While the USCG will carefully review the data collected in more detail before issuing a final report, some general comments can be made at this time.

• First, the water was clear enough and the Defender was able to reach the site and get close enough to achieve good visual acuity of the wreck for a thorough inspection.

• At the time of the sinking, the vessel was configured with the trawling equipment stowed in what looked like the proper configuration for a vessel underway.

• There were no observations of any damage that might have compromised the seaworthiness of the vessel or that would contribute to its sinking.