The Lagarfoss: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On December 27, 2020, the cargo ship 'Lagarfoss' encountered a serious issue when it lost engine power approximately 230 nautical miles southwest of Garðskagi. The vessel, which had departed from Reykjavik en route to Halifax on December 25, required immediate assistance. Owner Eimskip contacted the Iceland Coast Guard around noon to request the dispatch of the patrol vessel 'Thor' after on-board repairs failed to restore functionality. The patrol ship set sail from Reykjavik on the evening of December 27, reaching 'Lagarfoss' during the early hours of December 29. At 4 a.m., 'Thor' successfully established a towing connection and began the journey back to Reykjavik. Thankfully, weather conditions were favorable, and the crew aboard 'Lagarfoss' remained safe throughout the ordeal. The towing operation proved successful, allowing 'Lagarfoss' to dock at the Sundahoefn Container Terminal in Reykjavik on December 30 at 4 p.m. Inspections revealed significant damage to the vessel's crankshaft, indicating a need for a replacement. While repairs are expected to take several weeks, spare parts have already been procured and are on their way to Iceland. For further details and photos, visit the Icelandic Coast Guard's official site.

On July 23, the Icelandic Coast Guard vessel 'Thor' (MMSI: 251473110) embarked on a critical rescue mission to tow the disabled 'Lagarfoss', which had encountered mechanical issues south of Iceland on July 22. Initially hampered by poor weather conditions, the operation commenced as conditions improved. By July 24, the convoy entered the waters of Reykjavik, where the tugboats 'Jotunn' (IMO: 9518737) and 'Pilot Leynir' (IMO: 9126388) took over the towing responsibilities. At approximately 10 a.m. local time, the fleet set course for the port of Reykjavik, making steady progress at about 4 knots. For further details and images of the operation, visit the Icelandic Coast Guard's official report: http://www.lhg.is/frettirogutgafa/frettir/nr/3042.

Eimskip has announced a steering gear malfunction aboard the M/V LAGARFOSS during its journey towards Reykjavik, approximately 70 nautical miles southeast of the Icelandic coastline. Fortunately, favorable weather conditions ensured that there was no danger posed to the crew, cargo, or vessel. In a proactive measure, Eimskip has contracted the Icelandic Coast Guard for assistance in navigating M/V LAGARFOSS to Reykjavik using its own power. The Coast Guard vessel ÞOR is scheduled to rendezvous with M/V LAGARFOSS in the early hours of July 22 to facilitate this support. The estimated time of arrival for M/V LAGARFOSS in Reykjavik is anticipated for the morning of July 23. Notably, during a recent scheduled dry-docking in Hamburg, the steering gear manufacturer chose to replace several components of the gear. This decision raises concerns that the current malfunction may be the manufacturer's responsibility, thus putting the onus for any issues squarely on them.