Bulk Carrier VTA Neptune Drags Anchor and Grounds in Vietnam
The Vietnamese-flagged bulk carrier VTA Neptune has run aground in Chan May Bay, near Hue in central Vietnam, after dragging its anchor in strong winds on 9 November. The ship lies on a sandy seabed near Canh Duong village, about 2.75 nautical miles south-west of buoy No. 0 in the Chan May channel, on Vietnam’s South China Sea coast.
The ship had arrived in ballast from southern Vietnam to load cargo at Chan May Port. While at anchor, it was hit by strong north-east monsoon winds of Beaufort force 6 to 7, with gusts of force 8 to 9, and rough seas. The anchor dragged and the vessel drifted ashore. It now lists about 2 degrees to port, with both anchors out.
From the CrewMirror Blog
All 20 crew members are safe and uninjured. An inspection on 10 November found that the ship lies outside the main navigation area, so other traffic is not affected. It has about 264 tonnes of fuel on board, including about 52 tonnes of diesel oil and 212 tonnes of fuel oil, and no leak has been reported.
The local maritime administration has told the owner to inspect the hull, ballast and fuel tanks and to assess the ship’s draft and displacement to plan refloating. Border guards and local authorities are coordinating the response, and tugs may be used.
CrewMirror Takeaway
Ships in ballast catch more wind and can drag anchor quickly when the monsoon strengthens. Bridge teams at exposed anchorages should watch the ship’s position closely, keep the engine on standby and be ready to veer more cable or leave the anchorage early.
