Built in 1945 by W.F. Kolbe in Port Dover, Ontario, originally as a fish tug, CISCOE was later converted for use as a pilot boat at Port Weller. It measured 75 feet in length and 22 feet in width, with a gross tonnage of 39 and net tonnage of 26.
On December 24, 1983, CISCOE was returning from a renovation project when it encountered engine problems off Port Colborne. In need of assistance, the tugboat called for help, and the Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker GRIFFON responded. At 7:20 a.m., the two-man crew was safely removed from CISCOE, and GRIFFON attempted to take the disabled vessel in tow.
However, an unfortunate turn of events occurred during the towing operation. CISCOE was snagged by the towline, causing it to capsize. The tugboat floated upside down for some time, approximately eight kilometers from the shore, before eventually sinking in the spring. Tragically, there were no reported fatalities in this incident.
The circumstances surrounding the loss of CISCOE raised questions and controversy. According to the crew of the tugboat, they claimed that they were ordered by GRIFFON to abandon their vessel, despite the potential for the mechanical difficulties to be rectified with assistance. They further alleged that GRIFFON‘s attempt to tow CISCOE resulted in the capsizing of the vessel.
The owners of CISCOE were understandably shocked by the turn of events and were left grappling with the aftermath. They sought to determine whether the sunken tugboat could be recovered and whether they could file a claim for damages against the Canadian Coast Guard for their alleged mishandling of the rescue attempt.
Despite the subsequent investigations and discussions surrounding the incident, the exact cause of the towing accident and the subsequent capsize of CISCOE remains the subject of debate. The loss of the tugboat serves as a reminder of the risks and challenges faced by mariners and the importance of careful navigation and towing operations, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
The story of CISCOE highlights the unpredictable nature of maritime operations and the significant impact that towing accidents can have on vessels and their crews. It also underscores the ongoing need for safety protocols, training, and effective communication between vessels involved in rescue operations to prevent further tragedies and losses at sea.
