On September 18, the 138 meter long, 12,864 dwt cargo vessel BBC Vermont suffered an explosion while 490 miles off Scilly Isles, United Kingdom. The BBC Vermont was en route to Montoir, France when there was an explosion on board. Reports state one crew person was killed in the blast. The vessel remains under its own power and is proceeding to Montoir. Details on the explosion have not yet been reported.
On February 23, the 35 meter long fishing vessel Calypso Z84 became disabled in the Celtic Sea off Trevose Head, Cornwall, United Kingdom. The Calypso had suffered a broken gear box and gone adrift in heavy seas. The crew requested assistance with nearby fishing vessels and the RNLI lifeboat from Padstow responding. The fishing vessel Soetkin was able to pass a line to the Calypso and begun a tow to Milford Haven. No reports of injuries.
The tow was later to be transferred to the 34 meter long tug Svitzer Caldey when the tug collided with the fishing vessel. Another tug took over and towed the Calypso to Pembroke. An inspection found the Calypso had sustained damage up to the centreline. Reports state the Calypso was taken to a ship yard for repairs. No details to any damage to the Svitzer Caldey.
The 88 meter long, 4161 dwt cargo vessel Vita became disabled in the Celtic Sea near Ushant,, France. The Vita was en route to Puerto de Pasajes from Bremen with 3500 tons of steel when it suffered engine failure and power blackout. The crew requested assistance with the French authorities dispatching a rescue vessel to the scene. The 80 meter long rescue ship Abeille Bourbon arrived on scene and took the Vita under tow. The two vessels proceeded to Brest. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
