Video: Rudder Issue Leaves Cargo Ship Disabled in Scotland

A 1,200 tonne cargo vessel got disabled after its rudder broke in the Kylerhea Narrows, Scotland, in the morning hours of February 18.

Following the incident, the 65-metre-long CEG Universe deployed its anchor to try and hold position in the very strong tidal currents through the Narrows, while waiting for help, according to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

Once the RNLI Kyle lifeboat Spirit of Fred. Olsen arrived at the site, its crew members boarded the stricken vessel to assess the situation, while they awaited the arrival of a larger Severn class lifeboat.

Due to the 8 knots of tide which runs through the channel, and the fact that the cargo vessel’s rudder was jammed full to port, it was decided to wait for a tug to assist with the tow.

In the meantime, the ship’s anchor brake failed and the vessel began to drift backwards. Mallaig and Kyle lifeboats took the cargo vessel under tow and held it against the current until the tug arrived on scene.

The cargo ship was then manoeuvred through the Narrows and towed into Kyle Harbour at around noon the same day.

Video Courtesy: RNLI