On April 20, the 176 meter long ro-ro passenger ferry Huckleberry Finn allided with a quay in Trelleborg, Sweden. The ferry had suffered rudder failure just before it struck the quay. No reports of injuries to the passengers and crew on board. The ferry sustained damage to its rudder and was taken out of service for repairs. No reports of pollution released.
The 143 meter long, 17294 dwt cargo vessel Andesborg allided with a quay at Norrköping. Sweden. The Andesborg was attempting to berth at dock 2 of the Pampus Port when the aft section struck the quay. The cargo vessel sustained a hull puncture and ruptured a fuel tank. Some 1000 litres of diesel fuel spilled out into the port. Local authorities along with the Swedish Coast Guard responded to the scene. While the Coast Guard launched an environmental response team, the crew transferred fuel out of the damage tank and sealed the leak. Booms, absorbants and a vacuum truck had been deployed to recover the diesel fuel that was released into the water. No reports of injuries.
Reports state that strong winds has caused some difficulty, but the quick response to the incident reduced the impact of the spill. The incident is under investigation by the local police.
On November 9, the 83 meter long, 3171 dwt general cargo vessel Skagern ran aground on the Gota River between Trollhättan and Lilla Edet, Sweden. The Skagern was headed for Kingston upon Hull, England with a cargo of timber when it suffered a technical fault and ran aground. The Skagern sustained a slight list to starboard, but no hull breaches or water ingress.
Authorities were notified and arrived on scene a short time later. Booms were placed around the vessel to contain any pollution. The officers on board the vessel were tested for alcohol which was all returned negative. The exact cause of the grounding was not known, but authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
Divers shall inspect the hull for damage before salvage attempts are started. Reports state the vessel may require to be lighten before it can be pulled free.
