Video: Dutch Heavy Lift Ship Abandoned by the Crew, Norwegian Coast Guard in Action

The general cargo vessel, EEMSLIFT HENDRIKA, developed a heavy list as a consequence of a shift of deck cargo whilst navigating the Norwegian Sea in challenging weather conditions, approximately 60 nautical miles west of Alesund, Norway on 5 April 2021.

The vessel is reported to have been listing by up to 50 degrees to starboard and to have taken on water. The Master issued a distress signal as a consequence of the list and eight crew members were later evacuated from the vessel. The remaining four crew members remained on board to attempt to salvage the vessel.

Norwegian Coastguard vessels were deployed to assist the vessel and pumps were delivered by helicopter to assist the salvage operation but despite the best efforts of the remaining crew on board, the vessel was later abandoned amid of fears of the vessel capsizing.

It is now reported that shipowners have contracted with professional salvors under Lloyd’s Open Form terms to attempt to salvage the vessel and two tugs have been dispatched to the vessel with the objective of taking the vessel under tow to a place of safety.

 It is also reported that at least one service vessel and heavy lift equipment carried on board EEMSLIFT HENDRIKA as deck cargo have been lost overboard from the vessel. The service vessel is reported to have been located adrift some distance from the vessel and may later be retrieved by salvors or other parties.