The Unified Command has announced that all 95 containers that went overboard during the incident at Pier G in the port have been retrieved as of September 26, 2025, reports AJOT.
Initial estimates of the number of containers were later revised upward, as some units were crushed, submerged, or hidden from view in the adjacent boat basin.
At approximately 3:28 p.m. on that day, the final container was lifted from the water, marking the completion of salvage operations for the incident.
“Every decision … was centered on safety — whether it was divers working to recover containers in the basin or around the hull … evaluating vessel transits through the safety zone, or crews conducting container operations day and night,” said the Coast Guard incident commander.
The salvage effort brought in experts from across the country and was conducted in close coordination with port officials and partner agencies. Within a few weeks, the complex operation was concluded and safe operations were restored.
Key Response Actions Taken
- Side-scan sonar and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) were deployed to help locate submerged containers.
- Dive teams were used to inspect the vessel’s underside and assist in recovery of containers around the hull.
- Tug, pilot vessels, and line handlers were repositioned to access containers trapped beneath the hull.
- A safety zone initially set at 500 yards was reduced to 100 yards as operations progressed. Hourly marine safety broadcasts kept mariners informed.
Until salvage operations concluded, vessel traffic restrictions were in place. After dive operations ended on September 26, the restrictions were lifted and vessels no longer require special approval to transit near Pier G. During the salvage period, 142 vessel transits were authorized to ensure continued port activity.
With the completion of recovery and dive operations, the pollution response, salvage, and marine transportation system recovery teams have been demobilized. Terminal operations at Pier G have been fully restored, and port traffic is now proceeding without restrictions.
“This was an extremely rare event that required a complex and unique salvage operation … We are grateful to all involved for expediting a safe and speedy return to normal operations,” said the port’s incident commander for the response.
Investigations into the cause of the incident are being led by the Coast Guard and the National Transportation Safety Board.
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Source: AJOT
