The 89 meter long, 4614 dwt freighter Esmeralda became disabled in the North Sea near Ijmuiden, Netherlands. The Esmeralda was en route to France from Poland when it suffered engine failure. Two tugs were requested and towed the freighter to Ijmuiden for repairs. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
The 80 meter long, 2080 dwt fishing vessel San Nikunau caught fire while berthed at Auckland, New Zealand. The blaze was ignited by a welding spark in the engine room. Local firefighters arrived on scene and were able to contain the blaze within an hour. Reports state the vessel suffered only minor damage. No reports of injuries to the 40 crew on board at the time.
Reports state the cause of the grounding was due to brown bears. The master of the vessel attempted to maneuver the Baranof Wind closer to allow passengers to see one or more bears spotted along the shoreline. After viewing the bears, he attempted to steer back into deeper water, but struck a rock instead. The Coast Guard dispatched a helicopter to the scene with a dewatering pump. The vessel was scheduled to be taken back to Sitka where it will be repaired. No comment from the bears.
