The container ship MSC Baltic III, which is currently grounded, has suffered more damage after facing severe weather in Cedar Cove, Newfoundland, earlier this month. This information comes from assessments by the Canadian Coast Guard and salvage teams.
The ship, which is 207 meters long, ran aground on February 15, 2025, after losing power during harsh winter weather near Wild Cove in the Bay of Islands. Recent inspections have revealed noticeable issues with the steel plates on both sides of the ship. Additionally, the rear part of the vessel has settled lower in the water, and some small salvage equipment aboard was found damaged during checks on December 7 and 8.
Fortunately, all 20 crew members were safely rescued by the Royal Canadian Air Force using a helicopter shortly after the ship went aground. The ship was transporting heavy fuel oil and marine gas oil, along with about 470 containers. Many of these containers were empty, while others held items such as food and lumber.
Since the incident, the Canadian Coast Guard has been overseeing efforts to respond to pollution and assist with salvage operations, collaborating closely with contracted salvors and MSC. Even though significant efforts have been made to remove fuel from the damaged tanks and offload hundreds of containers, as of September 25, 65 containers are still onboard, submerged below deck in water. These containers must be lifted and drained before they can be removed, a complex process that can only happen when the weather is safe for operations.
The recent storm has raised environmental concerns in the area. Weather permitting, surveys on the water and along the shoreline are ongoing in Cedar Cove and nearby beaches, where there has been an increase in oiled debris due to the severe weather. Cleanup efforts are in progress, but harsh sea conditions, strong winds, and storms have repeatedly disrupted work and led to further movement and deterioration of the hull.
Salvage crews have noted significant buckling in the hull plates and structural changes that continue to complicate response efforts. Initially, the hull showed major breaches and has settled on the seabed, making it impossible to safely refloat the vessel without extensive salvage work.
As winter storms continue to affect the region, the focus has shifted to stabilizing the vessel in its current position and preparing for safe salvage and pollution control operations when conditions improve. The Canadian Coast Guard has stated that updates will be provided if the vessel sustains any further damage.
An emergency safety zone remains established around the site to protect responders and the public. Regular aerial surveillance and drone surveys continue to monitor for pollution. Minor oil sightings, such as tar stains and small tar balls, have been periodically discovered on nearby beaches and have been cleaned up during the response efforts.