Capesize Bulker Cape Falcon Aground Off Gladstone, Refloating Fails

Cape Falcon ran aground six nautical miles east of Port of Gladstone on September 18 while trying to anchor. The 182,066-tonne Liberian-flagged capesize bulker is still stuck there.

Two salvage attempts have failed. A first operation brought six support ships alongside; a second used 10 harbour tugs and moved the ship only slightly, according to gCaptain. Australian authorities say additional salvage options are being assessed.

No injuries or pollution have been reported. The ship is not blocking the main channel into Gladstone, though port operations have been affected by the ongoing response.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has opened an investigation. Investigators have ordered the ship's voyage data recorder preserved and will interview crew members and examine tracking data, weather records, and maintenance documentation once they can board. A preliminary report is expected in about two months, according to gCaptain. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority has also detained Cape Falcon under the Navigation Act pending a seaworthiness assessment.

Built in 2022, Cape Falcon measures about 292 metres in length and 45 metres wide. Gladstone is one of Australia's main bulk export ports, handling large volumes of coal, LNG and alumina.