Ship that sank in Oakland Estuary had environmental mission

The SV Kaisei, a 100-foot sailboat, sank in the Oakland Estuary on Sunday, raising alarms about a potential diesel fuel leak from its 400 gallons on board. A rapid response from the Alameda Fire Department, Coast Guard, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife stabilized the vessel and mitigated immediate environmental risks. Fire crews relocated nearby boats and cut the dock section to facilitate the operation. The Ocean Voyages Institute, which owns the SV Kaisei, believes a collision may have caused the sinking, though the Coast Guard has yet to confirm the cause. Residents expressed concerns, noting the boat had remained docked for years without movement.

Currently, divers are working on the submerged boat, which is visible only by its masts. The cleanup effort is being closely monitored by the Department of Fish and Wildlife. This incident highlights the importance of prompt action in preventing environmental hazards in local waterways.