Baltic-Express Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

On the night of February 24, 2023, at 10:40 PM UTC, the cargo vessel 'Baltic Express' faced an unexpected challenge while navigating the river Nene. The ship, traveling from Riga to Wisbech with a total of eight individuals on board—comprised of a crew and two pilots—found itself aground on a mud bank at coordinates 52° 43' 21'' N, 000° 10' 00'' E. Loaded with 2,172 tonnes of timber, the vessel positioned itself roughly 3.2 nautical miles north of Wisbech when it became lodged. Immediate response efforts commenced, with the tug 'Fenlander' initially standing by before the arrival of the tug 'Conservator'. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of both tugs, the 'Baltic Express' was successfully refloated the following day, February 25, at 10:30 PM. The vessel proceeded under its own power, with the tugs accompanying it securely to port in Wisbech, ensuring the safety of all aboard.

On the evening of February 23, 2016, at approximately 7:45 PM, a maritime incident occurred as the vessel 'Lady Nora' approached Sutton Bridge from Wisbech. The ship collided with two crafts and pontoons owned by Fenland District Council within the Wisbech docks, located just north of the Cross Keys Bridge. The collision resulted in injuries to two pilots from the council’s marine team; both were reported to have sustained minor injuries. One of the injured pilots required a visit to the hospital for examination but was released that night. The other pilot consulted his GP the following morning and has been advised to take a few days off to recover. Fortunately, the collision did not disrupt public moorings in the area. Local police responded to the situation, and both the Marine Coastguard Authority (MCA) and the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) have been notified. They are working closely with the Harbour Authority to investigate the incident thoroughly. Meanwhile, the 'Lady Nora' continued on her journey, reaching Flushing where it docked at 2:45 PM on February 14. Upon arrival in the Netherlands, the vessel underwent an inspection by local authorities. For more information, you can view the report and photo linked here: http://www.fenlandcitizen.co.uk/news/latest-news/river-pilots-escape-with-slight-injuries-in-ship-crash-at-sutton-bridge-1-7229986.