A Routine Voyage Turned Disaster
On August 5, 1910, the steamship Princess May, operated by the Canadian Pacific Railway, set sail from Skagway, Alaska, bound for Vancouver. While navigating the treacherous waters of Lynn Canal, the vessel suddenly ran aground on the rocky reef near Sentinel Island, Alaska.
Perched on the Edge
The ship came to a dramatic stop, with its bow raised high above the water and its stern partially submerged. The scene was startling; the Princess May balanced precariously on the reef, creating an iconic image that was widely photographed and publicized.
A Remarkable Rescue Effort
Despite the perilous position of the ship, all 80 passengers and 68 crew members were safely evacuated. Lifeboats were deployed swiftly, and nearby vessels arrived to assist, ensuring that there were no fatalities or serious injuries.
Salvaging the Ship
Engineers and salvage crews worked for over a month to free the Princess May. Eventually, they succeeded in refloating the vessel and towing it to port for repairs. The steamship returned to service, but its grounding remains a notable maritime incident in Alaskan waters.
Stuck on the Reef 🪸
A Routine Voyage Turned Disaster
On August 5, 1910, the steamship Princess May, operated by the Canadian Pacific Railway, set sail from Skagway, Alaska, bound for Vancouver. While navigating the treacherous waters of Lynn Canal, the vessel suddenly ran… pic.twitter.com/6cuvgReh7G— Detective Tiger’s Stories (@TigerDetective) October 13, 2024