The 138 meter long, 52289 dwt bulk freighter Ocean Breeze went aground near San Antonio, Chile.   The vessel had been at anchor near the port when stormy weather struck the area.   The Ocean Breeze’s anchor began to drag until the bulk carrier went hard aground on a sandbank close to shore.  Tugs had attempted to pull the vessel into deeper water, but the heavy swells pushed the vessel until it was 300 yards off shore.   The Chilean Navy dispatched a helicopter to the scene and were able to safely rescue all 24 crew members on board.    Reports state there is a significant risk that the vessel will sustain damage and possible pollution being released as the Ocean Breeze is battered by the heavy seas over the next few days.  No salvage attempts will be made until the weather conditions improve.   The Ocean Breeze was en route to San Antonio from Arica with a cargo of wheat and soy beans.

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