Pollution - Shipwreck Log

On March 10, the 30 foot long fishing tug Keep the Change sank on Stokes Bay on Lake Huron at its berth at Howdenvale, Ontario, Canada. The Keep the Change had been tied up the dock for several years when it sprung a leak and partially sank. Reports state the vessel had diesel fuel that leaked out when the vessel suffered water ingress. The vessel owner placed an absorbent boom and pads to collect the pollution while the Canadian Coast Guard deployed a containment boom to prevent the diesel fuel spreading.

On March 13, contractors arrived on site and pulled the fishing tug ashore and removed any remaining fuel and oil on board the vessel. Authorities have stated the likely cause of the sinking was poor maintenance of the vessel.

Reports state this is the third vessel to sink around Stokes Bay in the last year. On September 5, 2024 the fishing tug Gary M sank at the Stokes Bay dock releasing diesel fuel into the water. Authorities stated that 7,000 litres of polluted water was recovered.

Westport

March 19, 2025 Paul Hancock

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.

Provincia del Azuay

March 18, 2025 Paul Hancock

On the early morning hours of March 17, the 30 meter long, 503 dwt tug Provincia del Azuay (IMO: 9654933) sank in the Gulf of Mexico at its berth in Veracruz, Mexico. The tug suffered uncontrolled water ingress during the night. The two crew onboard were unaware until an audible alarm was sounded which left the crew just minutes to evacuate the vessel. The Provincia del Azuay continued to sink until only part of the wheelhouse and mast was still above water.

Authorities, port employees and local fire fighters arrived on scene and began measures to contain any pollution that might be released. Booms and absorbent pads were placed around the wreck to contain any oil pollution. Reports state the tug had only a small amount of reserve fuel in its tanks at the time of the incident. Authorities have stated there will be an investigation into the incident. Cranes will be brought in to lift and refloat the Provincia del Azuay. No reports of injuries.