Dredger strikes dam in Netherlands

A dredger suffered a heavily damaged starboard side and a crushed bow after it struck a barrier of the Neeltje Jans artificial island in the province of Zeeland on Monday, November 5.

Strong currents pushed the 56-metre Eemshorn against the Oostershcelde dam while it was on its way to the Roompot lock at around 05:00 local time.

The KNRM sea rescue organisation evacuated three of Eemshorn’s crew. The master had opted to remain onboard.

The onset of high tide at around 07:15 allowed Eemshorn to manoeuvre under its own power and proceed to the inner port of Neeltje Jans, all the while under guidance by tugs. The dredger berthed safely at 07:40.

The incident is currently under investigation by the local police and the Rijkswaterstaat public works and water management directorate.