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Tag: Antarctica

Aurora Australis

Aurora Australis

Aurora Australis

The 95 meter long, 3911 dwt research vessel Aurora Australis ran aground in Horsehoe Harbour near Mawson Station, Antarctica. The Aurora Australis was moored in the harbour when a blizzard with strong winds reaching over 130km an hour cause the vessel to break its mooring lines. Pushed by the wind, the research vessel drifted aground. No reports of injuries to the 67 persons on board. Reports state the Aurora Australis was undamaged and no water ingress reported. No reports on when or if the research vessel will be salvaged.

Antarctic Chieftain

Antarctic Chieftain

antarctic chieftain

The 60 meter long fishing vessel Antarctic Chieftain became disabled in the South Ocean off Antarctica between Rossøya and Victoria Land. The fishing vessel with its 27 crew on board had become stuck in the ice with 3 of the vessel 4 propellers crushed by the ice. The crew requested assistance with the US Coastguard  icebreaker Polar Star responding.  The Polar Star broke the ice and reached the Antarctic Chieftain  a few days later. The Polar Star will tow the disabled fishing vessel to the open ocean where the fishing vessel Janas will take the tow and proceed  to the nearest harbour. No reports of injuries or pollution released.

Polonus wrecked off Antartica

Polonus wrecked off Antartica

Polonus
Photo: Antarctic Press

On December 23, the sailing yacht Polonus ran aground along the shores of King George Island, Antarctica.  The yacht with its four crew were rescued by an Argentinian patrol boat and taken to the nearby Polish polar station.  No reports of injuries or pollution released.  The yacht had made a trip to a nearby bay and dropped anchor when a sudden squall struck.  Reports state the vessel will be pulled free within a week or two.