GMM Safety | 2024-10-07 | Case Incidents |

A small containership, CMA CGM Balboa, struck a pier at the Port of Barranquilla, Colombia, on October 2, 2024 morning due to a mechanical failure.

Per the local media, the incident occurred at 00:40 hours, when the ship became adrift and hit the terminal at the port’s small container facility.

The port authorities confirmed that no injuries or pollution were reported. A quick response team consisting of four tugboats was dispatched to assist the vessel, which was successfully transferred to a secure berth by 11:00 a.m.

The tug operators, the Colombian Maritime Authority, and the local harbormaster worked together to coordinate their operations.

The ship’s hull sustained major damage, with the ballast tanks filled with water, as expected in such a situation. A port official said the water flooding was confined to the tanks, limiting further damage to the vessel.

An inspection is underway to determine whether the ship will need to drydock in Barranquilla or if repairs can be completed at its next destination.

At the time of the accident, the CMA CGM Balboa was carrying over 2,700 tonnes of cargo. The ship remained moored at the pier on Thursday for further inspection.

The container ship, built in 2007 with a capacity of 28,000 dwt, has previously had operational issues, including mechanical flaws that resulted in engine shutdowns during inspections in 2023.

These difficulties were resolved before the vessel resumed its journey.

Reference: BairdMaritime