Successful Recovery Of Sunken Cargo Ship In North Sea By German Authorities

In a major salvage operation, Germany’s Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration (WSV) successfully retrieved a sunken cargo ship wreck in the North Sea. The shipwreck, resulting from a collision in October 2023, was recovered after an intensive effort that began in June 2024. The operation, praised for its complexity and safety, involved lifting two large sections of the vessel from the seabed, reports Marine Insight.

Salvage Operation and Challenges

The wreck, found in two sections, was retrieved with the help of a powerful floating crane. The stern section was raised on August 30, 2024, and the bow, which weighed 580 tons, followed four days later. The salvage team had to navigate challenging conditions, including diving to depths of 40 meters and working within limited time windows between high and low tides.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts

While the operation was focused on the retrieval of the wreck, the body of one crew member was also found inside the stern section. Two survivors had previously been rescued, but three other crew members remain missing. Throughout the operation, safety remained the top priority, with multiple vessels and tugs involved to ensure a secure environment for both the salvage team and ongoing maritime traffic.

Post-Salvage Cleanup

After the successful retrieval of the wreck, the remaining debris, including hatch covers, will be removed from the seabed. The area will undergo a final inspection to ensure it is safe to ship before being fully cleared. Both recovered sections of the vessel will be transported to the Netherlands for disposal, marking the final stages of this complex recovery effort.