Rescue Underway for Stricken Bulk Carrier Off Cork, Ireland

The Abuk Lion under tow by the tug Celtic Isle, December 30, 2013. Image courtesy Irish Naval Force

Efforts are underway to retrieve a stricken bulk carrier off the coast of Cork, Ireland that went adrift Sunday after losing power.

The crew of the bulk carrier, MV Abuk Lion, notified the coast guard Sunday at about 3 p.m. local time that the vessel had lost propulsion approximately 30 nautical miles from Old Head of Kinsale in adverse weather conditions, with waves reported to be up to 7 meters.

The coast guard dispatched the tug Celtic Isle to assist the vessel and tow her back to shore, but strong winds and waves prevented the tug from establishing a tow overnight. A coast guard spokesman said the Celtic Isle was able to connect to the vessel Monday morning and commence towing back to Cork.

Conditions in the area have been described as “challenging,” although it is not believed that the vessel is any immediate danger, according to the Irish Defence Forces. Unconfirmed reports have indicated that the towline parted at least once during the day, Monday.

The naval vessel LÉ Roisin is also on scene following a request from the coast guard.

The Abuk Lion is due into Ringaskiddy, Cork Harbour at approximately 11 p.m. Monday night, according to the Irish Naval Service.

The Bermuda-flagged Abuk Lion was underway from Aughinish to St Petersburg in Russia when it lost power Sunday. The vessel is reported to be carrying 7,500 tonnes of bauxite.

The Abuk Lion has a crew of 13.

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