A Canadian freighter, the Manitoulin, was freed from ice on Lake Erie and is now heading to Canada. The U.S. Coast Guard reported that the vessel had been trapped for several days after delivering a load of wheat in Buffalo, New York. It was successfully released on Saturday, January 25, 2025.
- Freighter Manitoulin trapped in Lake Erie
- Icebreaking efforts by U.S. Coast Guard
- Crew of 17 reported safe and unharmed
- Journey to Sarnia, Ontario planned next
- Monitoring conducted by U.S. Coast Guard helicopter
The Manitoulin is a 663-foot (202-meter) freighter that encountered thick ice while returning to Canada after its delivery in Buffalo. The U.S. Coast Guard began efforts to free the ship on Thursday with one icebreaking vessel and later deployed a second ship along with assistance from the Canadian Coast Guard.
Key details include:
- The freighter had 17 crew members who were unharmed during the incident.
- It was escorted through over 20 miles (32 kilometers) of ice before reaching open water.
- A U.S. Coast Guard helicopter monitored the situation throughout the operation.
After being freed, the Manitoulin must navigate through additional icy areas of Lake Erie and up the Detroit and St. Clair rivers to reach Sarnia, Ontario, where it will remain for winter. Lt. Kyle Rivera noted that although there are still icy conditions ahead, another cutter will assist in safely guiding the vessel through these waters.
The successful rescue of the Manitoulin highlights both the challenges faced by freighters during winter months and the coordinated efforts between U.S. and Canadian authorities in ensuring maritime safety in icy conditions.
