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Tag: Chile

Spar Indus

Spar Indus

Spar Indus
Photo: Chile Navy

On the early morning of November 13, the 200 meter long, 63,800 dwt bulk carrier Spar Indus (IMO: 9734991) ran aground in the Gulf of Arauco some 3.5 nautical miles off Punta Cochinos, Santa Maria Island, Chile. The Spar Indus was en route to Cabo Froward (Coronel) from Santos, Brazil when is stranded.

Authorities dispatched a response team to scene to determine the status of the vessel and begin an investigation into the incident. Divers found the Spar Indus in stable condition, no oil pollution had been released and all 21 crew were uninjured.

Tugs were dispatched to help free the bulk carrier which was finally refloated early on November 14. The Spar Indus then proceeded around the north end of Santa Maria Island to the Bay of Coronel where it anchored.

 

Lago Icalma

Lago Icalma

Lago Icalma
Photo: twitter

On April 25, the 62 meter long, 1563 dwt cargo vessel Lago Icalma allided with the barge Rano Aroi II in Hanga Roa Bay, Easter Island. The Lago Icalma was at anchor when the barge Rano Aroi II arrived on scene to begin lightering operations.  The barge struck the against the Lago Icalma breaching the hull and rupturing a fuel tank. Diesel fuel was released into the water.  Local authorities arrived on scene and placed booms around the hull, but some pollution washed ashore.  Reports state absorbent materials were used to collect most of the diesel fuel from the shoreline.   The crew of the Lago Icalma transferred fuel from the damaged tank and was able to seal the breach.  No reports of injuries.

Seikongen

Seikongen

seikongen
Photo: aqua.cl

On October 18, the 69.5 meter long, 2494 dwt fish carrier Seikongen capsized and sank near Puerto Montt, Chile. The Seikongen loaded with 200 kilos of salmon bound for Chonchi when it suffered water ingress in the bow.  Even though the Seikongen was nearly brand new, the fish carrier’s pumps were unable to control the flooding.  To avoid sinking, the master of the Seikongen changed course for the closest shallow water.  The Seikongen was able to run aground and it looked if the vessel would avoid sinking. However, the flooding continued causing the vessel to lose stability and develop a list to starboard.  A short time later the vessel rolled over onto its side and sank just below the surface.

Reports state the 11 crew on board the Seikongen were safely evacuated before the vessel sank.  Authorities deployed booms around the wreck in hopes to contain any pollution released. The Seikongen had some 67,000 litres of fuel on board at the time. Chilean Navy divers have inspected the hull and report no fuel leaks.  Authorities have also stated the cargo of 37,000 salmon have most likely perished in the holds and would be left in the sealed holds to avoid damaging the environment.

The owners of the Seikongen are coordinating salvage efforts with Chilean authorities. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.