Trawler Heavily Damaged After Collision With Containership in North Sea

A collision between fishing trawler Stella Polaris UK-22 and German-flagged containership Singapore Express occurred in the North Sea off the Dutch coast, leaving the trawler heavily damaged. The impact completely crushed the wheelhouse of Stella Polaris UK-22 and severely damaged a large section of its superstructure. Despite the heavy damage, the 30-metre fishing vessel remained afloat and was initially escorted by fellow fishing vessel UK-24 while the containership continued its voyage. Near Richel, salvage vessel BDS later took Stella Polaris UK-22 under tow and transported it to Harlingen, where authorities will assess the extent of the damage and determine repair requirements. One injury among the crewmember of Stella Polaris were reported following the collision. The Maritime Police have launched an investigation into the incident.