The Claude-A.-Desgagnes: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On April 21, 2019, at 08:30 a.m., the bulk carrier Claude A. Desgagnes encountered engine troubles while sailing from Esbjerg to Houston. The incident occurred 24 miles south-southeast of St. Albans Head, precisely positioned at 50° 11' 42" N and 001° 53' 36" W, with the ship maintaining a speed of 3.8 knots. With a crew of 18 on board, the vessel needed to initiate repairs on engine injector no. 4 which required it to drift for approximately two hours within the southwest lane of the English Channel Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS). At the time of the incident, Claude A. Desgagnes was transporting 2,230 tons of bulk cargo along with various equipment containers. Thankfully, by 11:40 a.m., the ship's engine issues were resolved, allowing it to continue its journey with an estimated time of arrival (ETA) in Houston set for May 5.

Groupe Desgagnés, based in Quebec City, has proudly welcomed the Claude A. Desgagnés as the newest addition to its diverse fleet, which includes general cargo, tankers, and passenger vessels. This marks the 18th ship in their operations, and it will predominantly serve the Eastern Arctic region as well as international routes. The vessel was constructed and launched in China last year at a cost of $25 million. Named in honor of Capt. Claude Desgagnés, who boasts an impressive 50-year tenure with the family-owned transportation group, the ship's legacy roots trace back to the 19th century. With a length of 139 metres and a remarkable freight capacity of 20,000 cubic meters, this ice-class A vessel will proudly sail under the Canadian flag. The arrival of the Claude A. Desgagnés fits seamlessly into Groupe Desgagnés's ambitious long-term expansion strategy, which has a budget of $250 million and was initiated in 2008-2009.