The 76 meter long, 1405 dwt livestock carrier Nabolsi 1 caught fire in the Mediterranean Sea off Lerapetra, Crete. The Nabolsi 1 was en route to Alexandria from Beirut when a fire broke out. Reports state a Greek Coast Guard vessel with two NATO vessels arrived on scene and help extinguish the blaze. No reports of injuries or pollution release. Extent of damage on board the livestock carrier had not been reported.
On April 28, the 186 meter long, 7150 dwt ro-ro passenger ferry Sorrento caught fire in the Mediterranean Sea off Dragonera Island, Spain. The Sorrento had departed from Palma with 156 passengers and crew en route to Valencia when a blaze broke out on the car deck. The fire spewed out plumes of thick black smoke. The crew tried to fight the blaze, but the intensity of the fire and smoke forced an evacuation into the ferry’s lifeboats. Authorities were alerted and diverted four vessels and helicopters to the scene. Three crew members suffered smoke inhalation and were rescued by helicopter and taken for treatment. Reports state there were over 100 vehicles on board that were destroyed. Authorities were able to tow the burnt out ferry into Valencia. No reports of pollution released.
On January 25, the 169 meter long bulk carrier Zeus I became disabled in bad weather in the Mediterranean Sea off Bordj El Bahri, Algeria. The Zeus I had been asked to leave Algier as bad weather approached. However, the bulker suffered engine failure only 16 kilometers offshore and went adrift as waves reached 8 meters high. The crew quickly requested assistance with two helicopters, naval vessel and a tug responding. The naval vessel was able to connect a line and take the Zeus I under tow. The trio proceeded back to Algier. No reports of injuries to the 21 crew, damage or pollution released. Reports stated the Zeus I had some 23800 tons of wheat on board at the time.
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