A massive multinational search and rescue (SAR) operation is underway in the Northern Mariana Islands after the U.S.-flagged general cargo vessel MV Mariana was lost during the passage of Super Typhoon Sinlaku. On Saturday, aircrews located an overturned hull approximately 34 nautical miles northeast of Pagan, approximately 100 nautical miles from the vessel’s last known position.
The MV Mariana, a 47-meter offshore supply vessel converted for dry cargo operations, was a regular fixture on the regional trade route linking Guam, Tinian, and Saipan. The vessel departed Saipan on April 11 with six crewmembers on board, attempting to outmaneuver the approaching storm by heading north.
According to data from the Joint Rescue Coordination Center (JRCC) Honolulu and AIS tracking, the MV Mariana initially loitered in a circular loop east of the islands before resuming a northward track. On Wednesday, April 15, while positioned approximately 140 nautical miles north-northwest of Saipan, the crew reported a starboard engine failure. While the crew remained in good health and maintained an hourly communications schedule initially, the JRCC lost contact with the vessel on Wednesday evening. The last AIS signal was recorded at 14:00 hours local time on Wednesday.
Search efforts were initially hampered by the extreme conditions of Super Typhoon Sinlaku, which generated typhoon-force winds extending 250 nautical miles from its center. A search aircraft dispatched on Thursday was forced to return to Guam due to severe weather.
The search transitioned into a major international effort over the weekend. The discovery of the upturned hull near Pagan has focused the search area approximately 200 nautical miles north of Saipan. While the Coast Guard has worked to confirm the identity of the hull, reports indicate it matches the profile of the missing MV Mariana.
Regional maritime operations remain disrupted, with ports in Saipan, Tinian, and Rota remaining closed. Although the typhoon has tracked northeast, a small craft advisory persists near Saipan with winds holding at 25 knots. Mariners in the Philippine Sea and surrounding waters are urged to maintain a sharp lookout and report any sightings to JRCC Honolulu.
