WAN HAI 503

General information

Course/Position

Latest news

Wreck arrived atJebel Ali anchorage

The 'Wan Hai 503' arrived at the anchorage off the Jebel Ali port on Sep 11. The vessel has been granted approval by DP World and the Dubai Ports Authority to berth as a port of refuge, ending a long effort to find a port to accept the heavily fire-damaged hulk. A salvage team boarded the vessel when it reached the Gulf of Oman after a nearly 1,800 nautical mile tow from the position off India and Sri Lanka, where the vessel was held offshore after the fire started on June 9. The inspection team took measurements of the cargo holds and compartments, and the monitoring showed no signs of smoke or further container displacement. The assessments indicated that the vessel’s stability and structural integrity were secure, with no immediate risks identified. The wreck was expected to undergo further inspections and complete the requirements of the authorities so that it can be berthed. The container inspection and unloading operations were expected to begin in October.

Gutted container ship permitted to enter Jebel Ali

DP World and the Dubai Port Authority have granted approval for the 'Wan Hai 503' to berth at a port of refuge in Jebel Ali and it was expected to arrive in port under tow on Sep 11. Preliminary assessments indicated that the vessel’s stability and structural integrity were secure, with no immediate risks identified. Upon arrival, all inspections and procedures were to be conducted in accordance with the requirements of the relevant authorities. On Sep 10, as the vessel approached the UAE through the Strait of Hormuz, salvors boarded the 'Wan Hai 503' and said there no signs of smoke. Container inspection and offloading was expected to start in October. Containers and cargo in the forward part of the vessel have suffered extensive damage in the fire. Boxes located at the stern to the rear of the accommodation block have suffered relatively little damage.

Wreck under tow to Jebel Ali

The 'Wan Hai 503' was being towed to Jebel Ali with an ETA as of Sep 10, weather permitting. Discussions between local authorities and vessel owners on berthing approval were ongoing. The stability and safety requirements were met, and the tow was being closely monitored for a secure arrival. As of Sep 5, the vessel was located 177 nautical miles off Colombo, close to the Indian EEZ boundary. There were no visible flames, but minor smouldering was still observed.