Barge

Fast Ferry Fiasco: The M/V Iyanough's Unexpected Barge Encounter!

⚠️ The M/V Iyanough had a rough Monday in Nantucket Harbor! Find out what happened when a fast ferry met a barge. 🌊🚢 #NantucketNews #ShipAccident

In a surprising turn of events, the Steamship Authority's fast ferry, the M/V Iyanough, bumped into a barge on a sunny Monday in Nantucket Harbor, causing a minor panic and a bit of excitement. The incident left the rear end, or stern, of the ferry with slight damage and caused one round-trip cancellation. Passengers and crew were understandably rattled but, thankfully, there were no injuries reported.

As the ferry made its way through the harbor, the collision brought the usual routine to a sudden halt. The barge, a massive and immovable piece of floating equipment, was stoic and unmoved, while the fast ferry, known for its speed and agility, had to make an unplanned stop. This unexpected encounter has drawn the interest of both local authorities and the general public.

The Steamship Authority swiftly responded to the incident, assessing the damage and assuring passengers of their safety. The M/V Iyanough was quickly taken out of service for repairs, and a backup vessel was deployed to minimize disruption to the ferry schedule. Officials indicated that the cause of the incident was under investigation, and they are working to prevent future occurrences.

Interestingly, the M/V Iyanough is named in honor of a chief of the Native American tribe, the Wampanoag, who lived in the Cape Cod area. This vessel is renowned for its speed, reducing the travel time between Nantucket and the mainland significantly. It's not its first rodeo with accidents, though. In 2017, the ferry famously ran aground during a storm, evidencing that the seas are as unpredictable as ever.

Nantucket Harbor, a bustling maritime hub, sees its fair share of marine traffic, making it a hotspot for nautical mishaps, albeit usually minor. The harbor is picturesque, surrounded by historic buildings and filled with vessels ranging from private yachts to commercial fishing boats. The occasional collision adds a dash of drama to the otherwise serene waters.

The Steamship Authority, established in 1960, is the lifeline for many travelers to and from the islands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. It is crucial in providing reliable ferry service, and despite occasional hiccups like this, it continues to be a trusted mode of transportation for residents and tourists alike.