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Tag: Research Vessel

Fugro Mercator

Fugro Mercator

Fugro Mercator
Photo: Guardia Costiera

On March 22, the 42 meter long, 360 gt research vessel Fugro Mercator (IMO: 9299977) ran aground in the Tyrrhenian Sea near Portoferraio, Italy. The Fugro Mercator was seeking shelter from bad weather and ventured to close to the island of Elba. The vessel struck a reef just offshore from the rocky cliff shoreline. The vessel sustained hull damage and water ingress. Attempts to contain the flooding by the crew resulted in damaging the vessel’s engine and a total power blackout onboard.

Fugro Mercator
Photo: Guardia Costiera

Authorities deployed a patrol boat from Portoferraio which was able to rescue all the personnel and crew from the Fugro Mercator.  There were no reports of injuries.

The Italian Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident. Reports state the cause of the grounding may be due to issues with the propulsion system or by the strong winds at the time of the incident. The owners have contracted a company to inspect the vessel and provide a salvage plan. The Coast Guard continues to monitor the incident for any signs of pollution released from the vessel.

 

Arctic Opilio

Arctic Opilio

Arctic Opilio
Photo: itromso.no

The 56 meter long research vessel Arctic Opilio ran aground in the Tromsø Sound near Tromsø, Norway. The crew was able to refloat the vessel a short time later and proceeded to Tromsø.  Authorities were alerted of the incident by witnesses.  No reports of injuries.  No further details reported.

Geos

Geos

Geos
Photo: bharian.com.my

The 60 meter long research vessel Geos caught fire off Kuala Baram, Malaysia. The fire started after an explosion in the engine room while doing offshore oil exploration. The fire quickly engulfed the research vessel forcing the crew to jump overboard into the sea. Authorities were alerted and quickly launched a search and rescue operation. Rescuers arrived on scene all pulled 37 of the 38 crew to safety. Two crew sustained injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment. One crew person was reported as missing.

Several tugs arrived a short time later and began to extinguish the blaze on the Geos. The tugs were able to contain the fire, but reports state there were several areas within the superstructure still on fire.  Fire crews were expected to board the vessel and continue to extinguish the blaze.  Reports state the owner and authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.