VIDEO: Russian Tanker Breaks Apart in Storm
A major maritime incident unfolded in the Kerch Strait over the weekend as the Russian oil tanker Volgoneft 212 broke in half during severe weather conditions, resulting in a significant...
Update: Mauritius Environmental Minister: No Oil Spill from Grounded Wakashio
A large bulk carrier has run aground on an Indian Ocean reef off Mauritius.
The Panama-flagged MV Wakashio was underway from China to Brazil when it ran aground Saturday night off Pointe d’esny on Mauritius’ south-eastern coast during a voyage from China to Brazil.
At 203,130 deadweight tonnes, the 300-meter MV Wakashio is classified as a large capesize bulk carrier. The vessel, however, is in ballast and not carrying any cargo.
Reports say the local Coast Guard attempted to contact the ship before it ran aground.
The Wakashio Bulk Carrier vessel has hit the coral reefs at Blue Bay in Mauritius. pic.twitter.com/LF4daZtY4T
— Kwang Poon (@kwang_poon) July 26, 2020
The MV Wakashio was built in 2007 by Universal Shipbuilding in Kawasaki, Japan. It is managed by Nagashiki Shipping.
Overflight video shows the vessel firmly aground along a reef a few hundred meters from shore.
According to local reports, authorities are making plans to refloat the vessel. No major pollution has been reported thus far.
Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.
Join the 108,948 members that receive our newsletter.
Have a news tip? Let us know.
Maritime and offshore news trusted by our 108,948 members delivered daily straight to your inbox.
Essential news coupled with the finest maritime content sourced from across the globe.
Sign Up