Discover the Mergus: Ratings & Maritime News

Authorities are currently investigating a near-miss involving the 'Finnswan' (IMO: 9336256) and the 'Mergus' (IMO: 8324517), which nearly collided in a narrow fairway between Korpo and Norrsata on November 13 at 12:48 p.m. The incident occurred as the 'Mergus' was making its way from Norrskata to Korpo, while the 'Finnswan' was en route from Naantali to Kapellskär. The two vessels came alarmingly close, with just ten meters separating them at one point. To avoid a potential collision, the 'Mergus' executed a maneuver known as a cow turn, completing a full circle to escape the situation. At the time, the 'Mergus' was carrying three crew members and two passengers, whereas the 'Finnswan' had 82 passengers and 38 crew onboard. Following the incident, both ferries continued their journeys unharmed. Finferries and Finnlines reported the occurrence to the relevant authorities, and an internal review has already begun among the staff involved. Furthermore, a meeting with Finnlines has been scheduled to discuss the matter further. Notably, this is not the first time the 'Mergus' has found itself in a precarious situation; it was involved in a similar incident on a foggy summer night in 1997 when it collided with the ferry 'Finnmaid', fortunately causing only minor damage and no injuries.

On November 13, 2019, at 12:48 p.m., a dramatic near miss occurred in the Finnish waters between the ferries 'Finnswan' and 'Mergus'. The incident transpired as the 'Mergus', which had just departed Norrska dock, was en route to Korppoo, needing to navigate through a bustling shipping lane. Typically, this journey takes about fifteen minutes. At the same time, the 'Finnswan' was making its way from Naantali to Kapellskär. Remarkably, both vessels found themselves only 30-40 meters apart, a dangerously close distance that raised alarms about a potential collision. Thanks to swift maneuvering by the crews of both ships, a disaster was averted. The 'Mergus' performed a quick cow turn, effectively completing a full circle to ensure safety. At the time of the incident, the 'Mergus' carried a crew of three and two passengers, while the 'Finnswan' had a total of 120 individuals on board, comprising 82 passengers and 38 crew members. Following the incident, both ferries continued their respective journeys unscathed. An internal investigation was promptly launched by the ferry operators, with staff interviews initially conducted, and a meeting with Finnlines was scheduled to discuss the occurrences. Notably, the 'Mergus' had the right of way in this situation, emphasizing the importance of adherence to maritime navigation rules.

On September 24, 2012, at approximately 10 a.m., the ferry 'Mergus' experienced an electrical malfunction, leading to its temporary removal from the Korpo-Houtskär route. Finferries swiftly responded by deploying the 'Replot' as a substitute vessel to ensure continuity of service for travelers. Following the incident, the 'Mergus' was directed to Galtby for necessary repairs, with hopes set on returning it to operational status by September 25.