On the afternoon of March 28, the 88 meter long, 2600 dwt cargo vessel Wilson Rotterdam (IMO: 9557381) became disabled in the North Sea near Bergen, Norway. The Wilson Rotterdam was headed to Esbjerg from Porsgrunn when it suffered an engine breakdown and power blackout. The cargo vessel went adrift, but the crew was able to complete repairs and restore power. Reports state authorities had tugs and rescue vessels on standby. Authorities have stated there would be an investigation into the incident.
On the evening of February 21, the 88 meter long, 1460 dwt cargo vessel Birgit G (IMO: 9536064) became disabled on the North Sea off Westerhever, Germany. The vessel had suffered engine problems and dropped anchor to undergo repairs. After completing repairs, the crew requested the DGzRS to escort the cargo vessel to Büsum in case of another engine breakdown. The DGzRS deployed the search and rescue vessel Theodor Storm out of Büsum and proceeded to escort the Birgit G to port. Around 3:30 a.m. on February 22, the vessels were just 5.4 nautical miles off Büsum when the Birgit G main engine failed. The Birgit G was able to drop it’s anchor again. Later the Theodor Storm proceeded to transport technicians and inspectors to the Birgit G to assist in repairs. Reports state a tug towed the Birgit G into port the next day. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
On January 13, the 240 meter long, 47800 gt passenger ship Viking Vela (IMO: 9852432) sustained damage on the North Sea. The Viking Vela was headed to Narvik, Norway from Ijmuiden, Holland when it encountered weather worse than forecasted. The vessel was rocked by severe weather with waves reaching 35 feet and winds over 100 miles-per-hours. Reports state many of the passengers had sustained minor injuries caused by the heavy swells. Passengers stated that furniture was tossed about with beds, tables and luggage strewn on the floor.
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The vessel also sustained some damage. The crew alerted Norwegian authorities that it had issues with its propulsion. One of the thrusters reported a wear alarm which required attention and the vessel diverted to the safety of Ålesund. Escorted by two tugs, the Viking Vela was able to reach port safely. No further details of the extent of damage to the thruster was reported.
Reports state the vessel extended its stay at Ålesund for several more days. As of January 16, the vessel remained in port stating it was too rough to continue. Passengers have received a partial refund as it has cancelled part of the voyage.
