Ireland - Shipwreck Log

Nestor Aground

November 28, 2013 Paul Hancock

On November 24, the 88 meter long, 3675 dwt freighter Nestor went aground shortly after departing from the docks at Limerick, Ireland. The Nestor had traveled a short distance when it became stuck on a mud bank just outside the port. A harbor workboat from Limerick attempted to refloat the Nestor, but the ebb tide proved to be too strong. A tug was dispatched to assist with recovery efforts. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. The Nestor was en route to Portugal with a cargo of scrap metal.

Cielo di San Francisco

August 20, 2013 Paul Hancock

The 182 meter long, 37056 dwt bulk freighter Cielo di San Francisco went aground on a sandbank off Bray Head, Wicklow, Ireland. The Cielo di San Francisco was en route to Dublin from Cork with a cargo of animal feed when it ran aground. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. Attempt to refloat the vessel on the following hide tide. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.

Cargo ship runs aground off coast of Dublin (irishtimes.com)

Astrid

July 24, 2013 Paul Hancock

The 42 meter long, 2-masted sailing vessel Astrid went aground and sank in the Irish Sea near Kinsale, Cork County, Ireland. The Astrid was en route to take part in a tall-ship regatta when it suffered engine failure. The disabled sailing vessel signaled the other nearby vessels it was in trouble. The vessel continue to drift towards shore until it crashed onto the rocks off the Sovereign Islands and began to take on water. The Astrid crew requested assistance with the RNLI launching several lifeboats and two helicopters to the scene. Another vessel arrived on scene and rescued 12 crew while the RNLI safely rescued the remaining 18 crew. No reports of injuries. Reports state the crew was being treated for hypothermia and shock. The other vessels taking part of the regatta were unable to pull the Astrid off the rocks. The waves pounded the Astrid on the rocks until it broke-in-two and sank. Later reports stated that 23 teenagers and 7 adults were on board the Astrid.