On August 21, the 110 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Somtrans XV ran aground on the Rhine near Millingen, Netherlands. The Somtrans XV was en route to Pernis from Tolkamer when the tanker-barge ran up on the left bank. The Somtrans XV remained aground for several hours until it could be refloated late the same day. Authorities inspected the vessel and found there was no damage or pollution released. The Somtrans XV was allowed to proceed on its voyage on to Pernis.
On August 20, the 110 meter long river passenger vessel Douce France ran aground on the Rhine off Cologne, Germany. The Douce France was on a voyage from Koblenz to Amsterdam with 97 passengers and 28 crew when it approached Cologne. As the cruise ship was attempting to berth, it grounded at the bow. Unable to free itself, the crew requested assistance with the self-propelled barge Millennium responding. Authorities blocked traffic on the Rhine while the Millennium pulled the Douce France free.
No reports of injuries or pollution released. Reports state the cause of the grounding was due to the low water levels.
The 28 meter long sailing passenger vessel Koh I Noor ran aground on the aqueduct at Woudsend, Netherlands. The Koh I Noor was attempting to cross over the aqueduct when the vessel struck bottom. An initial investigation found the sailing vessel had too much draught to safely transverse the aqueduct. Authorities are attempting to refloat the Koh I Noor while divers inspect the aqueduct for damage. No reports of injuries or pollution released.