Sailing Ship Collision off Harlingen Coast Injures Five Students
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A collision between a sailing charter vessel and a cargo ship near Harlingen, Netherlands, resulted in minor injuries to five high school students on Thursday evening, July 18, 2024. The incident prompted a swift response from the KNRM (Royal netherlands Sea Rescue institution), who secured the scene and provided medical attention to those affected.
The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 pm local time near the Pollendam, a roughly 3-kilometer-long electricity dam northwest of Harlingen. According to a coast guard spokesperson, 25 students were aboard the sailing ship, along with adults and even a dog. “A few are shocked and some have a bump on their heads,” the spokesperson stated, indicating the injuries were relatively minor.
Rescue Operation and ship Assessment
The KNRM dispatched two boats to the scene and transported the injured students to the KNRM boathouse in Harlingen, where they were evaluated by ambulance personnel.The Storebaelt, a conventional sailing ship built in 1928, sustained damage to its bowsprit during the collision. However, authorities confirmed that neither vessel took on water, preventing a more serious maritime incident.
The collision involved the Storebaelt and an unidentified cargo vessel. The five injured students suffered minor trauma, primarily shock and contusions, and received on-site medical attention before being transported for further evaluation. The KNRM ensured all passengers were accounted for, including the canine companion, and deemed the scene safe.
Examination Underway, Vessel Secured
the cause of the collision remains under investigation.Rederij Noordgat, a local shipping company, assisted in towing the damaged sailing ship to the port of Harlingen. The company also facilitated the disembarkation of the students who were not injured.
The Storebaelt is commonly used for chartered trips on the IJsselmeer and the wadden Sea, offering unique sailing experiences. The incident raises questions about navigational safety in the area, especially during evening hours. Authorities are expected to release further details as the investigation progresses.
As of Friday morning, the Storebaelt was secured in the port of Harlingen awaiting assessment of the damage to its bowsprit. The cargo vessel involved was permitted to continue its voyage after a preliminary inspection. The investigation will focus on determining weather factors such as visibility, speed, or adherence to maritime traffic regulations contributed to the incident. All 25 students and crew were safely accounted for, and the incident concluded with no life-threatening injuries.
