The NTSB has completed its investigation into the grounding of the barge Cordova Provider in Prince William Sound, which was declared a total loss. On January 10, 2025, the tug-barge system faced severe weather, leading to the failure of Dyneema lines that ultimately left the barge adrift and grounded.
A recent report by the Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) highlighted a near-disaster involving the Achilles Bulker, which nearly drifted into shallow waters while departing Tauranga, New Zealand. The investigation revealed a missing rowing pin, critical for helm stability, due to improper maintenance. Swift crew action averted catastrophe.
After months of work, salvors have successfully removed most of the bunker fuel from the grounded MSC Baltic III, significantly reducing pollution risks along Newfoundland’s coast. Utilizing calmer summer weather, the team transferred over 1,000 tonnes of heavy fuel oil for safe disposal, while facing challenges from the vessel’s remote location and severe damage.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported on the grounding of the barge Tom Frazier near Portsmouth, Ohio, on February 10, 2024. The vessel struck submerged structures while maneuvering, causing extensive damage and a flooding incident. Fortunately, all nine crew members were safely evacuated during the emergency.
On June 4, 2025, the Andaman Nicobar Command successfully averted a maritime disaster near Battimalv Island. The Merchant Vessel Fotex, drifting due to engine failure, posed a threat to the ecologically sensitive region. The Indian Coast Guard acted swiftly, towing the vessel away and preventing an environmental crisis.
The Canadian Coast Guard reports progress in the salvage operation for the grounded containership MSC Baltic III, stranded since February 15. Improved weather has facilitated container removal, with 115 containers taken off so far. Approximately half of the heavy fuel onboard has also been safely extracted to prevent pollution.
The grounding of the bulk carrier Ali Aykin in the Øresund has proven more serious than initially believed, with confirmed hull damage and water ingress. While no injuries or spills have been reported, the vessel carries 18,000 gallons of diesel, prompting authorities to monitor for pollution risks as investigations continue.
The Philippine Coast Guard successfully rescued 506 passengers, including infants and children, from the grounded interisland ferry Lite Ferry Five during the busy Easter Holiday travel period. The ferry, which operates between Bohol and Cagayan de Oro, ran aground just offshore shortly after departure. No injuries were reported, and a marine assessment is ongoing.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission in New Zealand released a report on the grounding of the passenger vessel Fiordland Navigator, attributing it to a fatigued master who fell asleep at the helm. The incident occurred on January 24, 2024, resulting in minor injuries and moderate damage. Recommendations were made to improve safety measures and oversight.
The Netherlands-based surveying firm Fugro managed to refloat its geophysical survey vessel, Fugro Mercator, after it ran aground off the north coast of the Italian island of Elba. Despite harsh weather conditions, the vessel was safely towed back to port for inspection. No injuries or environmental harm were reported.
Residents near Pattaya City, Thailand were alarmed by a stranded gas tanker on the shore. Authorities confirmed no gas leak, as tanks were empty. The LPG carrier ran aground avoiding a fishing boat due to an employee’s negligence. SC Group Holding pledged stricter measures. Double-hull construction prevented significant damage, but concerns remain.
The geophysical survey vessel Fugro Mercator ran aground off the north coast of Elba, Italy on March 22. The Italian coastguard responded swiftly, ensuring the safe evacuation of all 11 crew members. A salvage operation is now being planned in collaboration with international experts and local authorities to address the situation and minimize environmental impact.
A recent incident involving the cargo ship Bonnie G in the Caribbean Sea resulted in its grounding due to a failure of the anchor chain and navigation errors. The ship ran aground south of St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, after drifting towards land. The captain’s actions and inadequate precautions led to the total loss.
The captain of a K Line-operated ferry is facing prosecution for a grounding incident on Hokkaido in July 2024. The Silver Breeze struck a breakwater in Tomakomai, causing damage to the bow. No injuries were reported among the 140 passengers and crew onboard. The captain’s failure to confirm the ship’s position led to the accident.
The U.S. Coast Guard is responding to the grounding of the Algoma Verity in the Delaware River near the Benjamin Franklin Bridge. No injuries or pollution have been reported. The vessel was carrying 45,000 tons of solar salt. A safety zone has been established, and an investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing.
