COLLISION IN DOVER STRAIT



Two ships on passage in the Dover Strait collided in poor visibility this morning.

The ‘Gas Arctic,’ LPG tanker currently in ballast, registered in Malta was on passage from Tees to Portland, with 14 crew aboard. The ‘Spring Bok’, cargo ship, registered in the Netherlands was on passage from Amsterdam to Oranjestad, Aruba, with 22 crew aboard. The vessels collided this morning when visibility was less than half a mile.

Dover Coastguard requested the launch of the Dungeness all weather lifeboat and requested the assistance of HMS Tyne which was transiting the Strait.

Phil Davies, Watch Officer, Dover Coastguard, says:

“The vessels have both incurred damage above the water line but are fully capable of making their way to Portland where they will be inspected.”


Notes to Editors:

  • Stay safe - before heading out on the water get trained, check weather and tides, wear a lifejacket, avoid alcohol and keep in touch
                                                                                                                     
  • Follow us on Twitter. We can be found at  MCA_media

  • The MCA is a partner in the Sea Vision UK campaign to raise awareness and understanding of the sea and maritime activities  http://www.seavisionuk.org/

                                                                          

For further details contact:
The Maritime & Coastguard Agency Duty Press Officer
Office hours: 023 8032 9401Mobile: 07764 624 505
Press releases and further information about the Agency is available on the Web at www.mcga.gov.uk

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