Collision at Rotterdam
The 110 meter long tanker Galileo and 135 meter long, 4120 dwt tanker Zuidzee collided near the Kreekrak Lock at Rotterdam, Netherlands. The two tankers were approaching the lock in poor visibility when they collided head-on. Both the Galileo and Zuidzee suffered significant damage to their hull on the port side. A third vessel was forced to run aground to avoid collision with the two vessels. The 110 meter long tanker Mezzoforte, loaded with ethylbenzene, was able to steer clear of the other vessels, but went aground on the nearby shoreline. The Mezzoforte was later pulled off and will be inspected by divers. Both the Galileo and Zuidzee were detained by the water police. No reports of injuries or pollution being released.
