Ruyter Vessel Reviews and Specifications

On November 8, 2019, the vessel 'Ruyter', which was making its way from Kotka to Delfzijl, encountered a significant engine failure as it was entering the historic Northern lock of the Kiel Canal in Brunsbüttel around 06:30 a.m. This unfortunate incident prompted local police to initiate an investigation while the ship remained secured within the lock. To assist with the situation, the tugs 'Bugsier 15' and 'Bugsier 19' were deployed, successfully maneuvering the 'Ruyter' out of the lock and back into the canal in a stern-first direction. By 08:15 a.m., the vessel was safely moored at the railway station pilings in Brunsbüttel. After addressing the technical issues, the 'Ruyter' was able to resume its journey on November 10 at noon, ultimately arriving at its destination in Delfzijl on November 11 at 10:40 p.m., docking at the merchant port.

On October 10, 2017, the cargo vessel named "Ruyter" found itself grounded off the coast of Northern Ireland due to an alarming oversight. Investigators have confirmed that the vessel's captain left the bridge unattended, creating a dangerous situation at sea. Adding to the concern, the main alarm system was also left inactive, which would have been crucial in alerting the crew to the imminent danger. This incident highlights the critical importance of vigilance and adherence to safety protocols on board ships. For a detailed account, visit the full report at http://www.marinemec.com/news/view,accident-report-empty-bridge-leads-to-ship-grounding_52216.htm.

The freighter 'Ruyter', which was transporting timber from Russia, experienced a serious grounding incident upon its arrival at Warrenpoint on October 11 at 1:30 p.m. Initial observations indicated the vessel was down by the bow by 0.75 meters and showing signs of a list. Following docking, a thorough inspection uncovered extensive hull damage, including flooding in the bow thruster compartment, the double bottom, and forepeak tanks, as well as a shift in the deck cargo. In response, the port captain ordered an underwater inspection that confirmed severe damage to the forward section of the ship. The captain of the 'Ruyter', Aleksandr Iakovtsov, faced a £1,000 fine at the Armagh Magistrates’ Court after admitting to charges of faulty navigation. He accepted responsibility for failing to maintain a proper lookout and for navigating unsafely, resulting in the significant damage to the vessel. Judge Paul Copeland remarked on the situation, stating, "It should have been apparent to you as an experienced mariner that you were on a collision course as you left Islay towards Northern Ireland. You chose to leave the bridge as the ship approached the coast of Ireland, and it was clear from the radar that you were nearing the shore. Fortunately, the ship struck a shallow patch under the cliffs, allowing you to regain control in a short time. While you made an immediate report and engaged appropriate rescue services, it's fortunate no injuries occurred onboard. Although you may not have initially grasped the extent of the damage, there were no subsequent incidents, and I am satisfied that alcohol was not a factor or that other vessels were endangered. Considering your 31 years at sea, including 16 years as captain, this incident will impact your future career." Following the hearing, Iakovtsov returned to Russia. The timber cargo was successfully unloaded at Warrenpoint, but the 'Ruyter' remains detained by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) until the owners present a plan for necessary repairs and the vessel can be towed to a dock for safe repairs. The ship had departed from Lemosov, Russia, on October 3, making stops in Copenhagen and South Ronaldsay, Scotland, before her final approach to Northern Ireland. Just after 10:30 p.m. on October 10, the UK Coastguard received a radio report indicating that the vessel had run aground on the northern side of Rathlin. The Rathlin Coastguard Rescue Team and the Portrush RNLI lifeboat were dispatched to oversee the incident as the 'Ruyter' managed to correct itself and prepare for further sailing. She subsequently contacted HM Coastguard in Belfast to notify them of the grounding, reporting no damage at that stage. With Storm Ophelia approaching, the freighter was permitted to dock at Warrenpoint, where upon inspection, it was detained by the MCA.