MSC Baltic III Still Stranded Off Newfoundland Nearly 2 Weeks After Grounding

Nearly two weeks after running aground near Wild Cove, the MSC Baltic III remains stranded, with salvage operations facing significant challenges due to bad weather and rough seas.

The Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) has confirmed that the vessel cannot be safely refloated in its current condition due to serious structural damage and breaches in the hull.

The 2,478 TEU container ship, built in 2003 and flagged under Liberia, was en route from Montreal to Corner Brook when it lost power 12 nautical miles from the entrance of the Bay of Islands on February 15.

Poor weather conditions contributed to its grounding. The 20 crew members onboard were successfully airlifted by a CCG helicopter.

An assessment by the coast guard confirmed that MSC Baltic III has suffered significant breaches in its hull, leading to structural deformation.

Since the vessel is stuck on the seabed, officials have ruled out refloating it for now and are focusing on removing the cargo and fuel.

#CCGLive: This morning, our Marine Communications Traffic Services Centre from Port aux Basques, #Newfoundland, received a MAYDAY from the cargo ship MSC Baltic III located approximately 12 nautical miles outside the entrance to Bay of Islands. pic.twitter.com/fuo43s3wfH

— Canadian Coast Guard (@CoastGuardCAN) February 15, 2025

Tank soundings have revealed that the vessel is holding approximately 1.7 million litres of heavy fuel oil and marine gas oil. The CCG’s response vessel Jean Goodwill is stationed at the site with spill response equipment in case of an oil leak.

So far, no pollution has been observed, but authorities remain on high alert.

The ship’s manifest indicates it is carrying 470 containers, of which 283 are empty. Some of the loaded containers hold hazardous materials, including polymeric beads, which have been marked as a priority for removal.

Other cargo consists of fabrics, food products, and metals.

The salvage operation has faced repeated delays due to harsh sea conditions. With ongoing challenges in reaching the ship from the water, authorities are considering alternative methods, including repairing an old road and an all-terrain vehicle trail to access the remote location.

This would allow heavy equipment and trailers to be transported to the site. Another option being explored is constructing an access point from shore to the bow of the vessel.

“We appreciate the public’s understanding and cooperation as we work towards a safe, effective, and efficient response to this incident,” the CCG stated.

Reference: worldcargonews

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