The 103 meter long, 1703 dwt ro-ro passenger ferry Boris Shtokolov ran aground in the Kerch Strait near the port of Kavkaz, Russia. The ferry was en route with 34 passengers and vehicles when it ran aground just outside the port. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
An attempt to refloat itself failed and the ferry requested assistance. Reports state several tugs were contracted to pull the ferry free.
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.
The 73.5 meter long, 422 dwt ro-ro ferry Maria Matilde struck the island of Tablas, Philippines. The ferry had departed from Odiongan bound for Romblon Island with 251 passengers. The ferry was in heavy rain as it passed through the Tablas Strait and struck a large rock formation off Tablas Island. The bow of the ferry sustained severe damage above the waterline. Reports state 87 passengers sustained injuries with several having major injuries. The injured were taken to Romblon by rescuers for treatment. Four vehicles sustained damage by the impact.
There are multiple and conflicting reports to the cause of the incident. One report states the vessel had suffered steering failure while another states an error with the navigation system resulted in the allision. All accounts state visibility was limited due to the heavy rains. The Philippine Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident.
