Significant storm damages Spirit of Tasmania ferry at Rauma Shipyard in Finland

Due to a significant storm, the full extent of damage to a passenger ferry that broke free from its dock at Rauma Shipyard has not yet been assessed. The vessel in question is the Spirit of Tasmania, a passenger-car ferry currently under construction by Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC). Strong winds persisted throughout the weekend, and it was not until the night between Saturday and Sunday that the ship was towed back to the outfitting dock with the assistance of four tugboats, according to RMC CEO Mika Nieminen.

Initial observations indicate that the external damage to the ship appears to be moderate; however, a comprehensive evaluation of other potential damages will only be possible early next week with the help of divers. Following that assessment, RMC will be able to gauge potential impacts on the construction schedule and any financial repercussions. Nieminen stated that the ship did not end up in the shallowest waters, and any grounding impacts were likely minimal, allowing the situation to be managed relatively well. Importantly, there were no reports of injuries, environmental damage, or leaks related to this incident.

Preparations had been made at the shipyard for strong winds the day before, including deploying additional mooring lines and having a standby team on site. A tugboat had also been called in. However, despite these measures, the storm escalated into a severe tempest in the area, and the vessel could not be kept at the dock, ultimately being pushed against the embankment on the lake’s shore. It is noteworthy that a historical record of storm conditions was set in Finnish maritime zones on Friday evening, with a recorded average wind speed of 33.5 meters per second at Kylmäpihlaja, Rauma.