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Tag: Disabled

Grace Mariner

Grace Mariner

Grace Mariner
Photo: Fleetmon.com

On September 19, the 149 meter long bulk carrier Grace Mariner became disabled during a heavy storm in the Taiwan Strait.  The vessel was between Zhejiang and Fujian provinces when it suffered a mechanical failure and went adrift. The crew requested assistance with the Chinese Authorities dispatching a rescue vessel to the scene. The rescue vessel East Sea Rescue 116 arrived on scene and took the Grace Mariner under tow.  The vessels proceeded to Xiamen to an anchorage.  No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.

Hao Jun

Hao Jun

The 96 meter long cargo ship Hao Jun became disabled near Macau, China. The cargo vessel had lost power during severe conditions by Typhoon Kalmaegi.  The Hao Jun encountered 100 km/h wind gusts and waves reaching 10 meters high caused by the typhoon. The Hao Jun was taking on water and was in danger of sinking when the vessel’s master sent out a distress call. A helicopter was dispatched and with great difficulty winched up the 14 crew off the Hao Jun to safety.  One crewman was taken to hospital for treatment.  No reports to the fate of the Hao Jun.  Last report states the vessel was taking on water and was in a sinking state.

Sikelela Aground

Sikelela Aground

Sikelela
Photo: NSRI

On August 28, the fishing vessel Sikelela ran aground in St. Francis Bay near St. Francis, South Africa. The vessel had suffered a power blackout while attempting to return to harbour in 5 meter swells and high winds.  The crew was unable to gain control of the Sikelela as the waves drove the vessel ashore.  The eight crewmen escaped the fishing vessel to the shoreline.  A few others were unable to leap ashore and were left hanging onto the vessel as waves crashed over the vessel.  The NSRI lifeboat arrived on scene and rescued three crew.  The NRSI also rescued the  master of the Sikelela. He had suffered injuries after loosing his footing.  The Sikelela continued to be battered into the rocks the following days until  it was smashed into a total loss.  Some oil and fuel was released but was dissipated by the waves.