(JUNEAU, Alaska) – The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) announced today that the M/V Matanuska continues to sail its scheduled service after the May 7 “allision” with the Ocean Beauty Seafoods dock in Petersburg, Alaska.

“We are particularly thankful that there were no injuries resulting from the accident,” said Michael Neussl, Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities Deputy Commissioner for Marine Operations.

Shortly after the incident U.S. Coast Guard inspected the M/V Matanuska to determine if the vessel had sustained any damage that would require immediate repair before resuming ferry service. No significant damage was found and the ferry was cleared to continue passenger service by the Coast Guard.

The exact amount of damage to the seafood processor’s dock is not fully known at this time.  An assessment of that is being conducted Tuesday, May 8, 2012.

“This is an unfortunate accident for everyone involved,” said Neussl. “We apologize to Ocean Beauty Seafoods for any disruption this may cause to their operations.”

The exact cause of the incident is still unknown and under AMHS investigation.  The vessel was maneuvering for their approach to the AMHS terminal with a strong current on their stern.  The ferry crew responded appropriately after the accident with their immediate actions and by notifying appropriate authorities. The personnel on the M/V Matanuska are trained seafarers, and all undergo regular and periodic training in their duties and responsibilities in the event of an incident.

The M/V Matanuska departed Petersburg approximately two hours behind schedule and was able to make up time between ports. The ferry is scheduled to depart on time from Prince Rupert, British Columbia May 8, 2012 at 2 p.m. Alaska Standard Time.

An “allision” is a maritime term for when a moving vessel strikes against a stationary object.

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (DOT&PF) oversees 254 airports, 11 ferries serving 34 communities, 5,700 miles of highway and 660 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of DOT&PF is to “Get Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.”

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