On 22 March, Fugro received report that its geophysical survey vessel Fugro Mercator had run aground on the north coast of Elba, Italy. Cause of the grounding is as yet unknown.
The authorities were immediately notified, and the Italian Coastguard arrived on site swiftly to provide support and monitor the situation. All crew, eleven people in total, were evacuated by the CP 805 patrol boat of the Italian Coastguard and taken ashore safely. The Italian Coastguard released the video below.
La nave oceanografica FUGRO MERCATOR si è incagliata nella notte all'isola d'Elba. Equipaggio e personale scientifico (11 persone) sono stati tratti in salvo dalla #GuardiaCostiera di #Portoferraio. ✅ Nessun inquinamento in mare.⚓ Recupero in fase di pianificazione. pic.twitter.com/c4xCMYfnyG
— Guardia Costiera (@guardiacostiera) March 23, 2025
So far, no pollution has been detected, according to the Italian Coastguard. A salvage operation is being prepared together with international experts and local officials.
Also read: Fugro to supply metocean monitoring buoys to Italy
Deteriorating weather
It is not yet clear what led to the Fugro Mercator running aground. The 42-metre research vessel was performing survey work off the coast of Elba, when it went looking for shelter due to deteriorating weather conditions. In accordance with the company’s standard procedures, Fugro will conduct a full review of the event.
The 42.35-metre Fugro Mercator was built in 2003 by Damen Shipyards and sails under the flag of the Bahamas.
Picture by Fugro.
Also read: Fugro pioneers uncrewed subsea inspections in Brazil
