On September 12, the 66 meter long, 2018 dwt offshore supply vessel AM Pride (IMO: 9359167) caught fire some 48 nautical miles south of Mossel Bay, South Africa. The fire started in the vessel’s galley and quickly got out of control. The vessel contacted its owner who relayed the distress call to the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA). Authorities broadcasted an alert to nearby vessel to assist the AM Pride.

Before any vessel’s arrived on scene to assist the AM Pride, the crew of the offshore vessel abandoned ship into life rafts. The vessel’s owner dispatched a helicopter to the scene and were able to rescue all 15 crew members. Reports state there were strong winds and high swells that made the rescue effort difficult, but no reports of injuries.

Authorities report the AM Pride will be taken under tow by a tug to a secure location.  No details reported on extent of damage of the fire and if any pollution had been released.