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1 December 2000

FERRY AGROUND IN FLEETWOOD CHANNEL

Liverpool Coastguard was informed on 1 December 2000 that at 04:30 a.m. whilst departing Fleetwood, the 14-thousand-ton P&O ferry `European Pioneer' went aground in the Fleetwood Channel. There are a total of 87 people on board, none at risk, and will remain onboard.

The vessel has sustained no damage as far as can be ascertained at this time. There is no pollution from the ferry nor is any anticipated.


European Pioneer

The intention is for the vessel to refloat herself on the next tide. High water is at 14:12 and it is expected that the vessel will be afloat again between 11:30 and 11:45 this morning. The vessel will then clear the Fleetwood Channel and proceed to the Lune Deep area to carry out further checks prior to continuing her passage to Larne.

Weather conditions on scene are good with a south-southeast wind of force 4 to 5.

The MCA's Counter Pollution Branch has been informed, as has the Marine Accident Investigation Branch.

Apart from a change to the normal passage time to Larne, it is expected that the vessel will refloat and continue her passage after conduction further safety checks.

A spokesperson for P&O Ferries said the ship ran aground within minutes of leaving Fleetwood Harbour. An investigation into why the ship when aground is underway.