The cargo ship Guang Rong went adrift on 28 January in the stretch of sea between Marina di Carrara and the Marina di Massa pier in Italy.
Local news outlets report that the vessel was half loaded with marble debris when it went adrift likely due to strong winds and crashed against the Marina di Massa pier. Furthermore, the situation was complicated by a crane onboard that is used to move the marble debris, which probably contributed to unbalancing the vessel. Following the impact, part of the Marina di Massa pier collapsed and the area was inevitably closed off.
Furthermore, aboard the Guang Rong were thirteen crew members who fortunately were not injured and managed to get out of the ship. After the alarm was raised, the Port Authority Coast Guard of Marina di Carrara immediately responded. On site were firefighters, carabinieri, police, and 118 rescue vehicles.
On the morning of 29 January, the first operations to observe the damage and secure the wreck began. The Genoa Coast Guard’s Underwater Unit proceeded with a thorough inspection of the hull to assess the condition of the ship and establish the procedures necessary for its removal.
A warning has been issued to stay clear of the designated area and respect the safety barriers. The intervention is expected to be complex and may take several days to complete. Local authorities, along with experts are coordinating the operation to ensure it is carried out safely, minimizing risks to the marine environment and navigation.
Reports state that the ship had been stopped in 2023 by the Genoa Coast Guard, unveiling 12 deficiencies, 7 of which were serious.