Fire Emergency on ‘Windcat 34’ Averted Near Baltic 2 Wind Farm
On April 4, 2026, at around 9:25 a.m., the crew of the vessel ‘Windcat 34’ reported a fire in its engine room. The distress call was made using the internationally recognized VHF radio Channel 16. At the time of the incident, there were ten crew members on board, and the vessel was situated near the Baltic 2 offshore wind farm, east of Møn Island in Denmark and northwest of Rügen Island in Germany.
The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Bremen took swift action to manage the emergency. The lifeboat ‘Harro Koebke’ from the German Maritime Search and Rescue Service (DGzRS) in Sassnitz was dispatched, along with a patrol vessel from the German Federal Police named “Neustadt.” Another wind farm service vessel in the vicinity also joined the rescue efforts. To enhance the operation, both Danish and German Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopters were deployed. The Danish SAR helicopter and two German helicopters, one from the German Navy Air Service and another from NHC Northern Helicopter, provided aerial support.
Swift Actions by Crew and Rescue Teams Ensure Safety
While awaiting assistance, the crew of ‘Windcat 34‘ acted quickly to manage the fire. They established a watertight seal in the affected area and utilized onboard resources to bring the fire under control. Fortunately, the vessel remained maneuverable throughout the incident, thanks to the support from the second helicopter that remained in the area.
Anglo-Eastern Expands Offshore Managing Windcat’s Pioneering Hydrogen CSOVs
All ten individuals aboard the ‘Windcat 34’ were reported safe during the emergency. After the fire was contained, the vessel was escorted by the patrol boat “Neustadt” as it set course for Klintholm Port. The lifeboat and the three helicopters were subsequently released from the operation once it became clear that the situation was under control.
The MRCC Bremen later transferred coordination of ongoing measures to the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Karup. The ‘Windcat 34’ successfully docked at Klintholm at approximately 1 p.m., marking the end of a tense but ultimately successful emergency response operation.
This incident underscores the importance of prompt communication and effective emergency response in maritime operations. Thanks to the quick actions of the crew and the coordinated efforts of rescue teams, a potential disaster was averted, ensuring the safety of all individuals on board.
