The ship is carrying thousands of gallons of fuel oil and a full load of canola seed. Engine problems caused it to drift in strong winds and rough waters on Friday.

Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Dana Warr says the ship was able to motor under limited power away from land during the night Friday, and by Saturday morning it was about 35 to 40 miles (56 to 64 kilometers) from Atka Island, reducing fears it would run aground.

Plans call for a powerful tug boat to tow the Golden Seas to port, in Adak or possibly Dutch Harbor. The vessel is managed by Allseas Marine, based in Athens, Greece.