On 12/14/1996, the vessel FEDERAL CALUMET (Official Number 725425) was involved in a grounding - under power (non-intentional) in PORT CARTIER, QUE.,.
The vessel, with 21 persons on board, experienced the incident while engaged in regular operations. Fortunately, the ship was able to continue its voyage. No injuries or fatalities were reported, and there was none pollution.
This incident was officially recorded by Transport Canada on 12/16/1996. Weather at the time was reported as snow with winds from the NE at 25.00 knots.
On 14 December 1996, the "FEDERAL CALUMET" was shifting from the Uniforêt Dock to an anchorage to await better weather conditions before completing loading. With a pilot on board and two tugs assisting, the ship departed at about 1225. The tugs were to turn the vessel quickly onto an appropriate easterly heading, giving her a clear run into the prevailing sea and swell. High and confused seas, and a northeast gale, prevented the aft tug from performing the manoeuvre as planned, and the ship drifted to the south. At about 1231, it was noticed that the ship did not appear to be moving or responding to engine or tug movements. The ship was found to have grounded in way of the No. 3 starboard double-bottom tank. The tugs held her in this position until the rising tide refloated her at about 1400. The vessel then proceeded, unassisted, to Sept-Îles, Quebec, for damage assessment and repairs.