UK is Latest to Track Movement of Cargo Ship Laden with Ammonium Nitrate
Cargo Ship Ruby Sparks Global Attention Amid Safety Concerns Over Hazardous Cargo
The cargo ship Ruby, registered in Malta, is making headlines around the world. UK maritime authorities have recently started closely monitoring the ship’s movements. The Ruby is carrying a large load of 20,000 tons of ammonium nitrate, which was initially intended to be used as fertilizer in the Canary Islands. However, due to the hazardous nature of the cargo, the ship has become the focus of international attention. The vessel was also damaged during a storm in the Arctic, raising further concerns.
The Ruby has faced many challenges on its journey. Several ports, including those in Norway, Lithuania, and Sweden, refused to allow the ship to dock due to the danger its cargo could pose. Danish authorities have also placed restrictions on its movements. In response, the ship changed course and declared its next destination to be Malta. Managed by a company from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the Ruby is registered in Malta, which means Maltese authorities have become involved in finding a safe port for the ship.
Currently, the Ruby is anchored at the northeastern end of the English Channel, between the Netherlands and the UK, near the coast of Kent, England. This has caused a media frenzy, with many speculating about the ship’s next move. Despite this, authorities from Norway, Sweden, and other countries have assured the public that the cargo is safely loaded, and there is minimal risk of an explosion.
The ship is anchored about 14 miles off the coast of Kent. The UK’s HM Coastguard has had to address the growing media concerns. In a statement, they confirmed that they are aware of the ship’s presence and are keeping a close watch. The Ruby is currently anchored outside the UK’s territorial waters and, according to the Coastguard, there is regular communication with the ship.
A spokesperson clarified that the Ruby is “waiting for appropriate conditions to refuel at sea before passing through the English Channel.” They also confirmed that the ship is not restricted and does not need special permission to continue its journey. However, due to the ship’s damaged hull, propeller, and rudder, both the flag state of Malta and DNV, the ship’s classification society, have decided that it should be accompanied by a tugboat as a safety measure. The Ruby’s escort, another Maltese-registered ship called Amber II, has docked in the Netherlands, likely to resupply or give the crew some rest while the Ruby remains anchored.
What happens next is still uncertain. The Maltese authorities have stated that they will not allow the ship into port unless it first unloads its dangerous cargo. Lithuania made a similar demand when the ship was expected to arrive at its Western Shipyard for repairs.
There are now reports that the ship’s managers are considering transferring the cargo to smaller vessels for storage. However, no final decisions have been made.
