Discover the Helme: Ratings & Maritime News

On December 9, 2019, at 8:10 p.m., the bulk carrier 'Arklow Day' departed from Avilés, Spain, where the consignee Algeposa had been overseeing the unloading of a substantial 9,950-ton cargo of slabs from Dunkerque, destined for the Aviles factory. Shortly after setting sail, the vessel was caught in tumultuous waters in the Bay of Biscay, where waves reached towering heights of up to 9 meters. At approximately 10:30 p.m., a rogue wave struck the vessel, causing extensive damage to the deck and resulting in flooding that injured five crew members who were inside the affected compartment. These crew members suffered serious injuries from flying debris, with steel fragments causing wounds across their bodies. The Spanish maritime rescue organization, Salvamento Marítimo, deployed the Helimer 206 helicopter from Cantabria, which happened to be on a training mission, to execute the medevac operation. Rescuers faced intense conditions over two hours, battling strong swells to successfully airlift the injured crew: four from the Philippines and one from Ukraine. The injured were subsequently transported to the port of Gijón for medical attention. One crew member was taken to Hospital de Jove in A Cabueñes, while three others were treated at Jove's hospital, and the most critically wounded individual was sent to the Universitario Central de Asturias (HUCA). Additionally, the rescue operation saw the involvement of the 'María de Maeztu' and 'Salvamar Rigel' vessels. Meanwhile, the remaining five crew members managed to navigate the 'Arklow Day' to the nearest port, reaching Gijón at 12:30 a.m. on December 10. After a brief stop, the ship resumed its journey, departing Gijón at 10:45 a.m. on December 13, and ultimately arriving at La Rochelle-Pallice on December 16 at 4:15 p.m. For more details, you can check the Spanish report here: https://www.elcomercio.es/asturias/rescatan-cinco-personas-20191210001555-nt.html and watch the related footage here: https://twitter.com/i/status/1204393657807310853.

In a heartbreaking accident, a 35-year-old Filipino crew member lost his life after being struck by a snapping mooring line on September 9, 2012, at approximately 12:45 PM. The incident occurred while the vessel 'Flinter Aland' was docked in the western lock of Terneuzen, as it was en route to Gent. Unfortunately, the crew member succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Authorities have since conducted interrogations with the Dutch captain and the remaining crew members.<br> <br> The management team and employees at Flinter are deeply saddened by the loss, extending their heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased. The company is actively working to notify the next of kin and is committed to providing comprehensive support during this challenging time.<br> <br> Following the incident, Flinter promptly informed the relevant authorities and the 'Flinter Aland' remained at its berth in Terneuzen. Senior representatives from the company, along with officials, were on-site to provide assistance to the crew still aboard the vessel. A thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic event will be undertaken by the appropriate authorities.