Vietnamese maritime authorities are racing to secure the Liberian-flagged bulk carrier Star Bueno as Typhoon Kalmaegi makes landfall today. The vessel, which ran aground off Quang Ngai province on October 26 after dragging anchor in rough seas, has since been refloated and moved to a safe anchorage – but remains vulnerable as the powerful storm hits the region.
The 178,978 dwt bulker, operated by Greece’s Star Bulk, was carrying nearly 175,000 tons of iron ore from Saldanha Bay, South Africa, to Dung Quat Port when strong monsoon winds and heavy waves forced it ashore.
The vessel has 22 crew members from the Philippines and Ukraine on board, all of whom were reported safe.
Three of the vessel’s cargo holds sustained damage, resulting in water ingress. Despite force 6 winds and three-meter waves, the crew managed to pump out the water and refloat Star Bueno by October 29. The bulker was then moved to a more secure anchorage.
Vietnamese authorities have been working with the ship’s owner, Star Bulk of Greece, to develop a comprehensive plan to keep the vessel safe as severe weather moves in. Typhoon Kalmaegi is expected to strike the central coast today with winds of up to force 17, bringing heavy rain, flooding, and dangerous surf.
Emergency teams and rescue units remain on site to monitor the Star Bueno’s condition and ensure the safety of the crew, cargo, and nearby coastline as the typhoon makes landfall.
