On the afternoon of March 28, the 88 meter long, 2600 dwt cargo vessel Wilson Rotterdam (IMO: 9557381) became disabled in the North Sea near Bergen, Norway. The Wilson Rotterdam was headed to Esbjerg from Porsgrunn when it suffered an engine breakdown and power blackout. The cargo vessel went adrift, but the crew was able to complete repairs and restore power. Reports state authorities had tugs and rescue vessels on standby. Authorities have stated there would be an investigation into the incident.
On the morning of March 14, the 32 meter long, 347 gt tugboat Westport (IMO: 7810026) collided with the 182 meter long, 23623 dwt container ship A. Idefix (IMO: 9354662) in Bahía del Callao off Callao, Peru. The Westport struck the A. Idefix resulting in the tug’s starboard hull being holed. The crew was unable to control the water ingress and the Westport eventually sank by the stern. No reports of injuries or damage on the A. Idefix.
Reports state that 6 crew from the Westport were injured during the incident. The crew would be taken to hospital for treatment. Peruvian authorities placed booms over the site to contain oil pollution released. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
On the early morning of February 19, the 58 foot long fishing vessel Western Gambler ran around in Queen Charlotte Strait some 3 kilometers south of Bella Bella, British Columbia, Canada. The Western Gambler developed a list after the grounding and requested assistance. Canadian Coast Guard dispatched its fast rescue craft from the Bella Bella station which arrived on scene and rescued the 4 crew off the fishing vessel. No reports of injuries.
Photo: victorianow.com
The Western Gambler would continue to list and eventually capsized onto its port hull. Authorities spotted debris and a light sheen on the water. A response team was deployed which placed containment booms along with absorbents around the fishing vessel. Booms were also deployed to protect a nearby hatchery. Reports state the Western Gambler had some 7500 litres of diesel fuel and 1100 litres of hydraulic oil. Reports state the vessel will be salvaged and removed within the week. The cause of the grounding was not disclosed. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
