The Norwegian Maritime Authority conducted a Port State Control (PSC) on board the ship NCL Salten in Orkanger on 27 May following the vessel’s towing off Byneset, where it had been lying since the grounding on 22 May.
Throughout the entire salvage operation on 27 May, the Norwegian Maritime Authority had a so-called action inspector on board to assist the Norwegian Coastal Administration, shipping company, class and salvage company. NCL Salten sails under the Cypriot flag. After the ship docked in Orkanger, the Directorate’s Port State Inspector went on board to carry out a port state control.
The inspection report shows the following findings/deficiencies:
- As a result of the grounding, the ship has suffered hull damage that makes it unseaworthy. The flag state of Cyprus must provide written confirmation that the ship can go to a repair shop for repairs. The conditions for sailing to a repair shop must be approved by the Norwegian Maritime Authority.
- The Bridge Navigational Watch Alarm System (BNWAS) was switched off both before and during the grounding. It must be repaired before the ship can sail.
- The ship’s ISM (safety management system) system was not in accordance with the requirements. This must be corrected within three months.
- The escape routes on the ship do not comply with the requirements. The hatch to the emergency exit from the engine room is too heavy and is difficult to open from the inside. Must be repaired within 14 days.
The Norwegian Maritime Authority has now completed its inspections and is now awaiting further plans for the ship, in dialogue with the shipping company and flag state.
