On the afternoon of April 8, 2025, the 82 meter long self-propelled barge Saeftinge (MMSI: 244700744) caught fire on the Western Scheldt while berthed in Terneuzen, Netherlands. The fire started in the vessel’s engine room. The local fire brigade was called and were able to extinguished the fire a short time later. Reports state the Saeftinge remained moored in Terneuzen. No reports of injuries. No details were disclosed to the extent of damage caused by the incident.
On the afternoon of April 2, the 86 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Nicky (IMO: 9496484) was in a collision on Scheldt-Rhine Canal with the 110 meter long self-propelled barge Volturno (MSSI: 244660954) just outside of the Kreekrak Locks in Reimerswaal, Netherlands. The Volturno‘s bow struck the Nicky hull amidships. The Nicky‘s port hull was holed above the water line while the bow of the Volturno suffered bow damage. No reports of pollution released.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. There has been no disclosure if anyone was injured from the incident. The Nicky remained berthed near the locks while the Volturno proceed to berth in Antwerp.
On the night of March 29, the 90 meter long self-propelled passenger ship De Zonnebloem (IMO: 8407644) collided with the 135 meter long self-propelled barge Servia (MMSI: 244185189) on the Rhine near Voerde, Germany. The Servia‘s bow struck head-on with the De Zonnebloem resulting in heavy damage to the passenger ship. The De Zonnebloem sustained a 20 meter² hole in the bow above the waterline while the Servia‘s bow sustained a significant dent. Fortunately there were no injuries to the 134 passengers and 15 crew on the De Zonnebloem and no injuries on the Servia. There were no reports of pollution released.
Authorities dispatched both fire and police boats to escort the De Zonnebloem to Wesel where it was met by emergency personnel. Authorities detained the Servia and had it’s master under go a blood test for alcohol. Authorities have launched criminal proceedings while the investigation into the incident is ongoing. Reports state the De Zonnebloem will be taken out of service for several months to undergo repairs.
