Northwestern’s Road to Recovery: Overcoming Setbacks and Restarting the Season
After a challenging setback, the Northwestern is back in action, resuming its crab fishing journey off the coast of Alaska. The 125-foot vessel faced a daunting challenge when it was severely damaged by fire, leaving the crew uncertain about its fate. But thanks to quick and efficient repairs, the boat is once again on its own power, ready to tackle the seas and haul in the prized crab.
Temporary Fix, Big Hope
Captain Sig Hansen, a veteran of the Northwestern, inspects the newly repaired electrical panel, which, while not permanent, will help the vessel make it through the rest of the season. “This is temporary, but at least it’ll get us through the season,” Hansen remarks. After the fire, the boat was left idle, and there was a serious question of whether it could make it back to full working order.
A key milestone is reached when the crew starts up the electrical system. “We’re getting everything started up here,” says Captain Hansen. “If everything passes the test, we’ll head out of here.” After a nerve-wracking moment when they switch from shore power to the boat’s own electrical system, the moment of truth arrives. The lights flicker on and the systems hum to life. “We’re going to be okay,” Hansen says with a sense of relief.
