The Shipwreck Library

During the late night on June 2, the 200 meter long, 29213 dwt car carrier Courage caught fire off the Dover coast. The Courage was passing off Harwich in Essex when a fire was detected on one of the vessel’s car decks. The crew quickly responded and used the vessel’s CO2 system to extinguish the blaze. The crew contacted the Dover Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre that they felt the fire was extinguished, but could not verify as the CO2 prevented the crew using corridors and areas around the deck.  The vessel was diverted to Southampton where several specialists from the Hampshire Fire and Rescue were airlifted on board. They found the fire had indeed been extinguished and it was safe for the Courage to berth in Southampton. No reports of injuries or pollution released.