The Algoma Intrepid Bulk Carrier is outside the Owen Sound harbour.
Algoma Central Corporation has confirmed the ship is waiting for water levels to increase before it sails in. It will deliver some cargo and be in the harbour for a day or so, and then continue on.
Capt. Sean O’Donoughue President of the Georgian Bay-Huronia chapter of the International Shipmaster’s Association, says it’s not uncommon for ships to require ideal wind conditions to restore water levels, and right now winds from the South are pushing the water north to the Killarney side of Georgian Bay.
He says the closest water level gauge is in Collingwood, and it shows a drop of about 20 cms in the water level.
O’Donoghue says when the water moves back, the ship will be able to go into the harbour.
He notes, October and November are when the water levels are lowest in the Great Lakes, and we’re approaching the gales of November.
O’Donoghue says changing water levels are a normal factor that can sometimes affect the activity of ships.