On August 21, the 80 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Elan ran aground on the Elbe near Hamburg, Germany. The Elan was proceeding on the Elbe with 1200 tons of heating oil and heavy fuel when it grounded near a dike off Hamburg. Authorities were alerted and dispatched vessels to the scene to monitor the situation. An hour later with the rising tide, the Elan was able to refloat itself. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
On August 21, the 110 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Somtrans XV ran aground on the Rhine near Millingen, Netherlands. The Somtrans XV was en route to Pernis from Tolkamer when the tanker-barge ran up on the left bank. The Somtrans XV remained aground for several hours until it could be refloated late the same day. Authorities inspected the vessel and found there was no damage or pollution released. The Somtrans XV was allowed to proceed on its voyage on to Pernis.
On August 20, the 110 meter long river passenger vessel Douce France ran aground on the Rhine off Cologne, Germany. The Douce France was on a voyage from Koblenz to Amsterdam with 97 passengers and 28 crew when it approached Cologne. As the cruise ship was attempting to berth, it grounded at the bow. Unable to free itself, the crew requested assistance with the self-propelled barge Millennium responding. Authorities blocked traffic on the Rhine while the Millennium pulled the Douce France free.
No reports of injuries or pollution released. Reports state the cause of the grounding was due to the low water levels.