On the night of August 4, the 292 meter long, 61609 dwt container ship Maersk Gironde (IMO: 9235555) collided with the 200 meter long, 18881 dwt car carrier SFL Composer (IMO: 9293583) in the Samsø Bælt near Hatter Barn reef, Denmark. The Maersk Gironde was headed to Gdansk from Wilhelmshaven when it attempted to overtake the SFL Composer when the vessels collided. Both vessels sustained hull damage above the waterline. The SFL Composer port stern partially crushed in and a large gash almost halfway along its port side hull. Both vessels maintained power with the SFL Composer proceeding to anchor off Sejerø while the Maersk Gironde to Fyns Hoved. There were no reports of injuries on either vessel.

Danish authorities have detained the vessels while both are inspected for seaworthiness. Divers were requested and did an underwater inspection to see if there was any damage below the waterline.  Reports state the SFL Composer was taken under tow by 2 tugs and proceeded to a shipyard for inspection. The Danish Maritime Authority has launched an investigation into the incident.

For other reports from the Danish Maritime Accident Investigation Board, check our growing archive of reports.