:

“On Geese Island on SE point, Alaska.”  “Stranding…anchors could not hold…Heavy gale, snow, heavy sea from WNW, daylight.”  “Got under way when storm commenced.  Carried away sails.  Had to come to, anchors dragged and in order to save lives had to slip and run her ashore on Sand spit.”

Those aboard made it to safety but the Kodiak, worth $9,000 was a total loss.  Her cargo is reported as partially salvaged.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 44 N 153 53 W   Chart 16580

Additional Information: Tonnage 102.89, Length 93, Breadth 25, Depth 8.2, Built 1881 San Francisco, Registered San Francisco, ON 14396, Owner Alaska Commercial Company of San Francisco, Vessel Insurance $7,500, Cargo fully insured

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed at San Francisco August 21, 1895 by Petersen

KODIAK (1937)     The 16 ton wooden gas screw Kodiak was completely destroyed by fire at 11:30 a.m. Thursday September 9, 1937 at Womans Bay near Kodiak.  The vessel had departed Kodiak with three crewmen aboard and was headed toward Chiniak Bay to pick up fish at various points along the way.  W J Erskine, owner of the Kodiak made the following statements on the casualty report:

“Moderate NE gale…Entrance to Womans Bay, Kodiak Is…Backfire in engine room ignited bilges and gasoline tanks…Caught fire entrance Woman’s Bay…towed to beach where she burned.”  “Attempted extinguish flames with fire extinguishers, got assistance, towed vessel to beach.”  “Ray Harmon, operating power skiff, took vessel in tow and beached her in Womans Bay.”  “Shortly after beaching vessel fire reached gasoline tanks in stern, containing about 700 gals. and exploded, causing complete destruction of vessel.”

All of the crewmen escaped to safety, but the Kodiak, worth $12,000 was a total loss.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   57 43 N 152 31 W   Chart 16580

Comment: This vessel is mistakenly reported as burned at Chignik in Merchant Vessels of 1938 Vessels Reported Lost Pg 512.  WG

Additional Information: Tonnage 16 Gross 11 Net, Built 1922, Registered Seward, ON 222366, Master W W Bourke of Kodiak, Owner W J Erskine of Kodiak, Vessel Insurance $8,000, Cargo none

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty filed at Kodiak October 5, 1937

KODIAK KID (1982)     The 43 foot tug Kodiak Kid sank January 29, 1982 north of Woody Island near Kodiak.  The two persons aboard escaped to a life raft.  The EPIRB signal from the raft was picked up by a U S Coast Guard C-130 and the two were rescued by a Coast Guard helicopter soon after.

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

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

 

KODIAK PRINCE (1986)     The 26 foot vessel Kodiak Prince rolled over and sank February 12, 1986 off of the south end of Kodiak Island.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 39 N 154 06 W   Chart 16580

Source: Unofficial Shipwreck List (Kodiak)

 

KOHO (1983)     The 70 foot sailboat Koho took on water, capsized and sank April 3, 1983 two miles south of Kayak Island. The three crewmen from the Koho were being assisted by three Coast Guard men in a small boat from the cutter Sweetbrier and two crewmen from the fishing vessel Arrow when a large wave caused crab pots to shift aboard the sailboat. The Koho soon rolled over and sank. All eight men were rescued. Crewmen rescued from the Koho were T K Smith and Tony Cornfejo of Seattle and Onnis Cannon of Richfield, MI.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   56 56 N 144 23 W   Chart 16013

Comment: The halibut schooner Cohoe is reported lost April 1, 1983 approximately twenty miles northwest of Kayak Island.  Both reports originated in newspaper or magazine accounts.  WG

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Daily Sitka Sentinel (April 5, 1983) “Boat Sinks” Pg 6

 

KOLYMA (1920)     The 29 ton gas screw Kolyma stranded and became a total loss on the northwest side of Sledge Island at 2:45 a.m.  Thursday July 22, 1920.  The vessel had departed Nome earlier in the day to seek shelter at Sledge Island with two crewmen aboard.  John Vatney of Seattle, master of the Kolyma made the following statements in the casualty report:

“North west side of Sledge Island, Alaska….STRANDING”  “The wind shifted suddenly to the west and was a gale in a few minutes and the engine refused to work.”  “There was a gale blowing from the west, very heavy sea, and impossible for anchors to hold vessel…light.”  “We dropped the second anchor and tried to start the engine, but she struck the reef before engine could be started.  There were several vessels there but none of them could render assistance as it was all they could do to get out themselves.”  “When the anchors started to drag we blew for the ga.s. Genvieve who was close, and asked for assistance.  She tried to get a line to us but the sea was so rough she could not.  The reason the engines refused to work was that the heavy rolling got water in the cylinders.”

