Discover the Nimet-Torlak: Ratings & Maritime News

On December 19, 2017, at 3:20 PM, the bulk carrier Stellar Atlantic experienced an anchor loss while navigating the Kaliningrad Sea Canal in the presence of a pilot. The vessel, which had departed from Dunkirk, lost its starboard anchor along with the first shackle during its transit. Fortunately, the incident did not disrupt traffic within the canal, and the ship was successfully docked following the event.

In a maritime incident on August 24, 2017, at 5:02 a.m., the German river ferry 'Juliusplate' (MMSI: 211230650) collided with the bulk carrier 'Stellar Atlantic' on the Weser River. The ferry, which originated from the ferry point in Berne, struck the bulk carrier as it was en route from Bremen to Iskenderun. Preliminary investigations indicated the accident was primarily due to a navigational error by the captain of 'Juliusplate.' Fortunately, there were no injuries reported in this incident, although the resulting damage is estimated to be in the five-digit range. The impact occurred when 'Juliusplate' made contact with 'Stellar Atlantic,' causing a breach in the latter's hull and resulting in notable scratches. Following the crash, 'Stellar Atlantic' made its way to the WMSC-Gate in Bremerhaven for safety checks. In the collision, the ferry also lost its bow ramp, which ultimately submerged in the river. Recovery efforts by the sounding vessel 'Zenit' and the dredger 'Harriersand' commenced immediately but proved unsuccessful in locating the ramp until August 25. After the incident, 'Juliusplate' was taken to Fassmer Yard for repairs, which are anticipated to take about two weeks. To mitigate the disruption caused by the ferry's absence, two alternative ferries, 'Rönnebeck' and 'Stedingen' (operated by Blumenthal-Motzen), stepped in to provide service during the repair period. This incident highlights the importance of navigation safety on busy waterways like the Weser River.