The Louisa-Bolten: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On November 2, 2023, the cargo ship 'Southern Puma' arrived at the Exempt Dock of the Port of Algeciras around 9 AM, where it will remain docked until a shipyard slot opens up for essential repairs. The freighter sustained hull damage following a collision with the 'Louisa Bolten' approximately 20 miles off the coast of Punta Europa in the Mediterranean. The impact resulted in a leak from one of the starboard tanks of the 'Southern Puma'. Prior to initiating repairs, the Maritime Authority and the Port Authority of Algeciras Bay (APBA) have mandated that the vessel's cargo be transferred to another ship under specified conditions and at a designated location. This decision will follow a comprehensive assessment of the damage to the 'Southern Puma'. Although the compromised tank currently poses no immediate environmental threat, additional safety protocols have been enacted, including the placement of a containment barrier to further safeguard against any potential spills. Environmental organization Verdemar Ecologistas en Acción has called on the Maritime Authority to assess the ecological impact of a potential discharge estimated at 600 tons of paraffin in the Strait of Gibraltar. The cargo ship was en route to the refinery facilities in San Roque at the time of the incident. The Maritime Authority has reassured that, should a spill occur, the volatile nature of the substance will likely result in rapid evaporation without causing significant environmental damage. In response to the collision, the Salvamento Marítimo dispatched several SAR vessels, including 'Salvamar Atria', 'Luz de Mar', and 'Salvamar Denebola', to monitor the situation surrounding the 'Louisa Bolten', which is currently stationed about 20 miles from Ceuta while further details regarding the circumstances of the incident are investigated.

In the early hours of November 1, 2023, at 4:20 a.m., a significant marine incident occurred approximately 20 nautical miles from Punta Europa. The chemical tanker 'Southern Puma' (IMO: 9792008), traveling from Antwerp to Bilbao, collided with the bulk carrier 'Louisa Bolten', which was en route from Avonmouth to Aliaga. Following the collision, the 'Southern Puma' reported sustaining damage to one side, while the 'Louisa Bolten' experienced damage to its bow. Fortunately, both vessels remained navigable, and there were no injuries reported among the crew members. Responding promptly, Salvamento Marítimo deployed several Search and Rescue vessels including 'Luz de Mar', 'Salvamar Denébola', and 'Salvamar Atria', alongside a helicopter and an aircraft, to investigate the scene and gather water samples. As daylight broke, the helicopter 'Helimer 220' flew over the area and identified a minor stain emanating from the 'Southern Puma'. Samples were collected by 'Salvamar Denébola' to be forwarded to the Maritime Authority of Algeciras. In a subsequent operation, an inspector from the Maritime Authority was transported to the site, with plans for further aerial surveillance in the afternoon to monitor the situation. At this stage, there are no indications that either ship was carrying hazardous cargo capable of causing pollution. However, the authorities were awaiting further details regarding the spill. The 'Louisa Bolten', with an estimated time of arrival at Aliaga on November 6, resumed its journey around 11 a.m. UTC, while the 'Southern Puma' was instructed to remain at the collision site. Environmental watchdog Verdemar Ecologistas en Acción has urged the Maritime Authority to assess the environmental impact of the estimated 600 tons of paraffin spilled into the Strait. The 'Southern Puma' was reported to be loaded with paraffin intended for discharge at the Moeve facilities (formerly Cepsa) in San Roque, Cádiz.

The LOUISA BOLTEN, with IMO number 9406049, successfully docked in the port of Churchill, Canada, on August 30, 2010. This significant arrival highlights the ongoing maritime activities within this key northern port, known for its unique logistical challenges and strategic importance in shipping routes.