The 132 meter long, 4660 dwt tanker Volgoneft-210 collided with the 108 meter long cargo vessel Veles on the Azov-Don Sea Canal near Rostov-on-Don, Russia. Reports state the vessels were proceeding in reduced visibility when the Volgoneft-210 struck the Veles. The Veles sustained damage along the bulwark and main deck. No reports of injuries or pollution released. Both vessels were ordered to proceed to Rostov-on-Don for surveys. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
On September 10, the 91 meter long, 3205 dwt tanker Agia Zoni II sank in the Saronic Gulf off the island of Salamina, Greece. The tanker had departed from Aspropyrgos distilleries with 2200 tons of fuel oil and 370 tons of marine gas. While at anchor in calm conditions, the tanker suffered water ingress in the vessel’s engine room. The Agia Zoni II sank a short time later. No reports of injuries. The vessel’s master and engineer on board were arrested, but later released by authorities pending trial for negligence.
Authorities sent divers to confirm the tanker holds had been sealed, but a large oil slick had been released. The slick washed ashore along the island of Salamina and the coast along southern Athens. Reports state some 20 kilometers of beaches are polluted and local authorities have banned swimming and fishing in the area. Vessels and environmental crews had been dispatched by authorities to help clean up the pollution. Reports state the cleanup has been slow and may require up to 25 days to be completed.
Photo: yahoo.com
Photo: ekathimerini.com
Reports state the Agia Zoni II lacked the certificates of seaworthiness. The vessel had undergone some repairs before it departed, but several reports state the repairs were insufficient and improperly done. Statements such as the vessel had “gaping holes” in the engine room suggests the tanker lacked the structural integrity to be allowed to leave port. Additionally, reports state the vessel lacked a full crew. The Agia Zoni II typically would have a crew of 11 persons, but on its final voyage the tanker just had 2 crew on board. This could suggest that many crew decided not to serve on board the tanker knowing it wouldn’t stay afloat.
Greek authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
On August 25, the 228 meter long tanker Kamome Victoria ran aground in Gravesend Bay near the Ambrose Channel, off Sandy Hook and Queens, New York. The tanker was proceeding with 373,000 gallons of fuel on board when it ran aground. The Kamome Victoria notified the Coast Guard the tanker had run aground. A team was dispatched and inspected the tanker for damage. No injuries or damage was found. No signs of any pollution released.
The Kamome Victoria was refloated and allowed to continue its voyage. The Coast Guard has launched an investigation into the incident.
