HMM Containership and Greek Tanker Clash Near Algeciras

High-Seas Collision: HMM Containership and Greek Tanker Clash Near Algeciras

December 3, 2024 – Algeciras, Spain
In a dramatic early morning collision, one of the world’s largest containerships, HMM St. Petersburg, collided with the Greek-managed crude tanker Gloria Maris near the port of Algeciras. Spanish authorities are now detaining both vessels as investigations into the incident unfold.

No Injuries or Pollution Reported

The Collision occurred approximately 8.9 miles southeast of Algeciras at 5:20 a.m. local time. Spain’s Salvamento Marítimo quickly dispatched two patrol boats to the scene after being notified by the tanker. Initial assessments report structural damage to both ships, though both remain seaworthy. Authorities confirmed that no injuries or pollution resulted from the collision, sparing the area from an environmental disaster.

HMM St. Petersburg: A Giant of the Seas

The HMM St. Petersburg, a 229,000 dwt South Korean-flagged mega containership, was en route to Europe following a six-week voyage from Yantian, China. Skipping a scheduled stop in Colombo, Sri Lanka, the vessel’s next destination was Algeciras. Built in 2020, the St. Petersburg is part of HMM’s fleet of ultra-large containerships, boasting a massive capacity of 23,964 TEU.

Images from the scene show a significant dent on the starboard side of the vessel, near its deckhouse and bridge. Despite the damage, the Port Captain allowed the containership to dock at Algeciras for further inspection.

Gloria Maris: A Tanker in Transition

The Gloria Maris, a 156,620 dwt crude oil tanker registered in Liberia, had recently departed Cartagena, Spain on November 30 after offloading 147,564 tonnes of crude oil. Traveling in ballast, it was awaiting its next assignment. The collision left the tanker with a crushed bow, as seen in dramatic images shared online. Authorities have ordered the tanker to remain anchored near Algeciras for further safety checks.

Investigation Underway

The Port Captain of Algeciras is leading the initial investigation to determine the cause of the collision. Both vessels will undergo rigorous safety inspections before being cleared to leave the area.

The maritime community awaits further updates as authorities delve into the details of this high-stakes incident near one of Europe’s busiest ports. With two giants of the seas damaged and questions swirling about what went wrong, the stakes are high for both vessels and their operators. Stay tuned as this story develops.