Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Explorer-America

A dramatic fire erupted aboard the bulk carrier 'Ultra Wollongong' on November 22, 2020, at approximately 11:15 p.m. at Canada Dock 2 in the bustling Port of Liverpool. The vessel, which had just arrived from Dublin on November 20 at 12:40 p.m., was carrying a load of scrap metal that ignited due to a malfunctioning lithium battery. The ship’s crew of 20 was promptly evacuated as a safety precaution. Emergency services, including the police and fire department, responded swiftly after receiving alerts from Liverpool Port Control. The Holyhead Coastguard deployed the Coastguard Rescue Team as a safety measure to protect emergency personnel on land. Fire crews and port authorities diligently monitored the 'Ultra Wollongong' until the hazardous cargo was safely removed. Tenders were on standby, ready to assist. Following the incident, the vessel’s seaworthiness was to be assessed through thorough inspections before it could resume its voyage.

On December 5, 2019, at 3:40 PM, the bulk carrier 'Ultra Wollongong' experienced a critical main engine failure while navigating Vancouver harbour. The vessel lost all forward propulsion capabilities, prompting the onboard pilot to call for assistance. Utilizing the assigned berthing tug, the pilot successfully maneuvered the ship to a safe berth. After addressing the mechanical issues, the 'Ultra Wollongong' set sail from Vancouver at midnight on December 8, bound for Singapore with an estimated time of arrival on December 30.

A critical medical emergency unfolded on June 30, 2018, when a Filipino crew member aboard the vessel 'Ultra Wollongong' suffered severe burns to his face and arms while navigating over 450 miles off the coast of Martinique. The CROSS AG promptly responded to the distress call and, in consultation with the Marine Medical Consultation Center (MCMC), determined that a medevac was necessary for the injured sailor. A helicopter, known as 'Dragon 972,' was dispatched to the location where the ship was redirected to facilitate the rescue operation. The successful hoist took place on July 1 around 8 p.m., approximately 80 miles east of Martinique. Following this emergency medical transfer, the 'Ultra Wollongong' continued its journey from Saint John towards its destination in Brazil, ensuring the safety of its remaining crew.