What Crew Members Say About Carelia

On June 29, 2016, the passenger vessel 'Carelia' encountered a significant challenge while navigating the Saimaa Canal. The ship, which was traveling from Nuijamaa to Vyborg, became entangled in a rope that fouled its propeller. A diver was dispatched and managed to clear the obstruction within two hours. However, upon resuming its journey, the 'Carelia' experienced an engine failure, resulting in the vessel needing to return to Nuijamaa on June 30, operating on just one engine. In response to this mechanical issue, a spare part was ordered for prompt repairs, while the vessel 'Brahe' was dispatched from Hamina to take over operations during the repair period.

On May 27, 2016, a notable maritime incident unfolded in the Saimaa Canal, specifically in the Vyborg Sea Canal segment, involving the passenger vessel 'Carelia' and the cargo ship 'Kelt'. The 'Carelia', which was carrying a group of tourists and heading towards Vyborg, collided with the 'Kelt', which was making its way from Siilinjarvi to Landskrona, aiming for the Baltic Sea. Both vessels had Russian pilots at the helm during the incident. As the 'Kelt' attempted to overtake the 'Carelia' at a slower speed, the cargo vessel failed to adequately reduce its pace, creating a suction effect that drew its port side bow toward the starboard side of the 'Carelia'. The two ships remained entangled for approximately three minutes, resulting in minor damages, including dents and scratches on both vessels. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported. After the incident, the 'Carelia' docked safely at the port of Lappeenranta.