On 18 July, HM Coastguard received a report that a vessel ran aground on the Pentland Skerries approximately 5nm north east of Duncansby Head. The 89m cargo ship ‘Priscilla’, carrying six people onboard, did not report significant damage, while there is no sign of any pollution.
At first, two tugs and the Thurso RNLI Lifeboat are on scene, with a local tug and a more powerful tug attempting to refloat the vessel. However, the first attempts were unsuccessful, as the tugs did not refloat the vessel.
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Once clear, the Master of the vessel will conduct a stability assessment and confer with a MCA Surveyor before proceeding. It is hoped that the vessel will be safe enough to be escorted into Lyness, Hoy for further inspection, assessment and any temporary repairs.
In the latest update by HM Coastguard, the situation remains unchanged. No attempt has been made to move the vessel, while two tugs are on scene standing by.
The vessel remains stable and there are no signs of any major damage or any signs of pollution. The crew are safe and well. An update will be provided when the situation changes, the coastguard informed.
