On January 18, the 190 meter long, 7100 dwt ro-ro ferry Petersburg allided with the pier at Sassnitz, Germany. The Petersburg had arrived from Mukran when it struck a ramp at the ferry terminal. The vessel’s stern ramp sustained major damage estimated over 100,000 Euros. No reports of injuries to passengers or crew and no pollution was released. Reports state the master of the vessel faces criminal charges while the vessel was evaluated to be redirected to be repaired at a nearby shipyard.
After four days, the 68 meter long minesweeper USS Guardian has remained stuck on Tubbataha Reef. Rough weather has pushed the vessel further up onto the coral reef. Initially stranded at the bow, the USS Guardian now rests broadside to the reef with the starboard hull on the reef. The Navy reports that the hull has begun to list to port and there is evidence the vessel has suffered water ingress. However, no signs of oil pollution yet being released.
Photo: Philippine Navy
Along with several US Navy vessels, Philippine Coast Guard and a salvage tug remain on scene. Forecasts show high winds and 2 meter waves in the area to continue for several more days preventing containment booms being deployed. A lighter vessel is scheduled to arrive on scene with oil recovery equipment.
The Navy has reported that a major factor to the cause of the grounding was an error on a digital chart. The paper copy of the chart along with other digital charts correctly showed the reef location, but the one digital version on the USS Guardian had anomaly. Naval authorities have stated that the investigation into the grounding will continue looking at other potential factors.
The 183 meter long, 44377 dwt bulk freighter Jahan Moni allided with two vessels while berthing at Novorossiysk, Russia. The Jahan Moni was maneuvering towards the dock when it suffered engine failure. The freighter drifted into the 160 meter long, 24228 dwt freighter Blue Image and 172 meter long, 31751 dwt bulk freighter UBC Stavanger. No reports of injuries. All three vessels suffered minor damage. No further details reported.
