Further to our notice of 4th February 2016, advising that the vessel CSCL INDIAN OCEAN had run aground in the River Elbe near Grunendeich, it is now reported that the vessel has been refloated and is currently in the Waltershofer Hafen at Hamburg.

The salvage operation was effected at 2am today by a fleet of 12 tugs of the Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (CCME), which shortly after managed to tow the ship’s stern off the bank. The 12 tugboats have a total bollard pull of 1085 tons on scene, which was sufficient to pull free the 2015-built vessel, one of the world’s largest containerships.

The on-scene-coordinator of CCME and the salvage experts of the shipping company remained on the bridge of CSCL INDIAN OCEAN during the towing-attempt.

Once the vessel was freed the tugs started to reposition the ship for towing to Hamburg Port. The vessel’s operation systems have been tested and are reported to be running satisfactorily, with the rudder fully operative.

The salvage teams launched the towing operation having lightened the ship by about 6,506 MT, consisting mainly of fuel and ballast water.

Salvage efforts were conducted by Smit Salvage of Rotterdam, reportedly under commercial contract, and it is expected that General Average will be declared.

If you become aware aware of any involvement in this casualty and W E Cox Claims Group may be of assistance in any way, we would be pleased to hear from you.