On the afternoon of February 28, the 64 meter long, 336 dwt ro-ro passenger ferry Gjemnes (IMO: 7814333) ran aground in the Holmestrandsfjorden at Hakan, Norway. The ferry had run up on the rocks off the breakwater and was quickly freed by the crew boat Hørtte (MMSI: 257054700). The Gjemnes proceeded to the terminal where all passengers and vehicles were unloaded. No reports of injuries or pollution released. The NSSR conducted an inspection of the hull and found the ferry was undamaged. The Gjemnes went back into service the next day.
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.
On the morning of February 20, the 190 meter long, 56531 dwt bulk carrier Jia De Chang He (IMO: 9626546) ran aground on the Kiel Canal near Dückerswisch, Germany. The Jia De Chang He was headed for Estonia when it suffered rudder failure and ran onto the embankment. A tug was dispatched and was able to free the bulk carrier. The Jia De Chang He proceeded under its own power with the 24 meter long tug OSK Rendsburg (IMO: 9755567) assisting. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
Reports state the bulk carrier reached Kiel where it moored at the Holtenau anchorage where it will undergo inspection. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
