The Stolt-Neckar: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

On October 11, 2018, a tragic incident occurred when the Dutch-flagged self-propelled tank barge "Stolt Neckar" (IMO No. 02320524, 2095 tonnes) collided with a road bridge spanning the Rhine-Herne Canal in Castrop-Rauxel. The accident took place around midday, resulting in the complete destruction of the vessel's wheelhouse. After extensive efforts, the master was tragically recovered deceased from the wreckage later that afternoon at approximately 5 p.m. Rescue operations required the barge to be towed to a nearby marina, where a mobile crane was brought in to methodically remove debris, allowing emergency services to reach the master who had unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. Fortunately, the remaining three crew members aboard the vessel escaped injury. Consequently, access to the canal for ship traffic was suspended, and the bridge was also closed as a precaution. Additionally, the allision resulted in damage to a power cable, leading to power outages in the surrounding area.