VTA NEPTUNE cargo ship runs aground off Hue coast

The Vietnamese bulk carrier VTA NEPTUNE ran aground near the Chan May maritime area in Thua Thien Hue province on the evening of November 9. The vessel, owned by VTA Import Export Co., Ltd., was drifting in heavy winds and waves before grounding approximately 2.75 nautical miles southwest of Buoy No. 0.

The ship has a deadweight tonnage of 23,620 DWT and is carrying approximately 51.82 tons of DO oil and 211.81 tons of FO oil. While the vessel is currently without cargo, all 20 crew members are reported safe. The ship is currently listing to the left by 2 degrees.

Authorities, including the Thua Thien Hue Maritime Administration and local border guard forces, are monitoring the situation to prevent environmental pollution. Due to strong northeast winds reaching levels 6 to 7 with gusts up to levels 8 to 9, officials stated that approaching the vessel to implement salvage plans has not yet been safe.