Sinking Barge Grounded Off Narragansett Refloated But Danger Remains: USCG

NARRAGANSETT, RI — The sinking barge intentionally grounded off Narragansett has been refloated but the Coast Guard still warned boaters to avoid the area.

The refloated barge carrying pilings to Boston Logan International Airport was under tow to a commercial facility in Quonset after its void spaces were dewatered, according to a Coast Guard media release.

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"The Coast Guard is actively coordinating with the contracted salvage company to locate and properly mark the submerged pilings to warn boaters of the underwater obstructions," the release said.

"Upon arrival in Quonset, crews will re-secure the remaining cargo and prepare the vessel for a comprehensive inspection," per the release.

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"Sector Southeastern New England is urgently advising all boaters and marine traffic to keep clear of the area until further notice via a Broadcast Notice to Mariners and the Local Notice to Mariners," the release said. "While initial assessments show no visible indication of structural damage to the barge itself, a full inspection will be required."

The tugboat Challenger was towing the barge to Boston when the barge started taking on water and listing about 1:45 p.m. Sunday, according to the Coast Guard.

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"The tug proactively made the decision to intentionally soft ground the barge in the vicinity of Bonnet Shores in Narragansett ... and prevent it from sinking or blocking the channel," the Coast Guard said.

"The situation is under investigation," according to the release.

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"The Coast Guard continues to closely coordinate response efforts with the barge operator, the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), and the designated salvage company," the release said. "Following the recovery of the lost cargo and the completion of all required inspections, the barge will resume its transit to Boston."

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