Sank – Shipwreck Log

Lian Hang 7

June 1, 2020 Paul Hancock

On May 30, the 104 meter long cargo vessel Lian Hang 7 sank in the East China Sea off Ningbo, China. The Lian Hang 7 was en route to Zhoushan from Fujian when it suffered hull failure 10 miles off Ningbo. The vessel’s pumps were unable to control the water ingress and the vessel quickly flooded. The crew alerted authorities the vessel was in danger of foundering and needed assistance. Chinese authorities dispatched a rescue boat to the scene. Authorities were able to rescue 13 of the 14 crew on board. One crewman was missing and presumed trapped as the Lian Hang 7 sank until only part of the superstructure remained above the water.

Reports state the area had been impacted by a cyclone, but it was not a factor in the incident. No further details reported.

Le Marie Louis

May 7, 2020 Paul Hancock

The 20 meter long, 50 gt fishing vessel Le Marie Louis sank in the Bay of Biscay near the Isle de Yeu, France. Authorities were alerted by a distress call followed by an automated distress beacon. Helicopters were dispatched from la Rochelle and Lorient and nearby vessels were put on alert. An hour later the fishing vessel Mat Ma Co found four crew of the Le Marie Louis in two life rafts. The survivors were later airlifted by a helicopter and taken ashore. No reports of injuries. Authorities have issued a warning to vessel that the Le Marie Louis had sunk and debris could be in the water.

Artur Paula

May 5, 2020 Paul Hancock

The fishing vessel Arthur Paula caught fire and sank on the Ría del Carreras while berthed at the marina of Isla Cristina, Spain. Reports state the fire started after an explosion on board the Arthur Paula before spreading to nearby trawlers Maria Eduardo and Cortes Canales. The local fire brigade was alerted and were assisted by fire boats to extinguish the blaze.

The Cortes Canales sustained slight damage. The Maria Eduardo and Arthur Paula lines were cut allowing the trawler to drift away from the other vessels. The Arthur Paula eventually burned to the waters edge and sank. The Maria Eduardo was gutted by the fire. Nearby equipment and nets on the dock also sustained damage by the fire.