The cargo vessel, which ran aground in the Canadian Arctic Northwest Passage on September 6, appears to have been successfully refloated following a complex, multi-stage salvage operation. The vessel’s operator confirmed the success on October 9.
Salvage Operation Summary
The vessel was refloated after an effort that spanned nearly five weeks and involved multiple support ships.
- Grounding Date: The ice-class cargo vessel ran aground on a shoal on September 6 while en route from China to eastern Canada.
- Stage 1 (Lightening): This stage concluded with the offloading of 4,000 tonnes of cargo onto two other freighters to reduce the vessel’s draft.
- Stage 2 (Refloating): This stage began with the controlled emptying of damaged ballast tanks using specialized equipment brought by the Estonian icebreaker.
- Refloating: Based on AIS data and subsequent confirmation, the vessel began moving early on October 8 with the assistance of the Estonian icebreaker, a Canadian tug, and a Dutch freighter. A Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker was also on standby.
Vessel Condition and Next Steps
The vessel’s integrity was maintained throughout the incident and subsequent operation, minimizing environmental risk.
- Damage Assessment: Only the ballast tanks sustained damage in the grounding; the fuel tanks and cargo compartment remained intact, and no oil spill or hazardous materials were reported.
- Inspection and Departure: The Canadian Coast Guard is conducting daily inspections using underwater vehicles. The vessel must undergo a thorough inspection and receive clearance before traveling to a yet-to-be-determined port of refuge (Stage 3).
- Travel Plan: The operator’s goal is for the vessel to travel out of the Arctic under its own power, with the Estonian icebreaker available to provide escort or assistance if necessary.
- Ice Conditions: Current ice conditions in the Northwest Passage are moderate, which should allow the vessel to depart safely toward eastern Canada.
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Source: gCaptain
