UPDATE | Canadian freighter trapped in Lake Erie ice

Brent Jones
January 24, 2025 at 11:28 PM

JANUARY 26, 2025 @ 10:05 A.M. | UPDATE — The Canadian freighter Manitoulin, stuck in Lake Erie ice since Wednesday, was freed Saturday after efforts by U.S. and Canadian Coast Guard icebreakers.

The 663-foot vessel, with 17 crew members aboard, was immobilized near Buffalo by ice over two feet thick but sustained no damage. Officials reported the ship is now en route to its destination in Canada, escorted through 32 kilometres of ice to open water.

JANUARY 24, 2025 @ 11:28 P.M. | ORIGINAL STORY — The Manitoulin, a Canadian freighter, remains stuck in the thick ice on Lake Erie, according to U.S. and Canadian Coast Guard officials.

The 663-foot vessel, with 17 crew members aboard, is visible from Fort Erie’s shoreline.

Credit: Lieutenant-Commander Stephen Nolan | U.S. Coast Guard

It became trapped on Wednesday while returning to Sarnia, Ontario, after delivering a load of wheat. Rapidly forming ice, some areas as thick as 3 to 4 feet, has hindered navigation.

The U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Bristol Bay arrived Thursday to begin icebreaking efforts.

The Canadian Coast Guard Ship Samuel Risley is assisting those efforts through Operation Coal Shovel, a binational initiative to maintain shipping lanes during winter.

Crews have confirmed the freighter has sufficient provisions, fuel, and power. No injuries or damages to the vessel have been reported.

Both Coast Guards plan to continue icebreaking operations Saturday.