On January 20, 55-foot F/V ECLIPSE collided with the Yaquina Bay south jetty. Three crewmen were aboard the vessel at the time of the accident. One crewman was lifted from the vessel by a Coast Guard helicopter and another crewman reached shore by climbing onto the jetty and then making his way to shore. The captain of the vessel stayed aboard and was able to dewater with the assistance of the Coast Guard. The cause of the accident is unknown at this time. Initial reports did not identify any injuries to the crew of the ECLIPSE.
Just a day later, January 21, 62-foot F/V JOE MARIE ran aground on the Chetco Jetty near Brookings, Oregon. Four crewmen were aboard the vessel at the time of the accident and all are reported safe after being rescued from the vessel by a Coast Guard Motor life boat.
The Coast Guard has both incidents under investigation and reminds all mariners that a marine band radio is an important tool to utilize in the event of emergency situation. A mayday message issued through VHF-FM Channel 16 can be heard by other mariners in the area who may be able to provide valuable assistance.