Coast Guard rescues Alaska whale-watching boat

JUNEAU, Alaska, Aug. 1 (UPI) -- A whale-watching boat with 18 people aboard was rescued in Alaska's Favorite Channel, the U.S. Coast Guard reported.

The 35-foot boat Big Red reported it was taking on water Sunday afternoon, and its 16 passengers and two crew members were removed from the boat after life jackets were distributed to the passengers, Lt. Jennifer Ferreira, U.S. Coast Guard Sector Juneau command duty officer said. People aboard a privately operated vessel also aided in the rescue.

Those aboard the boat were taken to the Allen Marine dock to await medical care. Only one minor injury was reported.