Discover the Beethoven: Ratings & Maritime News

Early in the morning on May 16, 2019, the oil tanker 'Beethoven' collided with jetty II of the historic lock in Brunsbüttel while navigating from the Kiel Canal toward the North Sea. The vessel was en route from Antwerp to Immingham when the incident occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m. During the allision, significant damage was inflicted on three pilings and the jetty wall, while the tanker itself sustained minor scratches. Following the mishap, the 'Beethoven' was anchored at the North West Anchorage with coordinates 53° 52.95' N 009° 5.13' E. Local authorities, including the police vessel 'Vossbrook,' quickly initiated an investigation into the incident. Initially suspected of being caused by technical failure, attention turned to the vessel's master after police officers detected an alcohol odor during questioning. A subsequent breathalyzer test yielded a high reading of 2.97 per thousand alcohol. Consequently, authorities took a blood sample from the captain and imposed a safety fine of €2,500. Investigations into the captain's conduct were launched, and the vessel was detained pending a class survey and proper crewing arrangements. The 'Beethoven' was cleared to depart Brunsbüttel on May 17 at 12:30 a.m., continuing its journey and arriving in Immingham on May 19 at 6:40 a.m. After a brief stop, the tanker set sail again on May 20 at 4:15 p.m., heading for Rotterdam, with an estimated arrival time of May 21.