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 morning of March 19, the 80 meter long self-propelled barge Lavoro (MMSI: 244850073) became disabled on the Western Scheldt east of Terneuzen, Netherlands. Reports state the Lavoro suffered engine problems and went adrift. The 135 meter long self-propelled container barge Salamanca (MMSI: 244821242) was nearby and secured the Lavoro. The 32.5 meter long tugboat Multratug 28 (IMO: 9727962) arrived a short time later and took the Lavoro under tow to Hansweert. No reports of injuries, damage or pollution released.
The 85 meter long self-propelled tanker-barge Nicole Burmester ran aground on the Western Scheldt near Terneuzen, Netherlands. The tanker had departed from Antwerp when it mistook a buoy for a harbor light and stranded on a submerged breakwater. The crew requested assistance with multiple tugs responding. The tugs were able to pull the Nicole Burmester free. The tugs then escorted the tanker to the port of Terneuzen. There it berthed and authorities had divers inspect the hull for damage. No reports of injuries. The incident is under investigation.
