Grounded Tanker ‘Arca 1’ Refloated in Nova Scotia

The Arca-1 pictured during Sunday’s operation to refloat the vessel near Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia. Photo: Canadian Coast Guard

The grounded bunkering tanker Arca 1 has been successfully refloated and is now secure in Sydney Harbour, Nova Scotia.

The Canadian Coast Guard reported that no pollution was observed throughout the operation to free the vessel from the Cape Breton coast near Sydney Mines.

The operation to tow the Arca 1 commenced at high tide on Sunday after being delayed last week due to weather. By Sunday afternoon the vessel was reported to be secure in Sydney Harbour.

“After an unsuccessful tow attempt and extensive de-ballasting and pumping operations, I’m pleased to report that the vessel was successfully towed to a dock in Sydney today,” said Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard. “It was escorted for the duration of the voyage by Coast Guard and Fisheries and Oceans’ Conservation and Protection vessels. The tanker is now being fully inspected to further assess its structural integrity and to determine the cause of its problems.”

#Arca1 successfully towed to Sydney #Harbour, N.S. Vessel is secure. No pollution. pic.twitter.com/fD8xupCHaz

— Canadian Coast Guard (@CCG_GCC) January 15, 2017

The Panama-flagged Arca 1 ran aground last Sunday, January 8, after experiencing engine failure while underway from Port of Montreal to Mexico. All six crew members were successfully airlifted from the vessel. Salvors confirmed that the 1,317 dwt vessel, which has been used to re-fuel other ships at the port of Montreal, was carrying approximately 9 tonnes of fuel but no cargo when the it ran aground.

Although the cause of the incident is under investigation, many have questioned whether the Arca 1 was appropriately-powered to make the journey from Montreal to Mexico under its own power.

Unlock Exclusive Insights Today!

Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.

Sign Up