New research from Scottish Heriot-Watt University reveals that over half of vessels in Scotland’s coastal waters are not visible to tracking systems, hindering marine resource management. Only 43 percent of vessels near the coast broadcast AIS signals, impacting safety and marine life. The study highlights the need for improved monitoring to inform regulations and protect ecosystems.
The burnt wreckage of a ship that collided with a tanker in the North Sea arrived at a Scottish port on March 28. The incident involved the Portuguese-flagged Solong crashing into the U.S. military-contracted tanker Stena Immaculate, resulting in a fire and evacuation of both crews. Fortunately, most crew members were rescued, but one tragically lost his life.
Fire crews in the Port of Aberdeen, Scotland, are working tirelessly to extinguish a cargo hold fire on a Panama-flagged bulker named Lowlands Diamond. Despite the intense efforts of several fire departments and specialist teams, the ship and port are not in immediate danger. The operation is described as complex and unusual.
Scottish shipbuilder Ferguson Marine recently handed over the first dual-fuel LNG ferry, the Glen Sannox, to the government. Delayed by nearly ten years and facing cost overruns, the 7,300-ton vessel is now set to serve the Arran route. Despite controversies and ballooning costs, the ferry marks a crucial step in Scotland’s ferry procurement program.
The UK celebrated a major achievement with the first bunkering of an LNG dual-fuel vessel from a Scottish shipyard. Despite delays, the construction of two new Ro-Ro ferries for CalMac is close to completion. Glen Sannox’s cool-down process began in Glasgow, marking a crucial step towards its delivery, although facing challenges and political scrutiny.
On July 12, 2024, the crew of the fishing vessel “Kingfisher” faced a dangerous situation when one of their sailors was pulled overboard while setting traps. Thanks to his personal flotation device and the quick response of his colleagues, the sailor was successfully rescued. This incident emphasizes the importance of safety and preparedness at sea.
