Browsed by
Author: Paul Hancock

Iron Horse

Iron Horse

Iron Horse
Photo: cheknews.ca

On July 7, the 15 meter long tugboat Iron Horse sank to the bottom in the Discovery Passage in Campbell River marina on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. The tugboat, built in 1945, had been derelict for some years and had suffered water ingress and partially sank in May 2025 before it completely sank in July.

Iron Horse
Photo: shipspotting.com

Port authorities reported that small amount of oil and diesel fuel pollution had been released from the tugboat. The Canadian Coast Guard had the owner remove the majority of the oil and fuel in 2023. The owner of the Iron Horse once lived in a makeshift houseboat tied next to the tugboat. The man was elderly and had moved away some time prior. Authorities state they do not have a current address for the owner.  The Iron Horse had no insurance.

The harbour authorities state they may have to pay for the cost of removing the tug and the pollution cleanup. Estimates could be as high as $100,000 CAN.  The Canadian Coast Guard will not be involved as the Iron Horse was not a navigational hazard and the amount of pollution is minor.

Helga

Helga

Helga
Photo: dieharke.de

On the afternoon of July 8, the 85 meter long self-propelled barge Helga (MMSI: 211670730) allided on the Weser River near Dörverden, Germany. The master of the Helga had lost control of the vessel which struck  a dolphin along the riverbank. The Helga sustained significant damage to the starboard foreship that has been estimated to be in the five-figure range. An investigation by the water policy found the master of the Helga was suffering from health problems which may have contributed to the incident. Authorities stated that alcohol was not a factor.  The water police have detained the Helga from proceeding and the vessel was taken to a nearby mooring. No reports of pollution released.

Helga

Aya Evolution

Aya Evolution

Aye Evolution
Photo: mmpi.gov.hr

On July 7, the 190 meter long, 55869 dwt bulk carrier Aya Evolution (IMO: 9700354) went adrift on the Adriatic Sea at Split, Croatia. The Aya Evolution had broken free of its mooring lines during a severe storm. The bulk carrier drifted away from its berth into the harbour. Fortunately, a tugboat was able to keep the Aya Evolution from striking the pier or any other vessel.  The tug assisted the bulk carrier back to its berth. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.