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Day: July 26, 2011

Phoenix Off South Africa

Phoenix Off South Africa

The 164 meter long bulk freighter Phoenix went aground in heavy seas in Christmas Bay near Durban, South Africa.  The Phoenix was under the control of a skelton crew as it was headed to India to be scrapped.   As the vessel encountered rough seas, the crew dropped anchor to ride out the bad weather.  However, the anchor line broke and the vessel began to drift towards shore.  A nearby salvage tug attempted to connect a towline to pull the Phoenix to deeper water, but the weather conditions made it impossible.   Waves were 4 to 6 meters and winds reached up to 30 knots.  Pushed by the waves, the vessel struck bottom some 200 meters from the shore.   The NSRI responded sending out three helicopters who airlifted all 15 crew to safety.   A salvage company has already begun operations, but it is likely the vessel will be cut for scrap where it currently rests.

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Salmo Hits Quay

Salmo Hits Quay

The 92 meter long, 3225 dwt freighter Salmo struck the quay while trying to berth at Brake, Germany.   The Salmo’s hull was a small gash which allowed oil to leak out.    The crew was able to recover most of the oil, but 100 liters were released into the lower Weser River.   The Quay suffered some damage to several pilings.    The master was fined 1000 euros and the vessel has been detained in port during the investigation.   No reports of injuries.

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