The 84 meter long ro-ro passenger ferry Hardingen ran aground just off the quay at Sunnhordland, Norway. The ferry was approaching at too fast of speed when the master directed the Hardingen to run aground to avoid striking the quay. A tug was requested and was able to refloat the ferry on the rising tide a few hours later. No reports of injuries to the 19 persons on board. Divers inspected the hull and found the Hardingen had suffered some damage to its rudder. No pollution released.
On January 4, the 27 meter long fishing vessel Kim Roger became disabled before sinking near Lofotodden, Norway. The Kim Roger had suffered engine failure and went adrift in heavy seas. With waves reaching up to 5 meters high, the fishing vessel suffered water ingress and heeled over on its port side. The gale force winds also pushed the Kim Roger towards shore. The five crew on board alerted authorities with a rescue helicopter and lifeboat dispatched to the scene. Before the helicopter was able to hoist the men to safety, the crew fell into the water. Luckily, the helicopter was able to lift all five crew from the sea to safety. The crew were later taken to hospital. No reports of injuries. The Kim Roger later sank just offshore the coast.
On January 3, the 95 foot long fishing vessel Megan Marie became disabled off Nantucket, Massachusetts. The Megan Marie had lost a rudder some 100 nautical miles off Nantucket and sent out a distress call. Another fishing vessel came to her aid and began towing the Megan Marie back to port, but rough seas broke the tow line. The Coast Guard Cutter Spencer took over the tow and proceeded to Nantucket. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.