The 30 meter long research vessel Kennemer went aground off Holwerd, Netherlands. The Kennermer’s mooring lines broke during a gale and drifted until it washed ashore onto the opposite causeway/dike. No reports of injuries or pollution released. After the high water receeded, the research vessel was left high and dry. It remained beached until the following day when four tugs and the KNRM lifeboat were able to pull the Kennemer free. The vessels proceeded to Harlingen where it was inspected.
On May 12, 2012, the 100 meter long self-propelled barge Amandus sank on the Markermeer near Lelystad, Netherlands. The vessel was carrying a cargo of stones when the crew discovered water ingress in the engine room. The crew of three were unable to stop the ingress and requested assistance. The KNRM launched lifeboats from Marken and Enkhuizen along with several other rescue boats proceeded to the scene. A nearby barge reached the Amandus first and safely rescued all three crewmen. No reports of injuries. The Amandus proceeded to sink until it hit bottom leaving the deck awash. Authorities spotted a small amount of oil sheen in the water, but no boom was required. Buoys were placed around the wreck. The police launched an investigation into the incident.
Salvage
Mammoet Maritime arrived on scene and began salvage operations. Two tugs along with other vessels were able to lift the Amandus to the surface by May 17. Photos of the salvage operation can be seen on tugspotters.com
The 58 meter long ferry Monnik went aground in the Wadden Sea. The vessel with 60 passengers on board was en route to Schiermonnikoog from Lauwersoog when the vessel struck a sandbank. The vessel contacted the KNRM who dispatched lifeboats to the scene. The lifeboats attempted to pull the ferry free, but the vessel was firmly stuck and it was decided to wait until the rising tide. An hour later, the vessel refloated and proceeded to Schiermonnikoog. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution being released. Reports state the vessel grounded due to the strong winds in the area. The Monnik was in a similar situation back in 2011.
