What Crew Members Say About Eems-Sun

On November 28, 2016, the vessel 'Eems Sun' found itself adrift for several tense hours after its engine experienced a critical breakdown. The incident unfolded between the evening of the 28th and early hours of the 29th, just off the coast near Vilanova. Having departed from the port of Barcelona at 8:30 p.m., the ship’s fate took a turn around 3 a.m. when it was situated approximately 11 miles offshore, and its engine ceased to function. In response to the emergency, Salvamento Marítimo promptly extended an offer to assist with a tow, providing the tug 'Punta Mayor,' which had been on standby since noon under the direction of the Maritime Captaincy. However, the captain of the Eems Sun opted to decline this initial help, preferring instead to attempt repairs on the vessel. Unfortunately, the repairs proved unsuccessful, and as conditions worsened with forecasts predicting waves of up to two meters and winds reaching 25 knots, the captain faced the reality of needing external assistance. He attempted to contract a private tugboat based in Sant Carles de la Ràpita, but it was reported that this vessel would take approximately eight hours to arrive. After enduring multiple directives from authorities, he agreed to accept the assistance of the 'Punta Mayor', allowing it to tow the Eems Sun toward the safety of the nearest port. The tug successfully delivered the vessel to the port of Tarragona, where it docked at the Llevant Dam around 11 p.m., following three hours of towing. Upon arrival, the vessel was detained, and the Maritime Captaincy opened a disciplinary case against the captain for disobedience, stipulating that the ship could not set sail until a requested deposit was settled. Due to these complications, the Eems Sun remained at dock until December 2, when it finally resumed its journey, departing for Flixborough at 8:30 p.m., with an estimated arrival on December 12. For further details, refer to Spanish news sources: [Naucher](http://www.naucher.com/es/actualidad/el-eems-sun-se-quedo-a-la-deriva-frente-al-puerto-de-vilanova/_n:5685/) and [Diari de Tarragona](http://www.diaridetarragona.com/tarragona/75942/capitania-maritima-de-tarragona-sancionara-un-buque-por-desobediencia).