Bulk Carrier "CASSIOPEIA STAR" 2014

On the 6th of January 2014, bulk carrier "CASSEIOPIA STAR" (GRT 20,200, DWT 32,300) laden with 27,500MT of barite ore, immobilized due to main engine problem about 1600 nautical miles West of Canary Islands. AHT "FAIRMOUNT GLACIER" (16,300BHP/200TBP) was mobilised from Las Palmas to the assistance of the casualty.

On the 13th January, the tug arrived at casualty's position and towing connection was established following which towage commenced towards Las Palmas.

During the towage, the convoy encountered bad weather with gale force winds and heavy seas, which affected the towage speed and made conditions onboard both vessels extremely uncomfortable.

On the 30th January convoy arrived off Las Palmas, but due to bad weather, convoy drifted at open sea awaiting an improvement in conditions to deliver the tow to port tugs. The following day weather conditions eased and convoy proceeded to Las Palmas pilot station whereby the casualty was berthed and safely delivered to her owners.  The 2000 mile towage had been successfully accomplished.