Discover the Sol-Singapore: Ratings & Maritime News

On November 24, 2021, the 'BF Timaru' encountered a critical engine issue while making its way from St. Petersburg to New Orleans, carrying a cargo of 9,000 metric tonnes of aluminium products. The vessel suffered a malfunction in the fourth cylinder of its main engine, causing it to drift at coordinates 49° 41' 24'' N, 007° 56' 24'' W, approximately 70 nautical miles west of the Isles of Scilly around 3:40 p.m. Seeking immediate assistance, the ship's crew contacted the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Falmouth. Initially, the Tamlyn shipping agent was alerted, and the tug 'Mercia' was dispatched to assist. However, due to adverse weather conditions, 'Mercia' was forced to turn back. Subsequently, the Dutch tug 'ALP Defender' (IMO: 9737242) was directed to the scene to provide towing support for the 'BF Timaru' towards Falmouth. By November 26 at 1:45 p.m., the distressed vessel had crossed into the French Search and Rescue Region (SRR), leading to a handover of coordination to CROSS Corsen, as the convoy shifted its destination towards a French port.

In a troubling development, the southern lock of the Kiel Canal in Kiel-Holtenau experienced another incident just two weeks after repairs were made. The allision involving the cargo vessel 'Akacia' had previously led to the installation of a reserve gate. On April 20, 2018, at 7 a.m., the 'BF Timaru' entered the lock following its eastbound transit through the canal but was unable to stop in time, colliding with the new gate. The impact caused noticeable denting above the waterline, prompting concerns about potential underwater damage due to the vessel's substantial draught of eight meters. Following standard procedures, a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) was deployed at 9 a.m. to inspect the submerged areas, completing its assessment by 9:30 a.m. without identifying any damage below the surface. After thorough investigations, the 'BF Timaru' was cleared to resume its journey from Las Palmas to Gdansk, where it arrived on April 23 at 11:30 a.m. The vessel departed Gdansk on April 28 at 4:45 p.m., with its next destination being Antwerp, estimated arrival time set for April 30 at 6 p.m. For a detailed report, including live updates and photographs, visit the [Kiel News website](http://www.kn-online.de/Lokales/Nord-Ostsee-Kanal/Liveblog-Suedschleuse-in-Kiel-Holtenau-nach-Havarie-wieder-gesperrt).

On December 2, 2011, the container ship Team Bremen successfully embarked from Tristan da Cunha with the dismasted Volvo Ocean Race yacht, Mar Mostro, on board. The loading operation took place smoothly in the evening, marking a critical step for Puma Ocean Racing as they continue their maritime journey towards South Africa, with an estimated arrival time set for December 6. The Mar Mostro, which faced dismasting approximately 750 miles north of Tristan da Cunha, required a mid-ocean fuel transfer before reaching the remote island where it awaited a capable vessel for hoisting. The operation to lift the yacht was executed in deep waters, raising concerns about the Atlantic swells potentially delaying the process or inflicting further damage on the yacht. Looking ahead, Puma Ocean Racing is targeting participation in the second in-port race in Cape Town on December 10, 2011, followed by the commencement of Leg 2 to Abu Dhabi the next day. The journey back to Cape Town could take between four to five days, during which the team intends to work on repairs to regain precious time. Their ambition is to reach Cape Town by December 6, enhancing their chances of stepping the replacement mast and joining the scheduled in-port race. The replacement mast, currently en route to Cape Town from Johannesburg after being flown in from the United States, is projected to arrive at the team's shore base by road at 9 a.m. on December 3. This development offers a glimmer of hope as they prepare to get back on track in the competitive Volvo Ocean Race.