Coast Guard Crews from Two States Rescue Disabled Vessel Off Oregon Coast

Published 08/10/25 at 5:25 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Newport, Oregon) – U.S. Coast Guard units from across two districts and two states joined forces this week to assist three mariners aboard a disabled fishing vessel drifting nearly 95 miles off the coast of Newport. (Photos courtesy USCG)

The 97-foot vessel Defiant reported it was adrift and in need of help early in the morning on Sunday, August 3. Responding to the call were California coast crews from the Coast Guard Cutter Alder and Air Station Sacramento, while from the Oregon coast came Air Station North Bend, and Station Yaquina Bay. The coordinated effort included two aircraft delivering essential supplies - fresh water, a radio, and a dewatering pump - by Sunday evening.

Due to the vessel’s remote location, watchstanders from the Coast Guard’s Southwest District directed the Alder to initiate a tow. The cutter reached the Defiant Tuesday morning and began towing it toward shore, covering roughly 80 miles. On Wednesday, about 15 miles from Newport, the tow was transferred to a 47-foot Motor Lifeboat crew from Station Yaquina Bay, which safely brought the vessel into port.

“This mission showcased the Coast Guard’s ability to bring together crews, cutters, and aircraft from multiple commands to help mariners in need,” said Lt. Cmdr. Tahnee Zaccano, search and rescue coordinator at the Northwest District. “It’s a testament to the teamwork, skill, and dedication of our Coast Guardsmen.”

In late July, Oregon coast-based USCG personnel joined forces with the Royal Canadian Air Force to rescue a man 180 miles from Astoria who was suffering a medical emergency. Joint Medevac Off Oregon Coast Includes Coast Guard, Canadian Air Force - Video - 180 miles from Astoria: Canadian man rescued

At first, air crews had to wait for better weather. A U.S. Coast Guard MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter from Air Station Astoria launched toward the vessel, joined overhead by a Royal Canadian Air Force CC-295 Kingfisher aircraft from 19 Wing Comox in British Columbia. The Kingfisher crew provided crucial support with real-time weather updates and communication relay.

Both aircraft arrived on scene around 2 p.m. The patient was hoisted aboard the Jayhawk and flown to Air Station Astoria, arriving at 4 p.m. Emergency medical services were waiting to transport him for further care.

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