(WILD COVE, Newfoundland and Labrador) — Almost two weeks after running aground on the coast of Newfoundland, the containership MSC Baltic III remains firmly settled on the seabed, with salvage operations hampered by bad weather as authorities consider building a road to access the ship, World Cargo News reported.
The 2,478-TEU vessel, which ran aground near Wild Cove on Feb. 15, cannot be safely refloated in its current condition, according to the Canadian Coast Guard’s latest update. The vessel has settled firmly on the seabed and is currently stable. An assessment conducted over the weekend confirmed “significant” holes in the hull, with tank soundings showing about 450,000 gallons of heavy fuel and marine gas oil onboard.
Given the current state of the vessel, the Canadian Coast Guard said salvage operations will prioritize the removal of fuel and cargo. The salvage team continues to assess the situation as weather conditions permit, with discussions underway regarding the potential construction of a road to facilitate access to the ship and mitigate delays caused by rough seas.
While no pollution has been observed, the Canadian Coast Guard is maintaining a high level of preparedness, with aerial and shoreline monitoring ongoing. The cutter CCGS Jean Goodwill remains on site, equipped with spill response gear, providing assistance as required.
