Shipwreck Log

On June 18, the 66 meter long passenger ship Asbach allided with a pier on the Rhine near Boppard, Germany. The Asbach was en route to Koblenz from Rüdesheim  with 100 passengers when it was attempting to berth at Boppard.  The first attempt  to berth was unsuccessful and when the vessel maneovered it smashed into the pier with its bow. The pier was torn away from its anchorage and the Asbach pulled away going downstream.  The Asbach then struck bottom as it avoided striking another vessel berthed along the shoreline. The passenger ship proceeded to Koblenz where it finally berthed. The water police found the master to be intoxicated.  The Asbach had suffered some dents and breaches in the hull, but was allowed to continue on its voyage the following day with a new master. No reports of injuries or pollution released. Reports state damage was estimated to be around 40,000 €.