On the morning of July 28, the 19 meter long, 114 gt fishing vessel Virginie (IMO: 8678437) became disabled in the English Channel some 26 nautical miles west of Pointe de la Hague, France. The fishing vessel had run afoul of its nets which got wrapped around its propeller. The Virginie requested assistance with the SNSM lifeboat responding. The lifeboat took the Virginie under tow and proceed to Cherbourg. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
On March 24, the 16 meter long fishing vessel Billabong (MMSI: 228380000) suffered water ingress in the Bay of Biscay off Lann Bihoué, France. Reports state the fishing vessel requested assistance after discovering uncontrolled water ingress. The SNSM dispatched the rescue vessel SNS 084 assisted by a helicopter from the Marine Nationale. The two crew from the Billabong were winched to safety. The crew was later taken to Lann Bihoué for evaluation. No reports of injuries.
The fate of the Billabong was not reported. Until authorities provide further information, it is possible the vessel sank or authorities were able to place dewatering pumps on board and towed the vessel back to port.
On the afternoon of December 26, the 180 meter long, 38683 dwt bulk carrier Phillip Bay (IMO: 9714757) caught fire in the English Channel some 40 kilometers north of Cherbourg, France. The fire started in the living quarters aboard the bulk carrier and sent out a distress call. French authorities dispatched a Navy helicopter with a response team including two fire fighters and a nautical expert. The tug Abeille Liberte and SNSM lifeboat were deployed assisted by an United Kingdom patrol boat. A few hours later the fire fighters extinguished the blaze. No reports of injuries.
Reports state there was no damage to the cargo of food on board. The extent of damage to the living quarters was not disclosed. The Phillip Bay was escorted to Le Havre where it undergo inspection and repairs.