A Portuguese-flagged chemical tanker Elsa Essberger collided on New Year’s Eve with an offshore oil platform in the Dutch North Sea, the Dutch Coast Guard informed.
The 2013-built tanker was on its way from Antwerp, Belgium to Malmö when it hit the unmanned and out-of-service Q1 platform, southwest of Texel, north of Den Helder on December 31.
A coast guard vessel the Guardian was in the immediate vicinity and was rushed to the scene to provide assistance.
Based on coast guard photos taken immediately after the incident, the ship’s bow suffered extensive damage as did the platform legs.
However, it has been reported that the ship’s crew was safe and did not sustain injuries in the collision.
An inspection has determined that there was no danger to the ship or its cargo, the coast guard said.
The cause of the collision is yet to be determined.
The 5,200 dwt chemical tanker, listed as part of John T. Essberger’s fleet, is currently moored in Rotterdam area, based on its latest AIS data.
World Maritime News Staff; Images: Kustwacht