Tanker and containership involved in accident off the UK coast, sparking major safety and environmental fears

A major accident has occurred in the North Sea off the East Yorkshire coast today when the oil/product tanker ‘Stena Immaculate’ was hit by the container ship ‘SOLONG’, reported to be a 20-year-old vessel sailing under the Madeira flag. Fires broke out aboard both vessels and all crew members were evacuated amid fears that a major environmental disaster might be unfolding. 

“At approximately 1000 hrs UTC today oil/product tanker Stena Immaculate (IMO 9693018) was involved in an allision with the container ship SOLONG (IMO 9322554) while anchored off Hull in the North Sea,” read a statement from shipowner Stena Bulk issued by its President & CEO Erik Hånell. 

“As a result of the incident, a cargo tank on the tanker carrying Jet A-1 fuel was breached, and a fire broke out. The crew of the Stena Immaculate abandoned the vessel and are all safe and accounted for. 

“Stena Immaculate is operated and managed by the US-based logistics, marine and energy solutions company Crowley, serving government and commercial contracts,“ Hånell added. “Crowley immediately initiated its emergency vessel response plan and is actively working with partners and the authorities to contain the fire and secure the vessel. A significant support operation is present in the vicinity and is being coordinated by HM Humber Coastguard.”

A Crowley statement confirmed that while anchored off the North Sea coast near Hull, the Crowley-managed tanker had been struck by the container ship and “sustained a ruptured cargo tank containing Jet-A1 fuel due to the allision. A fire broke out as a result, and fuel was released. The crew abandoned the vessel following multiple explosions onboard. All Crowley mariners are safe and accounted for.”

Responding to the incident, Stuart Rivers, CEO of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB), umbrella charity for the UK merchant navy and shipping fleets, said: “We are devastated to hear of the collision between an oil tanker ship and cargo ship that took place earlier today.My heart goes out to all of the seafarers affected. Our brave seafarers risk their lives every day to keep global trade moving, and in moments like this, we are reminded of the dangers they face at sea. As reports continue to unfold, we are praying that all crew involved are unharmed.”