Fugro received a report on the weekend that the geophysical survey vessel Fugro Mercator had run aground on the north coast of Elba, Italy.
The authorities were immediately notified, and the Italian Coast Guard arrived on site swiftly to provide support and monitor the situation.
All crew, 11 people in total, were evacuated and taken ashore safely. Fugro said a salvage operation is being prepared together with international experts and local officials.
"It is not yet clear what led to the Fugro Mercator running aground," noted Fugro. "The 42-metre research vessel was performing survey work off the coast of Elba, when it went looking for shelter due to deteriorating weather conditions.
"In accordance with our standard procedures, Fugro will conduct a full review of the event."
The Fugro Mercator conducts bathymetric and geophysical surveys, as well as cable and pipeline route assessments for Fugro.
Measuring 42 metres in length and 10 metres in beam, she has a deadweight of 67 tonnes and was built in the Netherlands in 2003.