The crew of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Naushon rescued four mariners after their 48-foot commercial fishing vessel, Soulmate, became disabled and adrift about 57 miles west of Kodiak Island, south of Shelikof Strait, Alaska, Sunday.

According to a press releas, the Homer based Naushon crew towed the mariners to Lazy Bay cannery, Alitak Bay. On Saturday, June 2, Coast Guard Sector Anchorage received a report from the master of the vessel reporting that the Soulmate was disabled, adrift and unable to anchor. Initial communications via VHF radio were unreliable. Watchstanders initiated a 6-hour communications schedule with the master via satellite phone and requested the diversion of the Naushon crew.

“This case highlights the importance of having multiple means of communications,” said Petty Offficer 1st Class Michael Taylor, a Sector Anchorage watchstander. “The availability of both a VHF radio and a satellite phone on board the vessel allowed for consistent communication with the master providing up to date information and situational reports.”

Weather on scene was reported as 15-mph winds and 11.5-mile visibility.