Chemical-Marketer Faces Nonstop Challenges on European Waters

The Chemical-Marketer, a chemical tanker, has found itself in the spotlight recently due to a series of incidents that have led to significant operational disruptions across European ports. Most notably, on April 1, 2019, the vessel was involved in a collision with the Swiss river cruise ship Viking Idun in the Wester Scheldt near Terneuzen. The mishap occurred shortly after midnight, while the Chemical-Marketer was en route from Iskenderun to Antwerp and the Viking Idun was headed from Antwerp to Ghent. The collision resulted in damage to both vessels above the waterline; fortunately, there were no leaks reported on either ship.

The Viking Idun, carrying 171 passengers and 44 crew members, sustained considerable damage to its bow. Five passengers reported minor injuries, and one crew member required hospital examination, after which both vessels were towed to safety. For the Chemical-Marketer, the incident resulted in several breaches along the hull, requiring extensive inspections and pumping out of the ship before it could resume operations. Both ships were advised to remain docked; the Chemical-Marketer eventually departed for Rotterdam to discharge its cargo and undergo repairs on April 24.

Before this incident, on December 12, 2017, the Chemical-Marketer was already generating headlines due to an unrelated event at Peel Ports dock in Liverpool. At around 9 a.m., residents were alarmed by thick plumes of black smoke rising from the vessel's funnel, raising fears of a potential onboard fire. This was later attributed to a loose air flap on the ship's boiler, leading to a momentary combustion issue while operating on low sulphur gas oil. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that there was no emergency, and the situation was quickly rectified, allowing the Chemical-Marketer to depart for Antwerp shortly thereafter.

Now, with the investigation into the recent collision ongoing, the implications for the Chemical-Marketer's operations and future voyages remain under scrutiny. While it has endured significant setbacks, its return to service will hinge on the outcome of further inspections and repairs, alongside the necessary adjustments to enhance safety on the water for both crew and passengers alike.