Engine Failure Halts Tanker Transit in Kiel Canal
On February 15, 2026, at 8 a.m., the sanctioned tanker “PVT Azura” experienced an engine failure while navigating the Kiel Canal, causing it to stop near Schwartenbek, Kiel. The pilot promptly reported the issue to the traffic control center in Brunsbüttel. In response, it was determined that the vessel would require assistance from tugs “Stein” and “Parat” to continue its journey.
At around 10 a.m., both tugs arrived and secured lines to the “PVT Azura.” The tanker was then turned around and towed back to Kiel by noon. This incident is noteworthy due to the tanker’s recent port of call; it last docked at Svetly, a port in Russia near Kaliningrad, which subjects it to various international sanctions. While the “PVT Azura” was allowed to traverse the canal, it was prohibited from docking at any port.
Fortunately, the tanker did not sustain any damage during the incident, nor did it collide with other vessels. After repairs were initiated, the tanker was moored at Kiel Holtenau roads, positioned at 54° 23′ N, 10° 10′ E. As of the afternoon of the incident, repairs were still in progress. The “PVT Azura” is owned by Petrovietnam Transportation, a state-owned shipping company based in Saigon. This company has garnered attention due to allegations of violating sanctions linked to oil shipments from Russia, Iran, and Venezuela.
Medical Emergency Leads to Fatality on Vessel
A tragic incident unfolded on September 10, 2013, when the East London National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) was alerted by the Transnet National Ports Authority regarding a medical emergency aboard the bulk carrier “Mid Fortune.” The vessel, transporting palm oil from Singapore to Togo, reported that a 45-year-old Indian crew member had fallen unconscious and was running a high fever, with the cause of his condition unknown.
In response to the emergency, a Government Health EMS duty doctor provided guidance to the ship’s medic, advising an immediate diversion to the nearest port, East London. The NSRI launched the rescue boat “Spirit of Lotto” at 2 a.m. on September 11, accompanied by an EMS rescue paramedic. The rescue team rendezvoused with the “Mid Fortune” six nautical miles off East London.
Ship Allides with Kiel Canal Lock Following Recent Engine Failure
Upon reaching the vessel, rescuers boarded to assess the situation, only to discover that the crew member had unfortunately passed away. The cause of death remains unknown at this time. Following the recovery, the body was transferred to the rescue craft and taken to port, where it was handed over to the Forensic Pathology Services for further investigation.
