The Capesize bulk carrier named Cape Falcon, which ran aground off the coast of Gladstone Harbor in Queensland, Australia, was refloated at high tide on the
The Capesize bulk carrier named Cape Falcon, which ran aground off the coast of Gladstone Harbor in Queensland, Australia, was refloated at high tide on the morning of September 24, after a week of rescue efforts.
The fully loaded ship, which has a carrying capacity of 182 thousand 66 DWT, ran aground approximately six nautical miles off the coast while maneuvering at low speed to the refueling anchorage area on September 18. Previous buoyancy attempts had failed, and the regional harbor master approved a rescue plan dependent on tide, weather and sea conditions.
Maritime Safety Queensland said the ship broke free in a high water window earlier than planned. Once floated, Cape Falcon was directed to anchor until investigation and technical checks were completed.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority detained the ship. Authorities announced that the ship will not be allowed to sail again until it is verified that safety and regulatory requirements are met. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau also launched a brief investigation and requested the protection of the voyage data recorder.
No crew injuries or marine pollution were reported in initial statements. In addition, the underwater survey of the hull, rudder, propeller and machinery systems and the bridge decision chain at the time of the incident will be the main topics of the investigation. Since Gladstone is one of the major coal and mineral export terminals, there were limited disruptions to the regional traffic schedule during the time the ship was grounded.
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
