Working Conditions Aboard the Volgaborg

On November 24, 2025, at 11 a.m. local time, the bulk carrier 'Volgaborg' encountered a significant power failure while navigating the St. Mary's River, en route from Sault Ste. Marie to Duluth. As a precaution, the vessel deployed both its bow and stern anchors, prompting Soo Traffic to temporarily close the river to all maritime traffic in both directions. In close proximity to the incident, the vessels 'Bandura' and 'Shipka' immediately anchored in the Nine Mile (Hay Lake) Anchorage to await further instructions. Meanwhile, the downbound ship 'Federal Bering' successfully secured its position against the MacArthur Lock's lower wall with assistance from the tug 'Colorado' (MMSI: 367376340), which later proceeded to stand by the 'Volgaborg' for any required support. By noon, the tug 'Colorado' was joined by the 'CSL Welland', and the downbound vessel 'Edgar B. Speer' was temporarily held at the locks due to the incident. After approximately 2.5 hours, the 'Volgaborg' restored its power, allowing it to sail to the anchorage at the Soo Locks for inspection. Following a thorough assessment, US Coast Guard inspectors cleared the vessel to continue its journey upriver without the need for a tug assist. Subsequently, all the other vessels resumed their voyages in the order of their initial anchorage. For visual updates related to this incident, check out our photo gallery: https://www.facebook.com/groups/407597160668310/?multi_permalinks=1569588001135881&hoisted_section_header_type=recently_seen.