A cargo ship that ran aground off the coast of Newfoundland on February 15, 2025, has been prompting an ongoing Canadian Coast Guard response to assess environmental risks and salvage the vessel.
The MSC Baltic III, a cargo ship, ran aground in Wild Cove near Lark Harbour, Newfoundland, on February 15, 2025, after losing power in unfavorable weather. All 20 crew members were safely rescued by helicopter. Since then, the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) has been actively monitoring the situation, conducting aerial and shoreline assessments, and coordinating response efforts.
No pollution has been observed so far, though the vessel remains a concern due to the presence of approximately 1.7 million liters of heavy fuel and marine gas oil onboard.
Efforts to assess and salvage the vessel have been hindered by sea conditions. The salvage team confirmed that the MSC Baltic III has settled on the seabed, with significant breaches in the hull and a deformation observed.
A dive team reported that 75% of the hull is resting on the seabed, and there is an oily water mixture in the engine room. The CCGS Jean Goodwill is on-site with spill response equipment, while additional vessels such as the CCGS Ann Harvey have provided assistance.
Authorities continue to work closely with the shipowner, who has been cooperative, to assess the cargo, which includes food, lumber, and paper supplies.
A drone restriction and emergency safety zone have been established around the site, with ongoing updates as conditions evolve.
