Salvage Teams Lift Sunken Vessel SOLA GRATIA From River Scheldt After Collision With Mooring Posts
Our take
The recent recovery of the sunken vessel *Sola Gratia* from the River Scheldt following its collision with mooring posts serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and dangers inherent in maritime operations. This incident, which saw the vessel sink in mid-April and required emergency divers to rescue two individuals from the water, highlights not only the immediate risks faced by crew members but also raises broader questions about maritime safety and environmental stewardship. Similar events have unfolded in the region, including instances like the sinking of a cargo ship that resulted in an oil spill into the Scheldt River, as detailed in our coverage of Watch: Cargo Ship Hits Bollard, Sinks In Antwerp & Spills Oil Into Scheldt.
The salvage operation for *Sola Gratia* is a testament to the resilience and expertise of maritime salvage teams, who often work under challenging conditions to mitigate further risks to both human life and the marine environment. The ability to respond effectively to such incidents is crucial, particularly in busy waterways where shipping traffic is dense, and navigational hazards are prevalent. This incident prompts a necessary discussion about the safety protocols and technological innovations needed to prevent such accidents from occurring in the future. As we face escalating climate challenges, the preservation of our waterways becomes increasingly urgent, and the maritime industry must remain vigilant in adopting best practices for operational safety.
Moreover, the implications of such incidents extend beyond immediate rescue efforts. The environmental impact of sunken vessels can be significant, especially if cargo spills into the water or if the vessel is not properly salvaged. The potential for chemical or oil contamination poses risks to local ecosystems, which can have long-lasting consequences for marine life and coastal communities. The incident involving *Sola Gratia* is not isolated; it reflects a pattern that demands our attention. It is vital for stakeholders, including policymakers and industry leaders, to prioritize investments in advanced technologies that enhance navigational safety and environmental protection.
As we reflect on the recovery of the *Sola Gratia*, it is essential to consider the role of community awareness and education in fostering a culture of safety within the maritime sector. The public’s understanding of maritime operations, including the risks and responsibilities associated with them, can lead to greater support for initiatives aimed at enhancing safety measures. The need for collaborative efforts between governments, industry, and scientific communities is paramount in shaping a resilient future for our oceans.
In conclusion, the recovery of the *Sola Gratia* serves as a critical juncture for the maritime industry, urging us to address the broader implications of such incidents. As stakeholders in ocean stewardship, we must ask ourselves: What steps can we take to ensure that maritime safety and environmental integrity are prioritized in our ongoing efforts to navigate the challenges posed by climate change? The answers to these questions will shape the future of our waters and the communities that depend on them.
Herbosch-Kiere N.V. and Multraship Salvage B.V. have lifted the inland vessel SOLA GRATIA from the River Scheldt on Sunday, 3 May, after it sank in mid-April near Antwerp.
The lifting started at around 13:00 and continued for several hours. The vessel was lying at a depth of about 15 metres at low tide.
Strong currents and changing water levels in the Scheldt meant the teams had a limited time window to complete the operation.
The 86-metre vessel sank during the night of 17 to 18 April after hitting mooring posts near the Royers Lock in Antwerp.
It was carrying around 1,600 tonnes of sand at the time. The crew was rescued safely after the accident.
Multraship and Herbosch-Kiere were jointly hired to carry out the salvage work.
The operation involved two floating sheerlegs, crane barges, tugboats, support equipment, and specialised divers.
Work was carried out carefully, with focus on safety and the environment.
Before the lifting, teams spent several days preparing the vessel. On Monday and Tuesday, the sand cargo was removed to make the vessel more stable.
After that, divers installed heavy lifting slings and steel wires around the hull.
These were placed at three points so the weight could be spread evenly and reduce the chance of the vessel breaking during the lift.
Leendert Muller, CEO of Multraship Salvage, said the job required a large and experienced team.
He explained that installing the slings is precise and risky work, and the lifting also needs to be done in a controlled way to keep the vessel balanced.
The actual lifting was carried out slowly using cranes and sheerlegs, with tugboats assisting.
The timing was planned around low tide to make the operation possible within the available window.
Benny De Sutter, CEO of Herbosch-Kiere, said the work was done in close cooperation between both companies and their partners, with attention to safety and environmental protection at every step.
After the vessel was lifted, teams started trying to remove the water inside it so it can float again.
Early checks show that the hull has serious damage, which may make this process take longer. For now, the vessel will remain supported in the lifting slings.
The final destination of the vessel has not yet been decided.
Earlier, authorities had approved the removal of the sand cargo, and divers had already fixed lifting straps around the vessel.
The operation was carried out even though the weather conditions were not ideal. Tugboats also helped during the recovery.
The vessel had sunk after the collision in mid-April, and emergency service divers had rescued two people from the water at that time.
Reference: herbosch-kiere
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