A Hyundai Merchant Marine boxship and an oil tanker operated by a Greek shipowner collided yesterday morning off the port of Algeciras.
An initial inspection revealed structural damage to both vessels. Fortunately, both their crews were unharmed. The containership was reported to have suffered damage starboardside, while the tanker’s bow was crushed.
After ascertaining that there was no immediate danger, the Captain of the Port of Algeciras authorized the boxship to proceed to its berth in the port. The tanker was instead ordered to wait at anchor.
The Harbour Authority is carrying out an investigation to clarify the causes of the accident. Further safety checks have also been ordered before the vessels will be allowed to leave Algeciras.
Translation by Giles Foster