The 50 meter long, 183 dwt ro-ro ferry Kvernes went aground off Festøya, Hundeidvik, Norway. The Kvernes had just proceeded some 200 meters from the port when it struck bottom. The ferry was unable to refloat itself after attempting to shift vehicles on the deck. The seven passengers were taken back ashore. The vessel is to be released on the next high tide. No reports of injuries or pollution being released. Authorities have stated that alcohol was not a factor in the grounding.
The 85 meter long, 920 dwt freighter Kapitan Kuznetsov was reported missing and was pressumed lost in the Barents Sea near (68 08N 042 30E). The Kapitan Kuznetsov was proceeding to Arkhangelsk, Russia in ballast from Varandei for repair work when it encountered heavy seas reaching 3.5 meters high. An EPIRB signal was received from the freighter by authorities. The Russian Search and Rescue Operation Center dispatched a tug to the scene while aircraft remained grounded due to the severe weather. No distress signal was sent by the crew and the vessel’s last communication was at 0200 Moscow time. Last report stated there has been some debris spotted, but no trace of the 11 crewmen. The Kapitan Kuznetsov was designed to operate in rivers and not in heavy seas.
Update:
Reports state the icebreaker Dikson found the Kapitan Kuznetsov disabled, but still afloat. The crew is reported safe. The Kapitan Kuznetsov had been struck by a wave which knocked out all instruments, communications and rudder control. The mate on board was injured. The vessel is to be towed to Arkhangelsk.
The 90 meter long, 4507 dwt freighter Storoe allided with the embankment on the Kiel Canal between Breiholz and Meckelmoor. The Storoe had lost steering when its rudder failed when it hit the southern embankment. The freighter was able to refloat itself and proceed to Brunsbuettel. An inspection was conducted and the Storoe was allowed to continue on its voyage. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution being released.
