Salvage Efforts Continue for Grounded Containership in Norway
Salvage teams in Trondheimsfjorden, Norway, are working tirelessly to free the feeder containership NCL Salten after it grounded just feet from a private residence. The vessel made headlines worldwide when it ran aground on May 22, prompting a complex salvage operation.
Prior to attempting to refloat the vessel, salvage teams decided to conduct a lightering effort to reduce its weight. This comes as investigations into the grounding continue, with the navigation officer facing charges of negligence after reportedly falling asleep near the end of his overnight watch.
Despite initial attempts to pull the ship free with tugs, the vessel remained stuck due to the soft clay composition of the area and damage to the hull and ballast tanks. This led to the decision to remove containers from the NCL Salten using onboard cranes and transferring them to barges bound for Orkanger.
With sufficient weight removed from the vessel, the next refloating attempt is scheduled for Tuesday, with two tugs on standby to assist in pulling the ship off the shoreline. The salvage operation has been complicated by ongoing landslides in the area, adding further challenges to the already complex situation.
Meanwhile, the second officer, a Ukrainian national, has been charged with negligent navigation for reportedly falling asleep during his watch. Investigations are ongoing, focusing on manning levels, work rules, and rest periods onboard the vessel. The captain, although not on the bridge at the time of the grounding, is also under investigation.
According to reports, the vessel deviated from its planned course while entering the fjord, missing a crucial turn towards Orkanger harbor. This oversight led to the NCL Salten continuing forward at high speed before coming to a “soft landing” on a residential lawn.
The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols and adherence to navigation procedures onboard commercial vessels. Authorities are closely monitoring the salvage operation and the ongoing investigation to prevent similar incidents in the future.