Fugro has reported that the Fugro Mercator has successfully been towed to a shipyard for inspection. The geophysical survey vessel ran aground on the north coast of Elba, Italy, on 22 March.
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.
With no injuries to people and no harm to the environment, Fugro states it is thankful that the impact of the incident has remained limited. The vessel will now be fully inspected at the shipyard. The company will also conduct a full review of the event to learn what caused the ship to run aground.
‘We are very grateful to the Italian coastguard and our partners for their swift and effective response in evacuating our crew and salvaging the Fugro Mercator,’ says Erik-Jan Bijvank, Group Director Europe & Africa. ‘The safety of our crew and the protection of the environment are our top priorities, and we are relieved that both were upheld during this challenging event.’
Also read: VIDEO: Fugro survey vessel runs aground in Italy
Other vessel sent to take over work
The Fugro Mercator was performing survey work for the Italian Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA) as part of the Italian government’s Marine Ecosystem Restoration (MER) Project. Fugro is working with the client to ensure that the work is continued as quickly as possible.
The Fugro Helmert will sail to the Mediterranean shortly to pick up the Mercator’s project commitments, minimising the overall impact of the incident.
The 42.35-metre Fugro Mercator was built in 2003 by Damen Shipyards and sails under the flag of the Bahamas.
Picture: The Fugro Helmert (photo by Fugro).
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