In this issue

The tools and techniques for salvaging ships improved dramatically in the 20th century with the advent of more powerful pumps and a host of other advancements. The technological changes have continued in the 21st century as the need to safeguard the environment has become as important as the recovery of vessels and their cargoes. In the April issue of Professional Mariner, we examine the new focus and what it takes for salvors to stay on top of their game. Coverage for the month also includes industry concern over potential loopholes in a recent U.S. ruling on the Jones Act; a new study that links depression and anxiety among mariners to an increase in onboard injuries and illnesses; and financial problems at Bouchard Transportation that have stranded ATB crews on two coasts. Plus Capt. Kelly Sweeney’s Mariner’s Notebook and full maritime casualty coverage for the U.S. and Canada.

Signals

Jones Act ruling plagued by ‘potential loopholes,’ industry groups say

3 mins

Study finds depression, suicidal thoughts prevalent among seafarers

While Yale University’s recent Seafarer Mental Health Study paints a sobering picture of life at sea, it also should serve as a catalyst for improvements, industry officials say.

3 mins

Salvors push to dismantle Golden Ray before hurricane season

The vehicle carrier Golden Ray, which capsized in September after leaving Georgia’s Port of Brunswick, remained submerged on its side in mid-February as salvors finalized plans to break it up for removal. The ship was loaded with about 4,200 vehicles when it rolled over.

2 mins

Towing

Tows running Ohio River get big lift at new Olmsted Locks

5 mins

New York tugboat family casts century-long line at sea

After John McKay graduated from high school in 1917 and began looking for a job, one docked at his feet.

7 mins

New Metal Shark duo speeds Lower Miss. pilot transfers

Belle Chasse Marine Transportation (BCMT) began operations in 1977 on the Mississippi River with one crew boat.

2 mins

Casualties

Three dead after collision sinks towboat on Lower Mississippi

4 mins

Lobster boat holes tanker in open-sea collision off Martha's Vineyard

A lobster boat and a loaded tanker collided in open water south of Martha’s Vineyard, Mass., and the Coast Guard is trying to piece together what happened.

2 mins

TSB faults BC Ferries' crew practices in rescue boat accident

The Transportation Safety Board of Canada (TSB) has determined that informal crew practices and insufficient supervision were contributing factors in a training accident on a BC Ferries vessel.

3 mins

New age of salvage puts premium on safeguarding environment

The tools and techniques for salvaging ships improved dramatically in the 20th century with the advent of more powerful pumps, safer diving apparatus and a host of other advancements.

5 mins

Read all stories from Professional Mariner

Professional Mariner Magazine Description:

Tugs, towboats, cargo, government, passenger, spill response, pilot boats, offshore support, salvage, dredge and fireboats - Professional Mariner covers them all. Plus, only Professional Mariner gives you all the essential information you need to advance your maritime business or career including the latest news and in-depth, investigative reporting on maritime casualties, regulations, legislation, shipbuilding, safety, technology, business/management issues and more.