LNG Tanker Explorer Encounters Problems Off India

Exmar Shipmanagement, managers of the LNG carrier Explorer, reported that the vessel experienced a fire in the engine room on June 14 about 240 west of Mumbai, India.

“The fire was promptly extinguished by the ship’s crew using portable fire extinguishers. No casualties or injuries occurred, but the ship’s propulsion was lost,” Exmar said in a statement.

At this moment the situation is stable and the ship is under tow at a safe distance from shore. The crew is making a full assessment of the damaged machinery. Electrical systems fully powered by auxiliary diesel engine, steam plant is shut down.

The vessel has 31 crew on board, mainly European officers and Filipino ratings and a complete team of security guards. She was underway in ballast from the discharge port in India heading towards a loading port in the Middle East.

“The authorities have been notified and the Owners have chartered an ocean going tug for assistance,” the company added.

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LNG World News Staff, June 19, 2014; Image: Excelerate Energy