Discover the Nordost: Ratings & Maritime News

On September 15, 2016, in a dramatic maritime incident, the passenger ship 'Flinthörn' found itself grounded on the northern edge of Rute Plate, a stretch of water between Bensersiel and Langeoog. With 127 individuals onboard, including several school groups and a crew of three, the vessel was en route to Langeoog when it struck the sandbank. At approximately 3:30 p.m., the ship's captain promptly contacted the MRCC Bremen for assistance. A comprehensive rescue operation unfolded, featuring the participation of multiple rescue vessels. The DGzRS lifeboat 'Casper Otten,' engaged in a maneuver on the Jade, was among the first responders, along with the 'Neuharlingersiel' from the Neuharlingersiel station, 'Elli Hofmann-Röser' from Baltrum, and 'Bernhard Gruben' from Norderney, complemented by the police boat 'Bayreuth' and the customs vessel 'Helgoland.' As the water levels continued to drop, rescuers approached the stranded ship from the seaward side through Accumer Ee, which lies between Baltrum and Langeoog. A nearby pleasure boat made its way to the scene, successfully transporting all passengers to safety in three trips. Meanwhile, the crew of 'Flinthörn' stayed on board to strategize the refloating of the ship. Thanks to the rising tide, the vessel was eventually freed and safely docked in Langeoog at 8:20 p.m. This incident underscores the commitment and efficiency of maritime rescue teams in responding to emergencies at sea.

On August 1, 2014, the passenger vessel "Flinthörn" experienced a significant malfunction in the Wadden Sea near Langeoog, specifically at buoy LW 2. The ship, carrying 64 passengers, encountered engine issues that prompted a distress call to the DGzRS station Langeoog's rescue boat, "Casper Otten." Following the assistance, the "Flinthörn" was successfully towed to Langeoog's port. The engine failure was traced back to a mechanical fault in the diesel fuel supply system, which occurred while the vessel was engaged in a fishing excursion. Fortunately, after receiving additional bunker fuel, the ship resumed its cruise in the afternoon and even managed to host an evening cocktail cruise for guests. For more details and visuals, you can check the German report here: http://www.langeoognews.de/langeoog-aktuell/aktuelles/casper-otten-schleppt-flinthoern-11054/7fbb382de374743207f24810f9427e96/

On October 19, 2013, the coastal vessel 'Flinthörn' encountered trouble, running aground at the eastern tip of Langeoog while carrying 28 passengers. The ship's captain promptly reached out for assistance from the 'Casper Otten' lifeboat, stationed at the DGtzRS on Langeoog. Responding swiftly, the rescue team established a towing connection with the 'Flinthörn.' Thanks to their efficient efforts, the grounding incident was resolved within minutes, allowing the vessel to navigate back to port under its own power by 4:30 p.m.