TSAVLIRIS SALVAGE GROUP - News & Announcements
M/V “A. MICHEL” - 2019 Jun 24
On 12 May 2019, the Bunkering Tanker "A. MICHEL" (GRT 4,346 – DWT 6,711), laden with 1,660 tonnes IFO 380 and 950 tonnes MGO, whilst anchored at Fujairah B anchorage, UAE, suffered an underwater explosion (reported as sabotage) by way of the engine room, causing an external gaping hole on her starboard side which resulted in the vessel's listing due to flooding and a total black out.
Another three tankers were affected by similar explosions, namely the Crude Oil Tanker "AMJAD", the Crude Oil Tanker "AL MARZOQAH" and the Product Tanker "MIRAJ", according to officials in the UAE.
Tsavliris Salvage was engaged to provide salvage assistance to the "A. MICHEL". On 14 May a salvage team was mobilised from Greece and boarded the casualty on 15 May. Messrs. Fairdeal Group Management & Atlantis Marine Services were appointed as salvors' subcontractors and the tugs "ATLANTIS 1" and "FAIR BEE" were engaged to assist the casualty.
Underwater inspections were carried out, along with skimming of the engine room. Electricity was provided with portable generators and the FiFi system was activated. Calculation studies for cargo discharging and for temporary repairs were prepared and submitted by Tsavliris to all parties concerned.
On 25 May 2019, the salvage operation was successfully completed.