The 225 meter long, 73613 dwt bulk carrier Julian allided with the quay in Durban, South Africa. Arriving from Xiamen, the Julian was attempting to berth when it struck the quay. No reports of injuries or pollution released. A coal loader on the quay sustained damage in the allision.
The 180 meter long, 47941 dwt oil tanker Pacific Quartz ran aground in the harbour at Durban, South Africa. The tanker was proceeding with two pilots when it struck bottom off the North Pier in heavy swells reaching 6 meters in height. The Pacific Quartz sustained damage to a ballast tank on starboard side resulting in water ingress. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. The South African Maritime Safety Authority has launched an investigation into the incident.
The 164 meter long bulk freighter Phoenix went aground in heavy seas in Christmas Bay near Durban, South Africa. The Phoenix was under the control of a skelton crew as it was headed to India to be scrapped. As the vessel encountered rough seas, the crew dropped anchor to ride out the bad weather. However, the anchor line broke and the vessel began to drift towards shore. A nearby salvage tug attempted to connect a towline to pull the Phoenix to deeper water, but the weather conditions made it impossible. Waves were 4 to 6 meters and winds reached up to 30 knots. Pushed by the waves, the vessel struck bottom some 200 meters from the shore. The NSRI responded sending out three helicopters who airlifted all 15 crew to safety. A salvage company has already begun operations, but it is likely the vessel will be cut for scrap where it currently rests.