The crewmen were able to get to safety but the Kolyma and her cargo became a total loss.  She was carrying 30 tons of general merchandise including 75 cases of distillate and coal oil on deck.  The vessel was valued at $10,000 and her cargo at $15,000.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   64 29 N 166 13 W   Chart 16200

Additional Information: Tonnage 29 Gross 24 Net, Built 1915, Registered Seattle, ON 213421, Owners C L Hibbard, H C Hibbard and Olaf Swenson of Seattle, Insurance unknown

Source: U S Coast Guard Report of Casualty August 4, 1920 at Nome

KONG SVERRE (1918)     The 23 ton wooden gas screw fishing vessel Kong Sverre stranded and was lost at the N.E. point of Warren Island at 5 a.m. Monday January 28, 1915.  The vessel departed Craig January 25, 1918 bound for Hood Bay.  She had a 6 person crew with Clifford Kelly of Friday Harbor, WA as master.  The Kong Sverre was carrying 15 tons of lumber and provisions valued at $500.  The following are statements made by Kelly on the casualty report:

“N.E. point Warren Island…Stranding…Engine failed.”  “N.E. gale, dark, clear, heavy seas.”  “Anchor run and set with weights.”  “S.S. Redondo took one man for help to Craig, Alaska.”  “Engine removed apparel removed vessel.”  “Dismanteled and abandoned.”

The Kong Sverre was valued at $6,000 at the time of the loss.  The  losses listed on the casualty report ate $500 on the vessel and $50 on the cargo.  She was insured for only $1,000.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 53 N 133 53 W   Chart 17400

Additional Information: Tonnage 23 Gross 15 Net, Age 6 years, Registered Ketchikan, ON 209849, Owner W F Reichmeine of Klawock

Source: U S Customs Report of Casualty filed at Wrangell February 20, 1918

 

KOSHUN MARU (1930)     The Japanese steamer Koshun Maru broke in two near Scotch Cap in Unimak Pass in 1930.  The vessel was traveling from Puget Sound to the Orient with a cargo of lumber.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   54 24 15 N 164 47 30 W   Chart 16520

Source: The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 404

KOTCHIRA MARU (1917)     The 3478 ton Japanese steamer Kotchira Maru wrecked on the S.E. end of Amchitka Island July 27, 1917.  The vessel was traveling from Japan to San Francisco carrying $400,000 worth of general merchandise.  The crew of 49 escaped the disaster in three life boats.  One reached Unalaska, one landed on Vancouver Island and the third was picked up by the vessel Santa Ana.  The Santa Ana took the crew to Seward and then Seattle.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   51 32 N 179 E  Chart 16450

Sources: 1. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992), 2. The H W McCurdy Marine History of the Pacific Northwest (1966) Pg 293

KOTOHIRA MARU (1943)     The 6,101 ton Japanese cargo ship Kotohira Maru was sunk by U S Army B-24 bombers January 6, 1943 off Holtz Bay, Attu Island.  Only two crewmembers were rescued.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   52 56 30 N 173 10 45 E   Chart 16012

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KOTZBUE (1956)     The 69 ton 60 foot steel oil screw Kotzebue was destroyed by ice March 10, 1956 in Kotzebue Sound.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   66 45 N 163 W   Chart 16005

Additional Information: Tonnage 69 Gross 47 Net, Length 60.3, Breadth 18.5, Depth 6.8, Built 1946 at Blaine WA, Service freight, Horsepower 120, SL WA6873, Owner Arctic Oil Sales Inc., Registered Juneau, ON 249916

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1958) Pg 290, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1959) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 802

 

KOYUKUK (1906)      The 286 ton 120 foot wooden stern wheel river steamer Koyukuk struck a rock and wrecked at Little Delta on the Tanana River below Chena May 20, 1906.  The Koyukuk was engaged in the inland passenger trade and had 32 aboard at the time of the loss.

