Lightering Plan to Free Bulker Stuck in St. Lawrence River

A Cyprus-flagged bulker named Maccoa has been stuck in Canada’s St. Lawrence River since December 24. The new plan to free the vessel involves lightering, which is the second time in a month that a bulker in the river has needed to remove a portion of its cargo to become unstuck. The Maccoa lost power shortly after leaving Montreal and grounded a few miles along the St. Lawrence River. The Canadian Coast Guard reported that the ship had not sustained damage but was sideways outside the navigation channel.

Efforts to free the Maccoa began on December 27 with three tugs attempting to dislodge the ship using their wash. However, after several unsuccessful attempts, a new plan was devised to offload over 3,000 metric tons of corn from the vessel. The lightering process is expected to take at least two days, with a target date of January 5 to free the ship, although weather conditions could cause delays. The 20 crew members aboard the Maccoa are safe, and there have been no reports of pollution.

In a similar incident earlier in December, another bulker named Tim S Dool required lightering to be freed from the St. Lawrence River. Canadian authorities believe it is a coincidence that two vessels became stuck in the same month. With the navigation season ending soon for the St. Lawrence Seaway, efforts are being made to free the Maccoa before harsh winter weather sets in. The Seaway traditionally opens in late March based on weather conditions.

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