Shipwreck Log

Photo: odin.tc

The 351 dwt fishing vessel Taigan caught fire while near the port at Wakkanai, Japan.  The vessel had arrived at Wakkanai with a cargo of crabs caught off Sakhalin Island near Korsakov, Russia.   The fire started in the vessel’s superstructure and quickly spread through the vessel.   Of the 23 crewmen on board the Taigan, six were trapped below decks and perished in the blaze.  Another three men were taken to hospital for minor burns.  The local authorities were able to extinguish the fire a few hours later.   The cause of the fire is under investigation.   Reports state the vessel’s cargo of crabs may have been illegally caught.  Other reports state the vessel had change names and ownership several time over the last few years.

Photo: nrk.no

The 50 foot long fishing vessel Vestervåg suffered a fire while in the Stavfjord near Florø, Norway.  The fire started in the vessel’s engine room.   The three crew requested assistance with the ferry Oyservice and tanker Bergen Star.   The ferry transported the fire brigade from Flora to the Vestervåg.   The fire brigade was able the extinguish the blaze.  No reports of injuries or pollution released.   The Oyservice took the Vestervåg under tow back to Florø.

Photo: nordlys.no

The 10 meter long fishing vessel Mari T-84-K caught fire near Loppa, Norway. The two crew on board were unable to control the blaze and were forced to abandon ship.   The two men donned their survival suits and jumped into the sea.  A lifeboat arrived on scene and rescued the two men.    One man suffered smoke inhalation and was taken to hospital for treatment.  The Mari T-84-K burned to the waterline and sank.

The 57 meter long fishing vessel Sur Este No. 700 went aground while sheltering behind Stewart Island, New Zealand.  The Sur Este No. 700 had sheltered behind the island due to the heavy seas with 30 knot winds when it was blown onto the rocks.  The vessel fuel tanks ruptured allowing some 23,000 litres of diesel fuel released into the water.   No reports of injuries.   Authorities will conduct an inspection of the area to gauge the impact of the pollution released.  The Sur Este No. 700 will be towed to Lyttelton for inspection and repairs.

Related articles

• Fishing boat hits rocks at Stewart Island (radionz.co.nz)