Working Conditions Aboard the Ankerfisk

On June 25, 2017, the fishing vessel 'Ankerfisk' issued a distress call after reporting significant water ingress in its engine room. At 9:48 a.m., the crew sent out a mayday signal while the vessel drifted dangerously in turbulent waters of the North Sea, experiencing strong winds reaching speeds of up to 31 knots. The location was approximately halfway between Aberdeen and Stavanger. A coordinated salvage operation was promptly initiated, mobilizing the offshore tug 'REM Leader' (IMO: 9627772), a guard vessel from Utsira, the patrol boat 'Sortland' (IMO: 9432646), and a Sea King rescue helicopter, along with various Good Samaritans. By noon, additional pumping equipment was transferred to the 'Ankerfisk', which allowed the crew to manage the flooding. They reported that the situation was brought largely under control, and by 4 p.m., the leak had been sealed. With the immediate crisis averted, the intensity of the rescue operation was subsequently reduced. The 'Sortland' escorted 'Ankerfisk' to Egersund, where it arrived on the morning of June 26. Following repairs, the vessel departed Egersund again and docked at Hovland Port on June 28 at 3 p.m. After a brief stay, 'Ankerfisk' left Hovland Port on July 3 at 3:30 p.m. and proceeded to Hirtshals, arriving at Hirtshals Dockyard on July 4 at 9:45 a.m. for necessary repairs.