Tanker Loaded With 25,000 Tonnes Of Fuel Catches Fire At France’s Port-la-Nouvelle

A Greek-operated product tanker, Kriti Captain (37,434 dwt) has been safely towed to Marseille, France after a fire started in its engine room.

The vessel, carrying diesel fuel, was unable to continue its journey by itself and required assistance.

The fire broke out late on January 25 while the Kriti Captain was docked at Port-la-Nouvelle. The tanker had arrived from Augusta, Italy, on the same day loaded with 25,000 tonnes of diesel fuel for shipment to France.

Per reports, the vessel was discharging ultra-low sulphur diesel when the fire started at around 01:00 local time on January 26. The Aude Perfect reported that the captain requested assistance, and 55 firefighters were deployed to contain and extinguish the fire.

The Maritime Prefecture of the Mediterranean confirmed the incident and stated that the fire was extinguished by the crew.

Avin International, the ship’s operator, reported that after evaluating the situation and implementing safety precautions, the engine room was evacuated, and the CO₂ fixed fire extinguisher system was activated.

The company stated that the fire was…

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