The Mustang: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

Early in the morning on May 6, 2019, a serious maritime incident unfolded in the Kattegat region northwest of Grenen, involving the Danish trawler "Moonlight ND-58" (IMO: 8944434) and the tugboat towing a grain-laden vessel, identified as the "Mustang". The "Mustang," which had departed Gdynia bound for Frederikshavn on April 30, collided with the shrimp trawler at approximately 3:30 a.m. The impact struck the port side of the Moonlight, putting the vessel and its crew of five in peril as it rapidly filled with water and faced an imminent sinking threat. The tugboat, approaching from the southwest at a speed of four knots, caused the trawler to sustain significant damage, including a hole in its hull and severe impairment to the railing amidships and the wheelhouse. In response to the emergency, the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) was immediately notified, dispatching two rescue vessels and a helicopter to the scene to ensure swift action if required. Additionally, Lyngby Radio sounded the alarm, notifying nearby vessels of the unfolding crisis. The Skagen Rescue Station mobilized its fast-response boat "FRB 8," equipped with pumping gear, which was followed closely by the lifeboat "Lars Kruse". Rescue personnel boarded the Moonlight, deploying pumps that successfully tackled the water ingress, effectively stabilizing the situation within thirty minutes. Since the damage was above the waterline, the threat of sinking was alleviated. After regaining stability, the Moonlight was able to navigate back to Skagen under its own power, escorted by both lifeboats to ensure safe passage. Upon arrival at the port, the trawler awaited an assessment from its insurance company regarding the incurred damages. The incident has also been referred to the Maritime Assistance Service (MAS) and the Danish Maritime Authority, leading to ongoing investigations into the collision. Following the assessment, repairs for the Moonlight are set to take place at Karstensens Shipyard. Meanwhile, the "Mustang" continued its voyage towards Frederikshavn, leaving the scene of the collision behind. For those interested in further visuals and detailed reports on this dramatic event, the following links provide firsthand accounts: [Fiskerforum Report](https://fiskerforum.dk/dramatisk-paasejling-af-fiskefartoej-nord-for-skagen-i-nat/), [TV 2 Local News](http://nyheder.tv2.dk/lokalt/2019-05-06-mayday-i-nat-kutter-og-slaebebaad-stoedt-sammen-nord-for-skagen), [TV 2 Nord Article](https://www.tv2nord.dk/artikel/fiskekutter-sejlet-ned-af-slaebebaad-nord-skagen).