Ship Collision in Rijeka: Former State Yacht Damaged
The ‘Deniz Akay’, a cargo ship, lost power while leaving the De Franceschievo pier in Rijeka on February 13, 2026. At around 8:30 p.m., the vessel collided with the ‘Galeb’, a historic yacht formerly owned by Yugoslavian President Josip Broz Tito. Currently, the ‘Galeb’ is being transformed into a museum ship. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and no environmental damage occurred as a result of the accident.
Emergency services were notified immediately following the incident. Representatives from the Rijeka Port Authority arrived swiftly to conduct initial investigations. Alcohol tests administered to the crew of the ‘Deniz Akay’ returned negative results, indicating that alcohol was not a factor in the mishap. A technical inspection revealed only minor damage to both vessels, primarily affecting the port side of the ‘Deniz Akay’ and the bow section of the ‘Galeb’.
Administrative Measures and Next Steps
In light of the incident, the Rijeka Port Authority issued an administrative order prohibiting the ‘Deniz Akay’ from sailing until a thorough inspection and other necessary evidentiary actions were completed. This measure ensures that safety protocols are adhered to following the allision. The ship was eventually cleared and departed from Rijeka on February 17, heading towards Altinova. It successfully arrived at its destination on February 21.
The collision highlights the importance of maritime safety and navigation protocols, especially in busy ports. The swift response from emergency services and the port authority helped mitigate potential risks following the incident. Such measures are crucial to ensuring the safety of crew members and the preservation of historic vessels like the ‘Galeb’, which serves as a reminder of the region’s maritime history.
