On February 7. the 130 meter long, 7697 dwt tanker Aster Alvar ran aground off the Çınarcık beach in the Sea of Marmara.  The Aster Alvar was underway in the Sea of Marmara when it suffered engine failure.  Without power, the tanker was pushed by strong winds until it ran aground just short of the shoreline.

Authorities were alerted and dispatched two tugs to the scene.  The tugs were able to refloat the Aster Alvar and took the tanker under tow to a nearby shipyard.  The Aster Alvar was later inspected for damage. Reports state no injuries, damage or pollution released.