One of Spirit of Tasmania’s two new ferries broke free from its moorings and struck a dock amid “hurricane-force winds” at Rauma Marine Constructions/RMC's shipyard in Rauma Finland, where the vessel is currently under construction.
The incident occurred on Saturday, November 2nd (Tasmanian time), with TT-Line Acting CEO Kym Sayers reporting that a full assessment of the damage is not yet possible.
Sayers stated that Spirit of Tasmania V ship is afloat, safe, and secured, with all necessary precautions in place to protect the vessel, adding that there appears to be no hull breach.
Three tugboats are assisting the ferry, which will be moved to a layup berth at RMC as soon as conditions permit.
RMC confirmed in a translated statement that there were no injuries, leaks, or environmental impacts resulting from the incident.
"The situation was prepared the day before with additional ropes, an emergency team and a tug was called to the scene.
"Work on the ship was stopped at 18:00 [Friday, Finland time]. However, the storm became the first known hurricane in the area and the ship could not be kept at the pier, but instead drifted against the embankment on the side of the lake.
"Rescue personnel went to check the situation in the evening. The situation has stabilised and measures to move the ship are being planned."