On May 3, the 200 meter long, 63276 dwt bulk carrier Pilatus Venture ran aground on the Parana River near Ramalla, Argentina. The Pilatus Venture was headed downstream bound for Tauranga when it stranded on a bank. Initial attempts to refloat itself have failed. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. Reports state the bulk carrier has partially block traffic at Ramalla.
The 767 foot long, 25345 dwt self-unloading bulk carrier Kaye E. Barker became stranded in ice on Lake Superior near Picnic Rocks. The bulk carrier was en route to the ore dock in Marquette when it became stuck in thick ice. The vessel requested assistance with the Coast Guard Cutter Mackinaw arriving the following day and broke up the ice around the Kaye E. Barker allowing the vessel to continue on its voyage. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. Reports state strong winds earlier in the week had compressed the ice field.
On April 15, the 75 meter long bulk carrier Royal 09 allided with a bridge on the Đồng Nai River in Bien Hoa City, Vietnam. The Royal 09 had been at anchor when a technical fault cause the vessel to break free from its anchor. Being pushed by the rising tide and strong winds, the Royal 09 drifted upstream and struck the Đồng Nai Bridge. The bulk carrier became wedged against the bridge until three tugs were able to pull the vessel free. The Đồng Nai Bridge sustained only minor damage and traffic resumed a short time later. No reports of injuries to the 9 crew on board. No further details reported.
