On August 22, the 183 meter long combination self propelled barge Calypso and cargo barge Calypso 2 (IMO: 244740744) collided with 136 meter long self-propelled container-barge Sarina (MMSI: 244630697) on the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal off Tiel, Netherlands. The cargo barge Calypso 2 had broken free and drifted into the path of the Sarina. The collision resulted in minor hull damage for both vessels. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
Reports state authorities has launched an investigation into the incident.
On August 21, the 274 meter long, 163,759 dwt oil tanker Sounion (IMO: 9312145) caught fire in the Red Sea some 77 nautical miles off Hodeidah, Yeman. The Sounion was enroute to Iraq with 150,000 tons of crude oil when it was approached by two small vessels off Yemen. The vessels approached the tanker within a few miles before they turned away after an exchange of small arms fire. Soon after the Sounion was struck by multiple projectiles resulting in explosions and fire on board the tanker. Reports state the engine room sustained material damage disabling the steering. The Sounion went adrift for a short time before the crew was later able to drop anchor.
Conflicting reports state the crew of 25 on board the Sounion remained on board the tanker to assess damage. However, there are reports that the crew had abandoned ship in the vessel’s lifeboat and was rescued by the nearby vessel. This same report stated the crew was later transported to Dijbouti. No reports of the extent of damage caused by the projectiles on board the Sounion or if any oil pollution had been released.
The attack on the Sounion was not an isolated event. The 190 meter long, 55989 dwt bulk carrier SW North Wind (IMO: 9514004) reported five explosions near the vessel while 57 miles off Aden. The explosions did not cause any damage and there were no reports of injuries. The bulk carrier was able to continue on its voyage.
On August 21, the 12 meter long ro-ro passenger ferry St. Michael (MMSI:211664940) became disabled on the Rhine at Hitdorf, Germany. The St. Michael suffered a mechanical breakdown with the failure of the vessel’s gearbox. The ferry was taken out of service until repairs can be completed. Reports state the St. Michael should be inspected and back in service within a few days. No reports of injuries or pollution released.