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Tag: Research Vessel

SeaWolf

SeaWolf

SeaWolf
Photo: capemaycountyherald.com

On January 15, the 80 foot long, 122 gt research vessel SeaWolf (IMO: 8853489) became disabled in the Atlantic Ocean about 10 miles off Cape May Inlet, New Jersey. The SeaWolf had gone adrift after the vessel suffered a breakdown with the vessel’s transmission.  Unable to make repairs and weather conditions having high winds reaching 35 miles per hour, the SeaWolf contacted SeaTow for assistance.  The SeaTow dispatched a 45 foot vessel which was able to reach the vessel a litter over an hour later. The SeaWolf was taken under tow and was successfully towed to Cape May Harbor. No reports of injuries or pollution released.

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.