Cargo Ship with Ammonium Nitrate Seeks Emergency Port in Norway

A Malta-registered cargo ship named Ruby has sought emergency port in Tromsø harbor, Norway, due to hull damage after a grounding.

The vessel, carrying 20,000 tons ammonium nitrate, a potentially explosive chemical compound, is currently detained in port, as Norwegian authorities work to resolve the situation safely. The ship had arrived over the weekend from Kandalaksha, Russia.

“It is crucial for Norwegian authorities to clarify the risks and requirements for relocation, anchoring, and repair so that it can be carried out in a safe and secure manner,” said police station chief Anita Hermandsen of Troms police district.

The plan is to tow the cargo ship out of Tromsø harbor to an anchorage. Tugboats were expected to arrive on Tuesday afternoon or evening, with the towing to be carried out as soon as possible. The final anchoring point is still under consideration.

“The ship will have to make temporary improvements so that the ship can get limited permission to go to an agreed shipyard, or requirements will be set for a tugboat to carry out the voyage/tow to the shipyard,” said Dag Inge Aarhus, communications director at the Norwegian Maritime Authority.

Multiple authorities are involved in managing the situation, including the police, Norwegian Maritime Authority, Tromsø harbor, and the Directorate for Civil Protection and Emergency Planning (DSB). The Norwegian Coastal Administration is also assisting with advice and will help move the vessel pending repair.

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