Collision on Western Scheldt

On the afternoon of May 30, the 170 meter long container ship Containerships Nord (IMO: 9813993) collided with the 110 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Beringzee (MMSI: 205508590) on the Western Scheldt near Paal, Netherlands. The two vessels had departed from Antwerp when the Containerships Nord struck the stern of the Beringzee. The Beringzee sustained significant hull damage to the starboard section of the stern with the wheelhouse and living quarters suffering water ingress.
One Beringzee crew member fell overboard and sustained serious injuries. The crew member was transferred to a police boat and later airlifted by helicopter to hospital. There were no reports of injuries or damage to the Containerships Nord.
To keep the the damaged Beringzee afloat, the two self propelled barges the 80 meter long Kevalia (MMSI: 226001810) and 110 meter long Verity (MMSI: 205383490) came to the aid and help stabilized the tanker-barge. Authorities have placed oil booms around the Beringzee as some oil pollution could be seen around the vessel. Reports state two tugs took the Beringzee under tow on May 31 and proceeded to Terneuzen. The Containerships Nord proceeded under its own power to Flushing where it was inspected. The incident is being investigated by authorities.