Mapping and Location: Central Alaska

Comment: This vessel is listed Merchant Vessels of the U S (1911) Pg 226, so she may have been salvaged.  WG

Additional Information:  Tonnage 286 Gross 199 Net, IHP 100, Length 120.5, Breadth 24.5, Depth 4.3, Built 1902 at Portland Oregon, Home Port St Michael, ON 161202

Sources: 1. U S Customs Wreck Report, 2. Shipwrecks of the Alaskan Shelf and Shore (1992)

KOYUKUK (1911)     The 260 ton 121 foot stern wheel river steamer Koyukuk foundered in the Tanana River May 12, 1911.  She was valued at $25,000 with cargo at the time of the loss.

Mapping and Location: Central Alaska

Additional Information: Tonnage 260 Gross 149 Net, Length 120.9, Breadth 24.4, Depth 4.1, Service passenger, Crew 15, IHP 100, Built 1906 at Saint Michael, Registered Saint Michael, ON 203496

Source:   1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1911) Pg 226, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1912) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 419

KRISTEN (1984)     The fishing vessel Kristen was consumed by fire and sank January 1, 1984 off of Esther Island Light.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   57 50 45 N 136 26 W   Chart 17303

Comment: There are two Esther Island Lights, one in Prince William Sound and one at the south end of Lisianski Strait.  I used the latter as it seemed more likely.  WG

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KRISTEN (2001)     The 49 foot longline fishing vessel Kristen struck an unknown object, flooded and sank May 11, 2001 approximately 23 miles south of Cold Bay.  All four crewmembers were rescued by the fishing vessel Mr Bill and transported to King Cove.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   55 12 N 162 42 W   Chart 16011

Additional Information: ON 610018

Source: U S C G District 17 Enforcement Report (May 11, 2001)

 

KROLIK (1993)     The 28 foot fishing vessel Krolik flooded and sank September 23, 1993 in Humpy Cove, Resurrection Bay.  The sole occupant of the vessel made it to safety.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   59 58 N 149 18 W   Chart 16682

Additional Information: ON 558184

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

 

KSL CO BARGE NO 7 (1910)     The 23 ton wooden barge KSL Co Barge No 7 sprung a leak, parted her hawser and foundered in Kotzebue Sound at 4 p.m. July 17, 1910.  The wreck report puts the location of the wreck “5 mi. so. of Chancico Island, Kotzebue Sound, Alaska.”   The barge is said to have last sailed from Cape Blossom for “Kewakok”.

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   66 02 N 161 50 W   Chart 16005

Comment: Now Chamisso Island and Kiwalik Village.  WG

Additional Information: Built 1907 at Kiwalik, Registered Nome, ON 163656, Owners Noyes, Daukert, Howland & Reich of Candle, Vessel Value $800, Cargo none

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed by owner Chas. Daukert September 14, 1910 at Nome

KSL CO BARGE NO 4 (1910)     The 23 ton wooden barge KSL Co Barge No 4 parted her anchor line and drifted ashore September 20, 1910 and was lost.  The strong westerly wind and heavy seas forced the barge onto the beach in Willow Bay 12 miles NE of Deering in Kotzebue Sound.  There was no one aboard and no cargo when the vessel drifted ashore.  Charles Daukert, part owner mentioned in the wreck report:

“Expected to get her off this spring but the ice made a total wreck of her during the winter.”

The KSL Co Barge No 4 was valued at $700 with nothing but ballast aboard.  She last sailed from “Kewalik” bound for Deering.  Her owners are listed as Daukert & Reich of Candle

Mapping and Location: West central Alaska   66 05 N 162 21 W   Chart 16005

Additional Information: Built 1906 at Kiwalik, Registered Nome, ON 163653, Master L Reich of Candle

Source: U S Customs Wreck Report filed July 7, 1911 by Daukert at Nome

KU SUN K (1990)     The 32 foot fishing vessel Ku Sun K grounded after being struck by a wave September 14, 1990 in Cannery Bay.  The operator swam to shore in a survival suit and walked to Dutch Harbor.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   53 42 30 N 166 47 30 W   Chart 16500

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KUKUYOSHI MARU NO 15 (1969)     The Japanese fishing vessel Kukuyoshi Maru No 15 grounded and was lost February 1, 1969 on Rat Island in the Aleutian Islands.  The crew was rescued by a U S Coast Guard Helicopter and taken to Amchitka.  There they boarded the Japanese Patrol Boat Erimo and were transported back to Japan.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   51 48 N 178 19 E   Chart 16012

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KUMBACK (1917)     The 37 ton 50 foot gas screw yacht Kumback foundered off of Anchorage December 19, 1917.  The two persons aboard made it to safety.

