On January 2, the 45 meter long, 299 gt ro-ro passenger ferry Spiekeroog IV (IMO: 7824871) ran aground in the North Sea while at the port of Neuharlingersiel, Germany. The ferry got stuck in port as had proceeded to far up the concrete ramp. The ferry remained aground until the rising tide allowed the Spiekeroog IV to free itself later that night. There were no reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
The 46 meter long, 98 dwt ro-ro passenger ferry Spiekeroog 4 ran aground at the harbour entrance to Neuharlingersiel, Germany. The ferry was en route to Neuharlingersiel from Spiekeroog with 140 passengers when it became stuck just outside the island port. The Skiekeroog 4 requested assistance with the DGzRS lifeboat from Neuharlingersiel responding. The lifeboat tried to free the ro-ro ferry, but the Skiekeroog 4 would not budge. The ferry would remain stuck for another 7 hours until the rising tide allowed the Skiekeroog 4 to break free and berth in Neuharlingersiel. Passengers were offered free meals during the delay. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released. Reports state authorities will conduct a survey for any new sandbars in the area.