Fugro vessel runs aground off Italy

Dutch surveyor Fugro has reported that one of its survey vessels has run aground off the Italian island of Elba.

Fugro’s 2003-built geophysical survey vessel Fugro Mercator ran aground on Saturday, March 22. The authorities were immediately notified and the Italian coastguard arrived on site to provide support and monitor the situation.

The 11-strong crew were evacuated and taken ashore. Fugro stated that a salvage operation is being prepared together with international experts and local officials.

It is unclear what led to the vessel running aground. The research vessel was performing survey work off the coast of Elba when it went looking for shelter due to deteriorating weather conditions.

The company added that it would be conducting a full review of the event. In a social media post, the Italian coast guard claimed that there was no pollution from the incident.