The Volcan-De-Tamasite: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

In an exciting development for maritime operations, the 'Volcán de Tamasite' and the catamaran 'Villa de Agaete,' part of the Grupo Armas Trasmediterránea fleet recently acquired by DFDS, will undergo significant transformations. Both vessels are set to receive new names, undergo a fresh repainting reflecting their new ownership branding, and switch from the Spanish flag to the Cypriot flag. This move aligns with DFDS's operational practices in the Strait of Gibraltar, similar to FRS. The Cypriot registry is renowned for its efficiency regarding administrative processes and inspections, boasting a computerized system that operates round the clock. These changes mark a new chapter in the ongoing evolution of maritime transportation in the region.

On March 9, 2019, at approximately 7 p.m., the ferry 'Volcán de Tamasite' encountered a mishap while docking at ramp 1 of the La Esfinge dock in Puerto de La Luz, located in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The incident was attributed to inclement weather conditions, resulting in hull damage to the vessel. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries or fuel leaks. Passengers aboard experienced a noticeable jolt, particularly those situated in their vehicles on the car deck, who were ready to disembark when the impact occurred. Some vehicles were knocked into each other due to the collision and sustained minor damages. Following the event, the ferry successfully navigated away from the dock and anchored in the bay until the Boluda VB Alborán Group's tugboat arrived to assist with safely maneuvering the vessel back to port. This docking attempt was completed without further complications at 7:34 p.m., utilizing ramp number 5, which is distant from the dam and part of the ongoing construction of a new passenger terminal. Despite some distress, only one passenger reported a hand injury; however, they declined medical attention upon the arrival of an ambulance from the Canary Emergency Service (SUC). Passengers remaining in Gran Canaria were able to retrieve their vehicles, while those bound for the Tenerife capital had to switch to the fast-ferry 'Volcán de Teno,' which departed at 9:45 p.m., about 1.5 hours later than scheduled. The ferry company, Naviera Armas, attributed the accident to adverse sea and wind conditions. The 'Volcán de Tamasite' was subsequently docked at the local Astican Shipyard for repairs, arriving on March 15 at 11:30 a.m., and resumed service from Las Palmas on March 25 at 1:25 p.m.

The 'Volcán de Tamasite' has successfully concluded its repair work at Astican Yard, located in the Port of Luz, Las Palmas. The vessel had been undergoing maintenance since April 23 following a bow allision with the Nelson Mandela pier during its departure for Santa Cruz. The repair operations were finalized on June 12, enabling the ship to resume its journey. At 11 p.m. on the same day, the 'Volcán de Tamasite' set sail from Las Palmas, with Motril as its next destination, expected to arrive by June 14 at 7 p.m. For visual updates, you can view the photographs [here](http://forum.shipspotting.com/index.php/topic,15658.msg83495.html#msg83495).

The Ministry of Public Works' Investigation Commission for Marine Accidents and Incidents (CIAIM) has officially started a probe into the circumstances surrounding the allision of the cargo vessel 'Volcan De Tamasite' with the Nelson Mandela pier. This incident occurred due to a malfunction in the rudder's electrical panel, which rendered the system inoperative for a brief period as the ship was departing from the Port of Luz, en route to Tenerife. The investigation will run concurrently with the inquiry initiated by the Maritime Captaincy of Las Palmas following the incident. In terms of environmental impact, around 60 tons of gasoil that leaked into the waters have largely dissipated over the weekend. This quick dissipation can be attributed to the fuel's volatile nature, rising temperatures, and quick action taken by the Salvamento Marítimo boats, which effectively minimized potential coastal contamination through mechanical dispersion. The oil spill affected an area of approximately 500 meters around the Nelson Mandela pier. The rescue vessel 'Salvamar Nunki' was stationed to monitor the spill site, while the 'Guardamar Talia' kept watch over the La Garita area to detect any residual fuel. Additionally, the Sasemar 103 aircraft was dispatched for aerial surveillance. Anti-pollution efforts continued on April 25 to ensure the complete dissipation of the spilled oil. The individual injured in the allision has since been discharged after a weekend of hospital observation.