Cargo Ship RASHA Collides with UST ILIMSK Off Istanbul

The general cargo ship RASHA, sailing from Lebanon to Romania, collided with the vessel UST ILIMSK in the Ahırkapı Anchorage Area on 13 Nov 2026 after reportedly dragging its anchor. According to initial reports, RASHA began drifting when its anchor failed to hold, and contact with UST ILIMSK occurred during an attempt to re-anchor. Both vessels sustained damage in the incident, though the extent has not been disclosed. Further movement of the two ships will be determined according to instructions from the Istanbul Regional Port Authority, which is overseeing the response. The collision came a day after the Port Authority had issued a warning about strong westerly winds affecting anchorage areas in the Bosphorus, the Sea of Marmara, and Ahırkapı. The İMEAK Chamber of Shipping had circulated precautionary measures, including continuous monitoring for anchor dragging and drifting, timely maneuvering, and communication with traffic control centers. The exact cause of RASHA's anchor failure has not been confirmed, and officials have not established a direct link between the earlier wind warning and the collision. An investigation into the incident is ongoing, and further details on the cause and damage assessment are expected as authorities complete their review.