Crab Boats Lost In The Bering Sea
The Dangerous yet Lucrative Crab Fishing in the Bering Sea
The Bering Sea is a vast and treacherous body of water known for its harsh weather conditions and unpredictable waves. Despite the risks, the Bering Sea is also a lucrative fishing ground for crab boats looking to catch king crab, snow crab, and opilio crab. The crab industry in the Bering Sea is worth millions of dollars, with crab boats racing against each other to catch the most crabs and earn the most profit.
The Tragic Stories of Lost Crab Boats
However, the pursuit of profit often comes at a cost. Many crab boats have been lost in the Bering Sea, leaving their crews lost or stranded. The story of the F/V Destination is one of the most tragic. The boat went missing in February 2017, and despite a massive search effort, the vessel and its six-person crew were never found. The F/V Destination was a seasoned crab boat, and its disappearance shocked the entire crab fishing community.
Another lost crab boat is the F/V Arctic Hunter. The vessel went missing in 2008, and after a year-long search, only a fuel cell and a life raft were found. The fate of the five-person crew has remained a mystery. Like the F/V Destination, the F/V Arctic Hunter was a well-maintained and well-equipped crab boat, making its disappearance all the more puzzling.
The Dangers of Crab Fishing in the Bering Sea
The unpredictable weather and waves in the Bering Sea are the primary reasons why crab boats get lost. The sea is notorious for its massive storms, some of which can generate waves as high as 50 feet. Crab boats can easily capsize or get tossed around by these waves, leaving their crews in peril. Furthermore, the cold waters can quickly drain a person's strength and lead to hypothermia.
Even with modern navigation equipment, crab boats can still face the risk of getting lost. Storms can damage or disable the equipment, leaving the crew without a way to communicate or navigate. Moreover, the Bering Sea is vast, and it's easy for a boat to get disoriented and lose its bearings.
The Safety Measures and Regulations for Crab Fishing in the Bering Sea
To minimize the risks of getting lost, crab boats must follow strict safety protocols and regulations. The US Coast Guard mandates that all crab boats must carry survival suits, life rafts, and emergency communication equipment. The Coast Guard also conducts regular inspections to ensure that the boats are seaworthy and equipped with the necessary safety gear.
Some crab fishing companies have also implemented additional safety measures, such as conducting regular crew drills and using weather forecasting services. However, the risks of crab fishing in the Bering Sea can never be completely eliminated, and accidents and tragedies will continue to occur.
Conclusion
The crab fishing industry in the Bering Sea is a double-edged sword, providing a livelihood for fishermen while exposing them to dangerous and unpredictable conditions. The lost crab boats and their crews serve as a stark reminder of the risks that come with this lucrative yet perilous occupation. While safety measures and regulations can help mitigate the risks, ultimately, it's up to the individual crews to ensure their safety while navigating the treacherous waters of the Bering Sea.
