Wales Ship Details and Seafarer Feedback

On October 19, 2011, the maritime trade vessel "Snow Star" became the center of a substantial ecological crisis when it leaked considerable quantities of heavy oil into the waters of the port of Gävle and the adjacent Gävle Bight. This incident is highlighted as one of the most significant oil spills in the harbor’s recent history, with estimated losses ranging between five to seven cubic meters of fuel. Fortunately, the Rescue Service was quick to respond and has since managed to contain the majority of the heavy fuel, establishing control over the situation. Further investigations revealed additional small oil traces on October 20 near Heros Ground in the Ytter Bay. The "Snow Star" had originally visited Gävle on the morning of October 14 to offload ore concentrates. However, by the morning of October 19, the Coast Guard identified an oil slick in the Falkenberg port, which raised suspicions concerning the "Snow Star," which had already departed before authorities could reach the scene. Later, the vessel was tracked as it made its way back towards Gävle, where the captain reported discovering an oil spill. A Coast Guard aircraft had previously detected oil accumulation in the navigational route leading to Gävle's port, prompting an imminent boarding of the "Snow Star." Notably, a substantial amount of oil was located in one of the ship's valves. The response team included both the Coast Guard and the police, who promptly initiated a preliminary investigation. This case has since been referred to the Environmental Prosecutor located in Gothenburg for further action. The Coast Guard continues to conduct investigations in the Gävle Bight, including the collection of crucial samples for analysis. For additional details, refer to the Swedish report with accompanying photographs: http://gd.se/nyheter/gavle/1.4026136-fartyg-lacker-olja-i-hamnen.