Salvage Team Attaches Tow Line from Aiviq to Kulluk

Once again, the Shell drill rig Kulluk has a tow line after a salvage team successfully attached it Sunday afternoon, according to the Unified Command.

The vessel has spent nearly six days near Sitkalidak Island after running aground on New Year’s Eve.

The Unified Command said a tow line was attached from the Aiviq, a vessel used for towing, to the Kulluk around 4 p.m. Sunday and that the Kulluk is ready for transit.

The move could happen Monday, however crews could start the transit overnight if weather conditions become favorable.

The team monitoring the incident said a tow plan was approved Saturday to move the Kulluk from Sitkalidak Island to Kiliuda Bay – roughly 30 miles north.

A 10-member salvage crew and one Shell representative were reported to be on board the Kulluk and will remain on it during the tow.

The tug Alert, from the Prince William Sound, will also assist in the move after connecting to the Kulluk.

Three tugs from Seattle with towing capabilities will also support the transit. The vessels are named the Ocean Wave, Corbin Foss, and Lauren Foss.

The Coast Guard Cutter Alex Haley will escort and a 500-yard radius safety zone will follow the tow until the Kulluk is anchored.

“The exact timing of a potential towing activity will depend on weather, tides and operational readiness,” Shell incident commander Sean Churchfield said during a Saturday news briefing.

This is a developing story. Please check KTUU.com and the Channel 2 newscasts for updates.

Contact Neil Torquiano