Cologne - Shipwreck Log

On August 20, the 110 meter long river passenger vessel Douce France ran aground on the Rhine off Cologne, Germany. The Douce France was on a voyage from Koblenz to Amsterdam with 97 passengers and 28 crew when it approached Cologne. As the cruise ship was attempting to berth, it grounded at the bow. Unable to free itself, the crew requested assistance with the self-propelled barge Millennium responding. Authorities blocked traffic on the Rhine while the Millennium pulled the Douce France free.

No reports of injuries or pollution released. Reports state the cause of the grounding was due to the low water levels.

Excalibur

January 7, 2016 Paul Hancock

The 110 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Excalibur ran aground on the Rhine near Cologne, Germany. The Excalibur was doing a turn when it’s bow thruster failed and the barge ran aground against the river bank. Another barge was able to pull the Excalibur free a few hours later. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. The Excalibur was taken to Mülheim for inspection.

Maranta

June 25, 2014 Paul Hancock

The 172 meter long self-propelled barge Maranta I and the barge Maranta II went aground on the Rhine near Cologne, Germany. The vessel attempted to refloat itself, the two vessels seperated. The Maranta II drifted and collided with the 103 meter long passenger ship River Cloud 2. The River Cloud 2 suffered minor scrapes and bent radar. Traffic halted on the river until a dredger arrived on scene and lightered some cargo. The Maranta was en route from Bonn with a cargo of soy. No reports of injuries or pollution released.