Ferry TOLL
Two general cargo ships, the Portuguese-flagged “BUGOE” and Latvian-flagged “FRIENDLAND,” became stranded overnight in the vicinity of Estonia due to harsh winter conditions. Strong overnight winds immobilized and left the two small cargo vessels stranded
The Latvian-flagged FRIENDLAND, weighing 4,700 dwt, encountered winds of approximately 30mph that led to drift ice blocking the shipping lane and trapping the ship. Despite boasting the highest-rated ice class A1 hull, the ship came to a standstill against the ice.
Upon becoming trapped in the ice, the FRIENDLAND issued a distress call. The “Toll,” a 5000 dwt ferry operated by TS Laevad ferries, successfully opened a channel to the ship and escorted it to open waters, enabling the vessel to resume its journey back to Finland.
The other vessel BUGOE, veered off course due to ice flows and strong winds, resulting in it becoming stranded in shallow waters on the edge of the Väinameri bay. Despite attempts by a local tugboat and pilot boat to rescue the BUGOE, the adverse weather conditions thwarted their efforts. The ship will remain lodged in its current location until the winds subside and the waterline returns to normal.
Estonia’s Maritime services had issued reports of severe ice conditions in the region. These reports also indicated that the severe weather conditions would be further intensified by the ongoing winter storm and strong winds. Consequently, both the Estonian state and the local transport administration announced the suspension of pilot services for escorting vessels in the area due to the prevailing weather conditions.
The opinions expressed herein are the author’s and not necessarily those of News2Sea.
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