Dutch cargo vessel heading to Kirkwall for repairs

February 7, 2016 at 10:15 pm

A Dutch cargo vessel is being towed to Kirkwall for repairs after an engine breakdown shortly after passing through the Pentland Firth on Saturday.

The Orkney Towage tug Einar was called to the assistance of the Schokland, which was drifting without power two miles off the south-west coast of Hoy late on Saturday afternoon.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency emergency towing vessel Herakles and the Longhope Lifeboat stood by while a line was put aboard the Schokland.

The Herakles then accompanied the Schokland and the Einar until they had passed through and were clear of the Pentland Firth.

Originally, it was planned to tow the Schokland to Aberdeen, but Aberdeen harbour was closed to shipping because of wind and sea conditions.

Brian Archibald, Orkney Islands Council’s harbourmaster and head of marine services, said: “There was a good, prompt response from all involved after the Schokland suffered an engine failure.

“The situation was discussed by the MCA in Shetland, the ship’s owners and agents, and OIC Marine Services, and it was decided that the Einar would undertake the tow, with the Herakles and Lifeboat on hand to provide additional assistance if required.”