The cargo ship MSC Baltic III encountered a significant setback on Saturday morning when it lost power and ran aground on the western coast of Newfoundland. The incident unfolded approximately 12 nautical miles outside the entrance to Bay of Islands, near Lark Harbour, N.L. Despite the challenging weather and sea conditions, all 20 people on board were safely airlifted from the vessel.
The MSC Baltic III reported its loss of power to the Marine Communications and Traffic Services in Port aux Basques, N.L. This triggered an immediate response from the Canadian Coast Guard. The crew's inability to secure an anchor resulted in the ship running aground. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the crew members.
A Cormorant helicopter played a vital role in the rescue operation, swiftly airlifting all individuals from the stricken vessel. The airlift was conducted under adverse weather conditions, adding complexity to the rescue efforts. The Canadian Coast Guard coordinated closely with the Cormorant helicopter crew to ensure the safety of those on board.
The Canadian Press reported the incident on February 16, 2025, highlighting the swift response and coordination between various maritime authorities. The situation could have escalated given the "unfavourable" weather and sea conditions at the time.
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by maritime operations in navigating harsh weather conditions and mechanical failures. The seamless coordination between the Canadian Coast Guard and the helicopter crew ensured a successful evacuation without any harm to the crew members involved.
