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MV Beaumont

MV Beaumont

MV Beaumont
Photo: zululandobserver.co.za

On August 28, the Philippine-registered MV Beaumont ran aground off Richards Bay, South Africa. The bulk carrier had finished loading at the coal terminal and was being assisted out to sea.  As the vessel reached the main channel, it was pushed onto a sandbank by the incoming tide.  Three tugs came to the aid of the MV Beaumont and were able to pull her free 30-minutes later. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.

Authorities had the MV Beaumont inspected for damage. An investigation was launched into the cause of the incident. Reports state the vessel may had suffered a malfunction before it had run aground.

Smart Aground

Smart Aground

SMART

The 273 meter long, 151279 dwt bulk freighter Smart went aground  on a sandbar off Richards Bay, South Africa.  The bulk freighter had finished loading its 147,650 tons of coal at the terminal at Richards Bay when left the harbour.   The Smart only travelled a short distance when its engines failed.   The heavy swells pushed the bulk freighter onto the shallows.  The Smart suffered a massive crack and eventually broke-in-two by the following day.   All 23 crew were rescued by NSRI helicopter crews.  No reports of injuries.

Authorities state they are fearing the worse case scenario as the vessel had  1,500 tons of heavy fuel oil and a large quantity of diesel fuel.  Some pollution has already been spotted and clean up operations have begun.

Reports state the vessel did not have a pilot on board when it left the harbour.  The vessel’s owners, Esmeralda Schiffahrts, has stated that clean up operations will be covered by the company and its insurers.

Donations to assist the National Sea Rescue Institute can be made at: http://www.nsri.org.za/ways-to-support-us/give-a-donation

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