Sanwa Maru
On the evening of January 6, the 105 meter long, 4999 dwt tanker Sanwa Maru (IMO: 9847217 ) ran around off Cape Esan near Hakodate, Hokkaido, Japan. The Sanwa Maru was en route from Tomakomai to Akita with 3800 kilolitres of diesel and kerosene when it stranded on rocks just off the shoreline. Initial reports stated the vessel was stable with no injuries to the 11 crew on board and no oil pollution being released.
The 2906 gt salvage tug Koyo Maru (IMO: 9966348) was dispatched the following morning on January 7 from Muroran to refloat the Sanwa Maru. Multiple attempts to pull the tanker free failed and salvage would resume on January 8. On the morning of the 8th, authorities found the Sanwa Maru had sustained hull damage with one of its fuel tanks holed. Oil booms were placed around the vessel, but some of the oil spilled has spread along the coast reaching the town of Esan. The tanker also has a 5 degree list to starboard suggesting there is water ingress into the tankers ballast tanks as well. Reports state the tanker’s holds are still intact as no diesel or kerosene has been released into the sea.
The Sanwa Maru requested that 7 of the crew be evacuated with the Hakodate Coast Guard transferring the crew safely to shore. Four crew remain on board to assist in salvage efforts. Reports state salvage plans will continue to pull the Sanwa Maru off the rocks and tow it to a nearby port. Reports state local fishermen are concern about the amount of pollution released and its impact on the local environment.
