Maltese-Flagged Car Carrier Collides With Pier In Germany’s Bremerhaven Port

A 200-meter-long car carrier collided with a pier in Bremerhaven in the early hours of April 21 after strong winds made navigation difficult in a narrow section of the port.

The incident took place at around 4:20 a.m. near the former swing bridge in the connecting port area. At the time, gusty conditions were affecting movement in the busy harbor.

Because of this, the 56-year-old captain had requested an additional harbor tug to help guide the Maltese-flagged vessel safely through the restricted passage.

Despite the extra precaution, the ship’s starboard side struck the edge of the pier.

The impact ripped open the hull over a length of about six meters, roughly 2.5 meters above the waterline.

Authorities said no crew members were injured in the incident and no fuel or other operating fluids leaked into the water.

Following the collision, administrative proceedings were launched against the captain as authorities began examining the circumstances surrounding the contact.

Port officials also issued a sailing ban on the car carrier, preventing it from departing until repairs are completed and the vessel’s seaworthiness is reassessed.

Bremerhaven is one of Europe’s major automotive and cargo hubs, and ship movements through its confined port sections often require tug support, particularly during adverse weather.

Reference: Polizei Bremen