Eco Wizard

Eco Wizard

Eco Wizard

On July 6, the 180 meter long, 30062 dwt LPG tanker Eco Wizard (IMO: 9941568) exploded in the Gulf of Finland while berthed at the port of Ust-Luga, Russia. The Eco Wizard had arrived from Antwerp, Belgium and had begun unloading and loading operations. Authorities state an explosion occurred during these operations resulting in a leak of liquid ammonia. All 23 crew were evacuated from the tanker while emergency personnel attempted to contain the leak.  Authorities did not disclose the extent of damage to the Eco Wizard, but divers are set to inspect the hull for damage. The Eco Wizard is suspected to belong to Russia’s “shadow fleet” and there is some speculation the explosion was an act of sabotage.

Rembrandt van Rijn

Rembrandt van Rijn

Rembrandt van Rijn
Photo: web.de

On the evening of July 2, the 110 meter long self-propelled passenger ship Rembrandt van Rijn (MMSI: 244630436) allided on the Moselle River at Treis-Karden, Germany.  The Rembrandt van Rijn was proceeding upstream when it struck the bridge in Treis-Karden. The Rembrandt van Rijn sustained significant damage to its wheelhouse with 2 crew members injured during the incident and later taken to hospital for treatment.  There were no reports of injuries to the 110 passengers on board. All passengers were disembarked nearby to take alternative transportation.

The water police have launched an investigation into the incident. Initial reports state the passenger ship had taken the wrong passage under the bridge and struck one of the bridge’s arches. An inspection of the bridge found it had no major damage. The Rembrandt van Rijn was expected to complete temporary repairs so that it can be taken to a shipyard in Cologne for an overhaul.  Reports state that damage to the vessel was in the five-figure range.

 

Elegant Lady

Elegant Lady

Elegant Lady
Photo: schuttevaer.nl

On the afternoon of July 2, the 110 meter long passenger ship Elegant Lady (MMSI: 207072229) allided on the Moselle River at Sankt Aldegund, Germany. The Elegant Lady was proceeding downstream when it entered the lock and struck the lock gate. The lock gate sustained significant damage resulting in the gate being inoperable. The lock would be required to be closed. The Elegant Lady sustained only minor damage and was able to proceed under its owner power to a mooring just outside the Sankt Aldegund lock.  Three people on board the passenger ship were injured during the incident. No reports of pollution released.

Reports stated that over 50 vessels queued near Sankt Aldegund waiting for passage through the closed locks. On July 4, authorities reported that vessels travelling downstream will be allowed to pass through the locks. The gate will be inspected after each vessel passes through the lock slowing traffic to 1 vessel per hour. Upstream vessel traffic was slated to return in a few days. Authorities stated a new gate had been plan before the incident and is slated to be installed in late September.