A Tale of Perseverance and Expertise: The Modern Express Salvage Operation

 

Introduction

 

In the unpredictable world of maritime salvage operations, every moment counts. The story of the Panama-registered vessel, the "Modern Express," is a testament to the skill, determination, and collaborative efforts that define the maritime industry. Facing treacherous conditions in the Bay of Biscay, the Modern Express and her crew found themselves in the midst of a harrowing ordeal. In this blog, we delve into the dramatic events and the successful salvage operation that ultimately saved the day.

 

The Modern Express: Vital Statistics

 

Let's begin with some essential details about the Modern Express. This Roll-On/Roll-Off vehicle carrier, flagged under Panama, had a gross tonnage of 33,831, a deadweight of 10,454 tons, and measured 164 meters in length, 28 meters in breadth, with a draft of 8.72 meters. She was built in 2001, setting the stage for the dramatic events that unfolded on January 26, 2016.

 

Battling the Elements

 

On that fateful day, the Modern Express, tasked with transporting 3,600 tons of construction machinery and timber from Gabon to the French port of Le Havre, encountered a severe storm in the Bay of Biscay. Battered by heavy seas and towering swells, the vessel developed a perilous 40-degree list and lost engine power. In the face of imminent danger, the captain issued a distress signal, leading to the safe evacuation of the 22 crew members by Spanish search and rescue helicopters.

 

The French Response

 

As the Modern Express began drifting towards the French coast after the crew's evacuation, France took charge of coordinating the rescue operation. Dutch salvage company SMIT Salvage was brought on board to save the vessel from potential catastrophe. The French Navy dispatched the emergency tug Abeille Bourbon and the frigate FS Primauguet to the scene.

 

A Race Against Time

 

By Wednesday, the Modern Express was drifting at a speed of approximately 3 knots, situated 200 miles west of La Rochelle, France. Surveillance flights suggested that the vessel's list had increased to a daunting 50 degrees, hinting at possible water ingress or shifting cargo. Salvage teams attempted to attach a tow line to the Modern Express but had to abort the operation due to adverse conditions.

 

With every passing day, the situation became increasingly precarious. The vessel continued to drift perilously close to the French coast. The weather played a pivotal role, with strong winds and high seas hampering salvage efforts.

 

The Turning Point

 

Monday brought a glimmer of hope as the weather improved, and the vessel's drift slowed to 1 knot. Salvage teams from SMIT Salvage were airlifted back onto the ship, making their way to the bow and eventually connecting a tow line to the tug Centaurus. The critical moment had arrived. The Centaurus managed to turn the Modern Express around and initiate the towing operation.

 

The Road to Safety

 

The tense operation continued as the vessel was towed away from the French coast. Spanish authorities granted the Modern Express a place of refuge at the port of Bilbao, marking a significant milestone in the salvage efforts. The convoy reached Spanish waters, and the threat began to subside as French naval assets returned home.

 

The vessel reached the port of Bilbao on February 3, 2016, where it docked safely. A collective sigh of relief was felt throughout the maritime community.

 

The Role of Expertise

 

The success of the Modern Express salvage operation hinged on the expertise of the involved teams. Access to reliable information and stability calculations were paramount. DNV's Emergency Response Service (ERS™) played a crucial role by providing timely technical expertise, ensuring that the vessel had the stability to remain afloat.

 

A nine-step sequence, involving external pumps and the ship's tanks, was executed to right the vessel. The collaborative efforts of maritime professionals and their dedication to solving complex problems ensured a favorable outcome.

 

Conclusion

 

The Modern Express salvage operation is a testament to the maritime industry's resilience and the unwavering commitment of professionals who put their lives on the line to protect the environment and maritime assets. This successful rescue is a beacon of hope, highlighting the industry's ability to overcome adversity and safeguard our oceans and trade routes.

 

As the Modern Express sails back into service, it serves as a reminder of the maritime world's indomitable spirit and the power of expertise in the face of challenges. It stands as a testament to the dedication of those who brave the seas to keep global trade afloat.

 

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