Into the Depths: The Tragic Disappearance of Arthur Ganacias and the Sinking of the F/V Scandies Rose

A Seasoned Mariner Lost to the Sea

Arthur P. Ganacias, born on November 26, 1969, was a seasoned mariner with decades of experience in the treacherous waters of the Bering Sea. Known for his dedication and expertise, Ganacias served as the engineer aboard the F/V Scandies Rose, a 130-foot crab fishing vessel. His career was marked by a deep commitment to the demanding and often perilous world of commercial fishing. Tragically, on December 31, 2019, Ganacias was among five crew members who went missing when the Scandies Rose sank off the coast of Alaska.

The Fateful Voyage

The Scandies Rose departed Dutch Harbor, Alaska, on December 30, 2019, embarking on a routine crabbing expedition. The vessel was well-equipped and manned by an experienced crew, including Captain Gary Cobban Jr., his son David Lee Cobban, Arthur Ganacias, Brock Rainey, and Seth Rousseau-Gano. However, as the vessel navigated the icy waters near Sutwik Island, it encountered severe weather conditions, including 40 mph winds and 20-foot seas. These conditions led to the vessel developing a heavy list to starboard, ultimately resulting in its capsizing and sinking.

The Rescue Effort

Upon receiving a distress call at approximately 10 p.m. on December 31, the U.S. Coast Guard launched a massive search and rescue operation. The effort included four MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crews, two HC-130 Hercules airplane crews, and the Coast Guard Cutter Mellon. Despite the challenging conditions, two crew members, Dean Gribble Jr. and John Lawler, were rescued from a life raft in the early hours of January 1. They were treated for hypothermia at a hospital in Kodiak but sustained no other serious injuries.

The Aftermath

The search for the remaining five crew members, including Arthur Ganacias, continued for over 20 hours, covering approximately 1,400 square miles. Despite the extensive efforts, no additional survivors were found, and the search was suspended on January 2. The loss of the Scandies Rose marked one of the deadliest accidents in the Bering Sea crab fleet since the 2017 capsizing of the F/V Destination. ...Read More

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