Salvage Plan Prepared as Greece Warns of Oil Leak from Sounion

A salvage team is being urgently assembled to address the escalating crisis in the Red Sea, where the Greek tanker Sounion is burning and at risk of causing a significant environmental disaster. Greece has issued an urgent notice to the International Maritime Organization, warning of a potential oil spill after satellite images from the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) detected a possible 2.2 nautical mile-long spill in the vicinity of the ship on August 29, 2024.

The tanker, loaded with 150,000 tons of crude oil, is reportedly suffering from fires that are spreading to additional tanks, raising concerns of further damage and oil leakage. Preliminary assessments suggest that initial leaks may be originating from the bunkers and the damaged engine room, as evidenced by videos released by the Houthis showing hull breaches above the waterline. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for the attacks on the vessel, which have complicated the salvage efforts.

Houthis Allow Salvage Crew & Ships To Access Oil Tanker They Set on Fire in The Red Sea

Dutch salvage company Boskalis, through its SMIT salvage group, has been requested to assist with the Sounion, despite the dangers posed by ongoing hostilities in the region. The company has prior experience in the area, having successfully conducted a similar operation aboard the FSO Safer. However, the current situation is more perilous due to the risk of additional explosives on the Sounion.

Greek authorities are appealing to the international community for immediate assistance to prevent a catastrophic oil spill. While efforts are being coordinated with Saudi Arabia to oversee the transfer of oil and potentially move the tanker to Djibouti, the situation remains precarious, with the Houthis continuing to pose a threat in the region.