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

Additional Information: Tonnage 37 Gross 25 Net, Length 50.3, Breadth 15, Depth 6.7, IHP 30, Built 1912 at Burton WA, Registered Seattle, ON 210033

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1921) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 455, 2. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1916) Pg 259

 

KUPREANOF (2015)     The 73 foot steel trawler Kupreanof flooded and sank near Lituya Bay June 10, 2015. The crew abandoned ship in survival suits to a life raft and were rescued by an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Sitka.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   58 36 45 N 137 39 30 W   Chart 16016

Additional Information: Tonnage 137 Gross 93 Net, Length 73, Breadth 22.5, Depth 11.9, Built 1975 Freeport TX, ON 562486, Call Sign WYU9047, Former Name Lancer

Sources: 1. Merchant Vessels of the U S (1979) Pgs 771 & 1926, 2. USCG 17th District News Release (June 10, 2015) “Coast Guard rescues 4 from sinking vessel near Lituya Bay, Alaska”, 3. ADN Alaska News (June 10, 2015) 4 men rescued from sinking Alaska fishing boat”

 

KUPREANOFF (1961)     The 10 ton wooden gas screw Kupreanoff foundered February 5, 1961 at Port Williams.

Mapping and Location: South Central Alaska   58 29 30 N 152 35 W   Chart 16605

Additional Information: Tonnage 10 Gross, Built 1939, ON 232193

Source: Merchant Vessels of the U S (1962) “Vessels Reported Lost” Pg 903

 

KVINGO (1987)     The 38 foot halibut fishing vessel Kvingo foundered in high winds and seas May 5, 1987 off of northwest Coronation Island south of Sitka.  Both crewmembers were rescued by the U S Coast Guard.

Mapping and Location: Southeast Alaska   55 53 N 134 14 W   Chart 17400

Source: BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011)

 

KYOWA MARU NO 11 (1984)     The Japanese stern trawler Kyowa Maru No 11 sank after a collision with the Anyo Maru No 15 February 14, 1984 approximately 120 miles north of Atka.  14 crewmembers were lost and 8 rescued by the Anyo Maru.  Gale force winds, a low ceiling and 25 foot seas hampered the rescue of survivors who were taken to Adak for medical treatment.

Mapping and Location: Southwest Alaska   52 07 N 174 70 W   Chart 16012

Sources: 1. BOEM Alaska Shipwreck List (2011), 2. Augusta Chronicle (February 15, 1984) “Ship Accident Leaves 14 Dead 3 Missing off Aleutians” Pg2A

10 Replies to “Alaska Shipwrecks (K)”

  1. While the King and wing was listed as the oldest in the fleet it was not, the mayflower was still fishing at the time.she was built pre 1900. This is the same boat that hit the Kiska in 1948.

    1. The King and Winge was built in 1914. If the May Flower is the one I think it was, it was a 44 foot gas powered wood hull built in 1891 in Seattle (Official Number 92318) owned by a John N Garner and registered at Ketchikan at the time of the accident with the Kiska.

  2. Thanks for doing a great job. I could not find reference to the fishing vessel Christine which went aground on Montague Island in the early eighties. I removed their crew and took them to Cordova. Also, my father in law, who has passed but would have been about 100 years old now, removed the wheel from a steam tug that was wrecked on Montague Island. I don’t know the year, but am guessing in the 50’s or so. He said the tug was named Atlas, but I don’t see it listed. I wondered if you had any information about wrecks on that Island?

    1. I have no record of the loss of the Christine. It may have been salvaged or just not reported. The steam tug Atlas is also not in my files, but I will continue to search. There have been dozens of wrecks on or near Montague Island over the years including the barge AFL1654 in 1954, Cape Chacon 1987, Cape Spencer 2010, Chignik #1 1908, Chilkoot 1949, Columbia 1904, Days End 1990, Dotty G 1984, Elevera 1917, Evangeline 1998, Guy Junior 1961, Haydn Brown 1912, Leading Lady 1972, Meteor 1953, Northern Belle 2010, P G #1, #4, and #5 1912, Perseverance 1928, Prince William 2006, Puritan 1918, Rocket 1981, S S Viking 1996, Scandia 1920, Sea Fair 1970, Sea Otter 1957, Shinkoku Maru 1923, Swanny 1984, Tiger Lil 1976, Twins 1930, Wilma G 1944 and YR 43 1945.

