What Crew Members Say About Snapper

On May 20, 2014, at approximately 6 p.m., the cargo vessel Abuk Lion encountered engine troubles, potentially linked to a turbocharger malfunction, while navigating the Wester Scheldt. In response to the emergency, the crew deployed the ship's anchors to maintain position. Prompt assistance arrived via the tugboat Evergem, which facilitated the safe mooring of Abuk Lion in the Great Dock of Ghent by 7:30 p.m. Notably, this incident follows a recent repair at Ringaskiddy, as the ship had experienced a breakdown near Kinsale just two months prior. For visuals of the event, refer to the provided ship spotting gallery: [Photo 1](http://www.shipspotting.com/gallery/photo.php?lid=2037741) and [Photo 2](http://www.shipspotting.com/gallery/photo.php?lid=2037745).

On December 31 at 3 p.m., the cargo vessel 'Abuk Lion' safely docked at Ringaskiddy in Cork after experiencing harrowing conditions at sea. The ship had been adrift for nearly two days due to a disabled engine, first becoming incapacitated on December 29 at 3 p.m. Attempts to attach a tow with the tug 'Celtic Isle' were hindered by massive swells reaching up to seven meters. Sent from Cork, the 'Celtic Isle' arrived on the scene around 1 a.m., while a Coast Guard helicopter stood ready in Waterford to assist if needed. After a challenging night, by the morning of December 30, the towing connection was finally established. Both vessels then made their way toward Cork Harbour at a slow speed of three knots, despite difficult weather conditions. A total of 13 crew members were onboard the 'Abuk Lion,' which was fully laden with bauxite destined for aluminium production in St. Petersburg. In a coordinated effort, the Irish naval vessel 'LE Roisin' also joined the mission, ensuring safety as they navigated back to shore. However, the heavy seas caused the all-important towline to break multiple times, requiring great perseverance from the crew to reestablish the connection. As conditions continued to worsen, the cargo ship had to drop anchor at the entrance of Cork Harbour after over 12 hours of towing, with the 'Celtic Isle' remaining alongside in Ringabella Bay for the night. Finally, at 6:30 a.m. on New Year’s Eve, efforts resumed to bring the 'Abuk Lion' to safety in port, but it took several more hours before a successful tow commenced. For further information and photo documentation, visit the following links: [Irish Mirror](http://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/standed-cargo-ship-abuk-lion-2972), [Irish Examiner](http://www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/navy-and-coastguard-secure-safety-of-13-crew-aboard-stricken-bulk-carrier-253898.html#292), [RTÉ News](http://www.rte.ie/news/2013/1), and [More on RTÉ](http://www.rte.ie/news/2013/1231/495407-abuk-lion-cork/230/495206-ship-cork-coast/).

The Abuk Lion, a 108-meter bulk carrier registered in Bermuda, has found itself adrift approximately 33 miles off the Old Head of Kinsale in County Cork. Battling strong winds and significant sea swells, the vessel was en route from Aughinish in County Clare to St Petersburg, Russia, and is currently carrying a full load of bauxite. The situation escalated around 3 PM when the vessel reported a failure in its main engine. In response, the Coast Guard dispatched a tug boat from the port of Cork to assist the distressed bulk carrier, with an expected rendezvous time of approximately 3 AM. As the Coast Guard actively monitors the unfolding scenario, a helicopter stationed in Waterford remains on standby. At present, sea conditions are rough, with Force 8 winds and wave heights reaching up to six meters. There are 13 crew members aboard the Abuk Lion, who are not believed to be in immediate danger. For further updates, visit http://www.rte.ie/news/2013/1229/495177-abuk-lion/