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Tag: Bay of Biscay

Billabong

Billabong

Billabong
Photo: premar-atlantique.gouv.fr

On March 24, the 16 meter long fishing vessel Billabong (MMSI: 228380000)  suffered water ingress in the Bay of Biscay off Lann Bihoué, France.  Reports state the fishing vessel requested assistance after discovering uncontrolled water ingress. The SNSM dispatched the rescue vessel SNS 084 assisted by a helicopter from the Marine Nationale. The two crew from the Billabong were winched to safety.  The crew was later taken to Lann Bihoué for evaluation. No reports of injuries.

The fate of the Billabong was not reported. Until authorities provide further information, it is possible the vessel sank or authorities were able to place dewatering pumps on board and towed the vessel back to port.

La Dame de Coeur

La Dame de Coeur

La Dame de Coeur
Photo: sudouest.fr

On the night of February 12, the 11 meter long fishing vessel La Dame de Coeur (MMSI: 9129898) sank in the Bay of Biscay at its berth at Royan, France. The vessel had sprung a leak a few days before and started to list before it sank. Authorities placed booms around the sunken vessel while it dewatered and raised it later the same day.

La Dame de Coeur
Photo: sudouest.fr

Reports state the vessel had been in poor shape for several years. The vessel had been moored against the quay to avoid further damage to the port. There has been no statement if the vessel would be salvaged and all indications point to the La Dame de Coeur to be scrapped.

Agorreta

Agorreta

Agorreta
Photo: g24.gal

On the evening February 1, a fire broke out on the 25 meter long, 238 gt fishing vessel Agorreta (ISO: 8874457) in the Bay of Biscay while berthed at Burela, Spain. The fire started in the galley while there was no one on board.  Fortunately, a witness spotted smoke coming from the fishing vessel and alerted local authorities. Nearby workers attempted to contain the blaze until the local fire brigade arrived on site. Fire fighters eventually extinguished the blaze several hours later. The Agorreta had sustained significant fire damage to the fish hold, bridge, kitchen and crew cabin.  However, the engine room and and much of the rig were saved.  The cause of the fire was not disclosed, but the affected area is where paints, plastics and diesel fuel were stored. There were no reports of injuries.