RRS James Clark Ross Damaged in Dockside Collision

By J. Brock (SARTMA)

The Antarctic Research ship, RRS James Clark Ross, has been damaged while at dockside in the Falkland Islands. She was struck broadside by a tanker, Sentoras, as the later ship attempted to come alongside FIPASS. The Research Ship was struck by the bow of the Sentoras, which was at a right angle to the James Clark Ross, on her port side, causing extensive damage to her shell plating, hull, a cargo tender and a cabin.

The full extent of the damage is not yet known but a surveyor working for Lloyds who is presently scheduled to assess the damage in the near future.

The damage not only included the bow of the Sentoras and the port side of the James Clark Ross but also extended to FIPASS itself, which shook just after 0900 on Wednesday morning when the accident happened.

Due to the accident, the summer season for the ship is unknown. Also unknown at this time is the date when the James Clark Ross will leave the Falklands for repairs.