Cargo Ship Carrying Artillery Shells Stuck In Vigo After Containers Break Loose

The German-owned freighter HC Eva Marie, carrying artillery shells from Jordan to Germany, remains docked at the Port of Vigo, Spain, after experiencing a cargo shift caused by Storm Eowyn.

The vessel sought refuge at the port after waves exceeding 10 meters made navigation unsafe, with another storm, Herminia, approaching.

The 11,000 dwt tween-decker, built in 2007 and flagged in Antigua, was transporting 96 containers when nine broke loose, suffering external structural damage.

An initial inspection was conducted on February 1 by an expert from the loading company, the ship’s captain, and security personnel, along with representatives from the consignee and the Port Authority’s Security Division.

Officials confirmed that the artillery shells inside the damaged containers were intact and securely packed within protective boxes. The cargo was stowed following international safety standards and was not at risk of being compromised.

Due to the nature of the ship’s cargo, the Vigo Port Authority (APV) assigned it a berth at the dangerous goods pier. The area has been under 24-hour security surveillance, monitored by Port Police, Civil Guard, and private security personnel since hours before the vessel’s arrival.

A coordination meeting was held at the central offices in Praza da Estrela, attended by all involved parties, including the ship’s consignee, stevedoring company, Maritime Authority, Civil Guard, APV, and the loading company representative.

Authorities stated that the vessel entered Vigo as the safest option to avoid further damage and potential cargo loss at sea. They said that there was no risk to people or port infrastructure at any time.

The cargo company is currently working on a safety plan for removing and securing the damaged containers, which is being reviewed and validated by all necessary authorities. The plan involves:

• Moving undamaged containers to another hold to isolate the affected ones.
• Inspection of the damaged containers by specialists in handling dangerous goods, who will arrive in Vigo within hours.
• Transferring cargo from damaged containers into pre-prepared empty containers, all done on board the ship without unloading merchandise onto the dock.
• Ensuring all containers are properly secured and lashed before departure.

Authorities confirmed that the mandatory risk analyses were conducted to ensure compliance with regulations and to maintain the safety of the crew, infrastructure and vessel.

Reference: Port of Vigo

Marine Insight Academy

Online courses for the Maritime industry!

Enroll For Maritime Courses

• 100 + Free & Premium Courses
• Learn at your own speed
• Earn certificates on completing Premium Courses
• Quizes to evaluate your knowledge
• Interactive videos

Take Maritime Courses

Marine Insight Academy

Enroll For Maritime Courses

• 100 + Free & Premium Courses
• Learn at your own speed
• Earn certificates on completing Premium Courses
• Quizes to evaluate your knowledge
• Interactive videos

Take Maritime Courses

About Author

Marine Insight News Network is a premier source for up-to-date, comprehensive, and insightful coverage of the maritime industry. Dedicated to offering the latest news, trends, and analyses in shipping, marine technology, regulations, and global maritime affairs, Marine Insight News Network prides itself on delivering accurate, engaging, and relevant information.

Read More Articles By This Author >

Related Articles

North Korean Ship Smuggling Coal Sinks After Collision With Chinese Vessel, Nearly 20 Dead

Royal Navy Frigate Uses Advanced Drone To Seize £5.4 M Drugs In Middle East

Crew Members Of Dredger Found Guilty In Singapore’s Worst Oil Spill In A Decade

Watch: Out Of Control Tanker Crashes Into Pier & 3 Brazilian Navy Patrol Boats

Massive Fire Breaks Out On Tanker Engaged In Illicit Fuel Transfer, Kills 3 Crew Members

Norwegian Cruise Line Takes Delivery Of Its First $850 Million Prima Plus-Class Cruise Ship