Collision - Shipwreck Log

Collision off Werkendam

September 27, 2017 Paul Hancock

On September 26, the 16.5 meter long ferry Gorinchem X collided with the 85 meter long self-propelled cement tanker-barge Tarsis on the Merwede near Werkendam, Netherlands. The Gorinchem X was proceeding in dense fog between Gorinchem and Sleeuwijk with just two crew on board. For some unreported reason, the crew of the Gorinchem X lost control and struck the Tarsis. The Tarsis did sustain some damage by the collision, but the Gorinchem X suffered significant damage. The bow of the Gorinchem X was stoved-in. Both crewmen on the Gorinchem X suffered injuries requiring treatment. No reports of injuries or pollution released from the Tarsis.

A KNLM lifeboat along with the local fire brigade and water police patrol boat arrived on scene. Authorities brought the two crew off the Gorinchem X to shore. Authorities found the Tarsis able to proceed under its own power. The tanker proceeded to Hansweert for further inspection.

Balt Flot 3

September 25, 2017 Paul Hancock

The 140 meter long tanker Balt Flot 3 collided with a barge on the Volga-Baltic Sea Canal near Kurdyug, Russia. The Balt Flot 3 was proceeding with 5193 tons of fuel oil when it changed course to allow a cargo vessel to pass. Unfortunately, the tug BT-Petrokrepost and barge #3428 was in the direct path of the tanker. The barge struck head-on with the Balt Flot 3 causing damage to the tanker below the waterline. The Balt Flot 3 suffered hull breach and water ingress in the bow thruster compartment. No reports of injuries or pollution released. Details and status of the barge and tug were not reported.

Collision on Western Scheldt

September 20, 2017 Paul Hancock

The 225 meter long, 68789 dwt bulk carrier Usolie collided with the 188 meter long, 40600 dwt tanker Seatrout on the Western Scheldt near Bath, Netherlands. Both vessels were headed downstream from Antwerp in ballast with the Seatrout headed for Ust-Luga while the Usolie was bound for Klaipeda. The Seatrout had not maintained enough distance where the channel narrowed and was struck at the stern by the Usolie. The Usolie sustained only minor damage and was allowed to continue on its voyage. The Seatrout was nudged out of the fairway and went aground on a mud bank. The vessel requested assistance with 4 tugs responding. The tugs waited until high tide before pulling the Seatrout free. Traffic was halted for vessels over 200 meters long and fishing was prohibited during the incident.