The Blue Ocean A, a livestock carrier with 33 crewmembers on board, was in danger of sinking last night after a failure. Strong winds subsequently pushed the cargo ship towards the south-western coast of San Pietro Island, where it risked hitting the rocks.
According to initial reports, Carloforte Coastguard was the first to arrive on the scene. It coordinated the vessel towage operations with the support of the Cagliari Coastguard and a harbour tugboat stationed at Portovesme, suitable for small tonnage vessels.
After an initial attempt to tow the vessel failed due to strong winds and four tow ropes breaking, another tugboat, Moby’s Vincenzino O, arrived on the scene during the night. It successfully hooked up and secured the ship.
The Livestock carrier was then towed to the port of Sant’Antioco.
Translation by Giles Foster
