On the morning of March 17, the 44 meter long fishing vessel Pico Tresmares (IMO: 9098658) caught fire in the Pacific Ocean some 860 nautical miles off La Serena, Chile. The fire started in the vessel’s engine room and quickly grew out of control. The crew attempted to extinguish the blaze but were unsuccessful. All 19 crew would later abandoned ship into life rafts. The Pico Tresmares would later capsize and sink. Reports state the crew were later rescued by another fishing vessel. No reports of injuries.
On the morning of March 14, the 32 meter long, 347 gt tugboat Westport (IMO: 7810026) collided with the 182 meter long, 23623 dwt container ship A. Idefix (IMO: 9354662) in Bahía del Callao off Callao, Peru. The Westport struck the A. Idefix resulting in the tug’s starboard hull being holed. The crew was unable to control the water ingress and the Westport eventually sank by the stern. No reports of injuries or damage on the A. Idefix.
Reports state that 6 crew from the Westport were injured during the incident. The crew would be taken to hospital for treatment. Peruvian authorities placed booms over the site to contain oil pollution released. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
On the early morning hours of March 17, the 30 meter long, 503 dwt tug Provincia del Azuay (IMO: 9654933) sank in the Gulf of Mexico at its berth in Veracruz, Mexico. The tug suffered uncontrolled water ingress during the night. The two crew onboard were unaware until an audible alarm was sounded which left the crew just minutes to evacuate the vessel. The Provincia del Azuay continued to sink until only part of the wheelhouse and mast was still above water.
Authorities, port employees and local fire fighters arrived on scene and began measures to contain any pollution that might be released. Booms and absorbent pads were placed around the wreck to contain any oil pollution. Reports state the tug had only a small amount of reserve fuel in its tanks at the time of the incident. Authorities have stated there will be an investigation into the incident. Cranes will be brought in to lift and refloat the Provincia del Azuay. No reports of injuries.
