On December 27, 2025, the cruise ship Coral Adventurer ran aground near Dregerhafen, Papua New Guinea, due to a malfunction in its ECDIS. The chief mate’s modified route plan failed to load, causing delays and ultimately leading the vessel into hazardous waters. Despite attempts to regain control, the ship struck shallow ground.
The barge Defiant was successfully refloated from the shoreline of Castillo San Felipe del Morro early Wednesday, just before high tide. Tugboats and salvage crews worked meticulously, pressurizing cargo tanks to ensure a smooth operation. Capt. Luis J. Rodríguez praised the collaborative efforts that safeguarded San Juan’s maritime transportation and environment.
Rough sea conditions are complicating salvage efforts for the tank barge Defiant, which ran aground at San Juan’s harbor entrance. Trapped between rock formations, the barge is facing heavy surf, with waves reaching 10 to 12 feet. Authorities are monitoring for potential fuel spills as they await calmer weather.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC) of New Zealand reported on the grounding of the pilot vessel Takitimu II at Bluff on December 26, 2024. The incident, caused by excessive course alteration at high speed in foggy conditions, resulted in moderate hull damage and minor crew injuries, emphasizing the need for better navigation practices.
A cargo ship, Eikborg, has lost its rudder off Portugal’s central coast, prompting port closures and warnings. The incident, linked to a failed dredging operation, occurred shortly after departure. Adverse weather complicates efforts as the captain awaits a tugboat for assistance, while port officials stress the dredging issues persist.
On January 6, 2026, the Turkish cargo ship HAPPY ARAS ran aground in the Black Sea after drifting south of the Kerch Strait. The vessel took on water, prompting an emergency response. All 14 crew members were safely evacuated, with no injuries reported, as authorities continue to investigate the incident.
The luxury river cruise ship Nicko Vision became stranded on the Danube with nearly 200 passengers as they prepared for New Year’s Eve. Low water levels, about 9 inches below normal, hindered rescue efforts. Passengers initially traveled by bus to Budapest but later rejoined the cruise, continuing toward Bratislava.
The cruise ship Coral Adventurer has been detained in Papua New Guinea after running aground near Dreghafen Point. Despite listing slightly, no damage or pollution has been reported, and all 124 personnel are safe. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority has raised concerns about the vessel’s seaworthiness and compliance with safety regulations.
The Australian-flagged cruise ship Coral Adventurer ran aground near Dregerhafen Point, Papua New Guinea, early Saturday. Carrying 123 individuals, it grounded without reported injuries. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority detained the ship due to safety concerns, while the Australian Transport Safety Bureau launched an investigation into the incident.
The expedition cruise ship Coral Adventurer ran aground off Papua New Guinea during its inaugural voyage after a recent passenger death. All 80 passengers and 43 crew members are safe, with no reports of flooding or pollution. A response officer has boarded to assist, as investigations continue into the earlier incident.
A Chinese bulk carrier, the Hua De 858, grounded and broke apart in Xinghua Bay off Fuzhou’s coast. The vessel, which departed from Tangshan, ran aground on December 3. Fortunately, the crew was unharmed and rescued, but significant damage to the hull was reported, with the ship’s AIS signal now inactive.
The Korea Coast Guard is pursuing an arrest warrant for the Queen Jenuvia II’s captain after the ferry ran aground near Shinan County, injuring 30 of the 267 individuals on board. Accused of gross negligence, he allegedly left the wheelhouse unattended in a perilous channel, violating maritime regulations. Investigations continue.
Vietnamese officials are working to secure the dry bulk carrier Star Bueno, which ran aground during a monsoon. Weighing 178,978 dwt, it was transporting iron ore from South Africa when severe weather caused it to drag anchor. Fortunately, all 22 crew members were reported safe amid the challenging conditions.
Royal Wagenborg successfully refloated the vessel Thamesborg, stranded for 33 days in the Franklin Strait, Canada. After offloading 5,000 tons of cargo, the ship was freed on October 9. An inspection team evaluated the hull, and the vessel is set to head to Baie Comeau by October 24.
On September 18, the Turkish Coast Guard successfully rescued seven crew members from the grounded cargo ship Rapid off the Kocaeli coast. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The vessel, carrying gypsum to Ukraine, was pushed ashore by severe weather. Salvage operations will resume once conditions improve.
