Two Ships Collide in Kiel Canal, Germany

A coastal cargo ship Siderfly collided with Dutch-flagged gas carrier Coral Ivory early Monday morning in the Kiel Canal, in Northern Germany, according to Germany’s Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (CCME).

As a result, the Canal has been closed. The first damage reports indicate that the cargo ship is leaking diesel from two holes of 3×5 meters on its port side, whereas the Coral Ivory hasn’t been damaged. Fortunately, nobody was injured in the collision.

For the time being the wrecked Siderfly, which listed 45 degrees portside, is anchored with chains and wires on land to avoid risk of capsizing, therefore the stabilization work is completed. What is more, two tugs are holding the disabled vessel as a further precaution measure. Meanwhile, the owner of the ship has contracted a salvage company. The salvage experts along with the operations manager on site, relevant authorities and insurance representatives will discuss today the details on salvage operation’s further steps.

The Kiel Canal remains closed until further notice.

Siderfly was sailing from Brunsbuettel to Antwerpen when it collided with Coral Ivory heading from Brunsbuettel to Finland.

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World Maritime News Staff, October 29, 2013; Images: HavarieKommando