The Alaska Marine Highway System announced today in a release that the M/V Matanuska will continue to sail its scheduled service after striking the Ocean Beauty Seafoods dock in Petersburg on Monday.

“We are particularly thankful that there were no injuries resulting from the accident,” Michael Neussl, Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities Deputy Commissioner for Marine Operations, said.

The release stated the U.S. Coast Guard inspected the M/V Matanuska after the incident to determine if the vessel had sustained any damage that would require immediate repair before resuming ferry service. No significant damage was found and the ferry was cleared to continue passenger service by the Coast Guard.

According to the release, the exact amount of damage to the seafood processor’s dock is not fully known at this time. An assessment of that is being conducted today.

“This is an unfortunate accident for everyone involved,” Neussl said. “We apologize to Ocean Beauty Seafoods for any disruption this may cause to their operations.”

The release stated the exact cause of the incident is still unknown and under AMHS investigation. According to AMHS, the vessel was maneuvering for their approach to the AMHS terminal with a strong current on their stern. The ferry crew responded appropriately after the accident with their immediate actions and by notifying appropriate authorities. The release stated that personnel on the M/V Matanuska are trained seafarers, and all undergo regular and periodic training in their duties and responsibilities in the event of an incident.

The M/V Matanuska departed Petersburg approximately two hours behind schedule and was able to make up time between ports. The ferry is scheduled to depart on time from Prince Rupert, British Columbia today at 2 p.m. Alaska Standard Time.