  3. Looking for info on the FV Kristen. 58′ steel vessel out of homer. Sunk maybe 10 years ago or so. I need tonnage and documentation #. Any help on how to find this would be so appreciated.

    1. The Kristen sank May 11, 2001 about 23 miles south of Cold Bay after striking an unknown object. The four man crew was picked up by the fishing vessel Mr. Bill and transported to King Cove. The official number of the Kristen was 610018. Her overall length was 58 feet but her official lengtn was 49.2 with a gross tonnage of 93 and net of 69. Her call sign was WQZ3938, CFEC ID 365594, ADF&G #37384. Her owner in 2001 was listed as ALEUTIAN ENDEAVOR LLC of Homer.

  4. I witnessed the Kayak sinking in 1980, ironically behind Kayak Island, by Sea Ranger Reef. We were on the Aloha, anchored well behind the island and had been listening to the Kayak talking to the Coast Guard all through the night before. I remember they were towing a barge, which had broken loose in the bad weather. They reported that the only piece of electronics still working was the depth sounder, and that their plan was to follow the 50 fathom edge until morning and then hook behind Cape St. Elias when they could. In the morning, we heard them report that they had made it around the corner and were going to run up the west side of the island to anchor. We figured we’d see them fairly soon, as we had hauled anchor and were heading toward the corner to go back out halibut fishing. As we headed their way, I gradually picked up what looked like a mast in the binoculars. Every few minutes, the skipper, Orrie Bell, and I would take another look. After about 30 minutes of this, I looked again, and the mast was not showing. It was replaced by a round black form; still very small, but suspiciously like a vessel hull. I kept looking for the next few minutes, and then it was gone. Sure enough, it had rolled over and sunk.There was no mayday call or any other indication that they were in trouble, but we knew something had changed dramatically. We couldn’t raise them on the radio, so we called the Coast Guard and told them what we saw. When we got to their location, there were two life rafts in the shallows, too shallow to take the Aloha, so I took our 10′ skiff, with one other deckhand, in and towed them out to the boat. I remember there were 4 people in each raft, and two in the water, all in survival suits. We had to threaten the guys in the water with an oar to keep them from trying to climb in our little skiff. They were pretty scared. We got them aboard the Aloha and later transfered them to the Shirley J, who was headed to Cordova. I remember that Orrie knew the skipper and was surprised to see him. He was an old-timer and they had seen each other that spring in Seattle. The first mate/engineer was from Yakutat and I happened to meet his brothers in Pelican a couple weeks later. Most of the rest of them were cannery workers hired for the season. We found two wooden trunks floating that were full of personal gear and got those back to their owners later that summer. The Kayak had survived the storm, only to come around the corner to calm water and hit Sea Ranger Reef.

    1. Thanks for the perspective Greg. Sea Ranger reef is a “discovery by impact” reef named after the 106 foot wooden bark Sea Ranger that ran up on it in 1893. Alaska has hundreds of reefs that have been “found” in this manner. The vessel that “found” them is very often deposited on the bottom near the reef or pinnacle. Unfortunately, there will be more.

  5. RE: KUMBACK (1917) The 37 ton 50 foot gas screw yacht Kumback foundered off of Anchorage December 19, 1917. The two persons aboard made it to safety.

    The November 27, 1917 issue of the Cordova Daily Times provides a different event date and location:

    Launch Kumback Lost
    Crew Escapes Small Boat

    The launch “Kumback” under charter to the Kachemak Canning company, left Seldovia on the 8th of November for Swanson Creek to take salt and barrels to Halibut Cove. She had fine weather and left Swanson Creek loaded with a hundred barrells. When off Ninilchik, several miles from shore, light northerly wind and sea and snowing at times, the boat began making water so fast the crew could not keep it out. They only had a few minutes to grab the handiest things in sight and get into the small boat. The lights of the “Bumback” went out of sight before they were 100 yards away and they started toward shore. This happened at 10:00 PM on the night of November 11 and on the next forenoon they landed near Anchor Point half frozen but all safe. There were four men aboard and they did not save anything except the clothes they were wearing.

    From all reports it is a case of foundering from structural weakness.

    1. Thankyou for the heads up. I researched this loss and found a number of articles about the Kumback and her activities in Cook Inlet in 1917. The date I used previously came from the Merchant Vessels Reported Lost of 1921. Between the ending of WWI and the Spanish Flu Pandemic, record keeping during this period was sketchy at best. I will update my files ASAP. Thanks again for finding this and letting me know.

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