Stranded Container Ship Begins Journey To Greenock

The container ship that ran aground in the Highlands a fortnight ago is on its way to Greenock this afternoon.

A passage plan has been agreed by Hugh Shaw, the Secretary of State’s representative Maritime Salvage and Intervention covers the 150 nautical mile tow to Inchgreen, Greenock.

Mr Shaw said, “The tow will, where possible, take advantage of sheltered waters and will move through the Sound of Mull, Firth of Lorn, Sound of Jura and the North Channel before entering the Firth of Clyde.”

The tug Luca will be the towing vessel and the tug Afon Menai will be connected to the stern. The Forth Jouster will provide support for the operation.

Svitzer Salvage will have a team and salvage equipment, on board the ‘Lysblink Seaways’ for the duration of the tow.

The current temporary exclusion zone in Scallastle Bay will be cancelled but another will be put into place until she enters the Sound of Jura.

The Coastguard vessel MCA Hunter will provide safety cover between Scallastle Bay and the Firth of Lorn.

The Scottish Environment Group continues to monitor events and is supporting the work being done.