The US registered car carrier “Honor” caught fire in the English Channel on February 24, while it was en route to Baltimore from Southampton, local media reports.
The ship’s firefighting systems were used to extinguish the fire and the cargo space was sealed. Meanwhile, the 21 crew are safe and still on board the vessel, continuing to monitor the cargo area.
The ship is reported to have full manoeuvrability and has turned back to Southampton following the fire, where it is planned to anchor to the south east of the Isle of Wight.
The UK Coastguard has stated that is monitoring the situation closely and the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service has been also notified of the incident.
Moreover, a Fire and Rescue Marine Response team will be airlifted on board the vessel by the UK Coastguard search and rescue helicopter based at Lee on Solent to further investigate the damage and determine the condition of the vessel in order to return to Southampton Port.
Furthermore, a pilot from Southampton Port and a MCA Marine Casualty Officer are due to be sent to assist the assessment process prior to the vessel being allowed to return to Southampton.
