On August 21, the 12 meter long ro-ro passenger ferry St. Michael (MMSI:211664940) became disabled on the Rhine at Hitdorf, Germany. The St. Michael suffered a mechanical breakdown with the failure of the vessel’s gearbox. The ferry was taken out of service until repairs can be completed. Reports state the St. Michael should be inspected and back in service within a few days. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
On the morning of August 17, the 62 meter long ferry Helene (MMSI: 211276280) collided with a tanker on the Rhine near Gernsheim, Germany. The Helene was making a crossing between Gernsheim and Eich with three vehicles and six people on board when it struck an empty self-propelled tanker barge. Both vessels sustained hull damage, but were able to stay afloat. Reports state the Helene had allowed to vessels to pass upstream, but failed to spot the downstream tanker. The Helene was taken out of service for inspection and repair. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
On August 6, the 39 meter long ro-ro ferry Opheusdenseveer (MMSI: 244750035) became disabled on the Nederrijn River near Wageningen, Netherlands. The ferry was put out of action when a undisclosed inland vessel had sailed too close to the Opheusdenseveer and become entangled in the guide chains. As the inland vessel continued to proceed the chains dragged the ferry against against a groyne. Both vessels could not be moved blocking traffic on the river. No reports of injuries or pollution released.
Update: The Opheusdenseveer was freed and put back in service on August 13.
