Ore Carrier, Boxship Collide in Taiwan’s Port of Kaohsiung

The very large ore carrier (VLOC) China Steel Innovator collided with the containership Ever Laden while it was maneuvering in Taiwan’s Port of Kaohsiung.

The Port of Kaohsiung Authority informed that the “slight collision”, which occurred on June 19, was due to China Steel Innovator being “hampered by draft”.

Two pilots were on board the VLOC at the time, and three tugboats were sent to assist the vessel. However, the pilots aboard China Steel Innovator had difficulty in altering course and dropped both anchors in an effort to stop the vessel, which was carrying ore from Australia’s Port of Hedland.

The actions failed to halt the ship completely and it collided with the containership Ever Laden, operated by Taiwan’s Evergreen Marine Corp, at wharf 79, at its starboard stern.

Port of Kaohsiung said that there were no reports of injuries and water pollution following the incident.

Taiwan’s Maritime and Port Bureau (MOTC) prevented the two vessels from sailing in order to conduct an investigation. AIS data from Marine Traffic shows that both ships are currently moored in Kaohsiung.