Bid to refloat bulk carrier which ran aground this morning off Cornwall

There will be an attempt later today (18 December) to refloat the Russian vessel which ran aground earlier this morning off Cornwall.

HM Coastguard is currently coordinating assistance to the Kuzma Minin, a Russian flagged 180 metre bulk carrier, which dragged and grounded on the western side of the port entrance between Swanpool and Gyllyngvase beaches at around 0540 today. The vessel has 18 Russian crew on board but there are no reported injuries. There is no cargo on board. She currently has a list of five degrees but there is no report of any pollution.

HM Coastguard and Devon & Cornwall Police have declared a major incident due to the large number of people that use the beach and the disruption to traffic in the town. The Secretary of State’s Representative (SOSRep) Maritime Salvage & Intervention is closely monitoring the situation and the local Environment Group is also being kept informed.

Tugs are on their way to the vessel and Falmouth RNLI all-weather lifeboat is standing by at the scene. Falmouth Coastguard Rescue Team have cordoned off an area around the ship.

HM Coastguard Search and Rescue helicopter based at Newquay was used to transfer a marine pilot on to the vessel.


The attempt to refloat the vessel will take place during high tide later today using harbour tugs.



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