Two vessels operated by WSDOT Ferries Division were diverted from service on their San Juan Islands routes around noon on June 23, to assist a vessel that ran aground near Shaw Island.

The Sealth and the Evergreen State both were asked by the U.S. Coast Guard to remain on the scene to assist in rescuing passengers. Both vessels returned to service just after 1:00 p.m.

The 133-foot Adventuress, a schooner owned and operated by the local nonprofit organization Sound Experience, ran aground at approximately noon in Wasp Pass, between Orcas and Shaw Islands. The Sealth was in the process of loading vehicles and passengers at the Orcas Island terminal for the 12:05 p.m. departure when the U.S. Coast Guard asked the ferry’s crew to come to the assistance of the grounded vessel.

The ferry Evergreen State was also asked to assist as it was heading for a stop at Orcas Island with a full load of vehicles and passengers. Both ferries launched rescue boats to assist the grounded sailing vessel.

The Sealth along with Vessel Assist removed all of the 27 passengers and crew safely from the vessel. No injuries have been reported.

Coast Guard Air Station Port Angeles launched an MH-65C Dolphin helicopter crew to the scene as well as a rescue boat crew from Coast Guard Station Bellingham.

The Coast Guard will conduct an investigation into the cause of the grounding, which is unknown at this time.

No pollution has been reported.