The 185 meter long cattle carrier Al Messilah suffered a mechanical failure after leaving Port Adelaide bound for the Middle East with 67,000 sheep. The Al Messilah, known for suffering mechanical problems, is one of the oldest vessels used in the export of live animals. The Al Messilah is back in Port Adelaide for repairs. Authorities are monitoring the sheep to ensure they remain healthy.
The 40 meter long passenger ship Abel Tasman went aground on the Prinses Margrietkanaal, a waterway navigable for vessels between Groningen and Lemmer, with 93 passengers on board. The Abel Tasman was pushed aground by strong winds while heading towards Starteiland. Passengers were transferred to a ferry which landed them at Sneek. Local authorities aided in evacuating all the passengers. No reports of injury. The passenger ship was pulled freed by a tug the next day.
The 197 meter long, 34,942 dwt freighter Angel 1 went aground on the reefs off Poudres-d’Or, Mauritius. The Angel 1 was loaded with 30,000 tons of rice bound for the Ivory Coast suffered an engine failure on Friday. The master decided he could not proceed, the vessel slammed into the coral reef. Later reports state there is a leak, but hull inspections were unable to reveal the source of the water ingress. Authorities have responded by having the fuel on board the Angel 1 to be pumped out before any could leak causing an ecological disaster. A salvage team from Greece has been requested to help pull the freighter free. No reports of injury of the 28 crew on board.
