The wrecked hull of the containership Solong has reached Scotland, nearly three weeks after its collision with the tanker Stena Immaculate. The vessel was towed into Aberdeen early this morning, marking a transition from emergency response to commercial salvage operations.
Arrival and Docking in Aberdeen
At around 7:15 a.m. local time, a tugboat guided the damaged Solong into Aberdeen’s South Harbor. Two additional tugs flanked the wreck, while a pollution control vessel trailed behind, ensuring environmental safety measures were in place. Port officials confirmed that the ship has been moored near a laid-up oil rig, with no expected disruptions to regular operations.
A spokesperson for Solong’s owner, Germany-based Ernst Russ AG, stated that the vessel would undergo thorough assessment by marine specialists and insurers. The full extent of the damage is yet to be determined, but early reports suggest extensive structural compromise due to the fire that broke out after the collision.
The Stena Immaculate’s Condition and Cargo Transfer Plans
Meanwhile, salvage efforts on the Stena Immaculate remain underway. The tanker has stayed at its anchorage while inspections continue. The UK’s HM Coastguard indicated that preparations for offloading its cargo could start as early as this weekend.
A previous survey confirmed that only one of the tanker’s cargo tanks was damaged, preventing a more catastrophic fuel spill. The vessel was carrying 220,000 barrels of jet fuel at the time of impact, with approximately 17,515 barrels lost due to the collision and resulting fire. Ship operator Crowley highlighted that swift activation of fire suppression systems helped contain the damage and protect the remaining cargo.
Environmental Cleanup Efforts Intensify
The aftermath of the accident has extended beyond the immediate wreckage. The release of plastic pellets—known as nurdles—during the fire has led to contamination along the coastline. Local authorities, assisted by the Coastguard, have been coordinating cleanup operations after reports of nurdles washing ashore surfaced last week.
• Authorities are using specialized vacuum systems and manual collection efforts to minimize environmental impact. • Volunteers have been enlisted to assist with cleaning beaches and shorelines affected by the plastic spill. • The Coastguard has emphasized the difficulty of removing microplastics, warning that full cleanup efforts may take months.
Legal and Insurance Assessments Begin
With both vessels stabilized, attention is now shifting to legal and financial responsibilities. Maritime insurers are expected to examine liability for damages, including salvage costs, environmental cleanup expenses, and compensation claims related to cargo losses.
Marine assessors will also determine whether the Solong is salvageable or if it will be declared a total loss. The vessel’s future depends on the severity of structural damage and potential economic feasibility of repairs.
The incident remains under investigation by maritime authorities, with key questions still unanswered about how the containership and tanker ended up on a collision course. Both ship operators have pledged full cooperation with inquiries as the industry watches closely for potential regulatory implications.
