Fast boat collides with patrol vessel Brimil in Vestmanna

A fast pleasure boat struck the side of the patrol and rescue ship Brimil at high speed during a boat festival in Vestmanna on Saturday afternoon, according to Faroese broadcaster Kringvarp Føroya.

Witnesses said the boat sailed into the side of Brimil with considerable speed, throwing some of the occupants out of the vessel. One person was transported to the national hospital by helicopter from Atlantic Airways, which was coincidentally in Vestmanna for a rescue exercise. Two ambulances were also dispatched, carrying other people from the pleasure boat to the hospital.

The incident was recorded by the police at 15:07. Police have since closed the case but are still investigating. “Interviews have been conducted,” said duty officer Paula Eikholm, who declined to provide details on the cause of the collision, whether alcohol was involved, how many people were on the fast boat, or who reported the incident. She said a statement may come later in the week.

Jørgen Joensen, the captain of Brimil, confirmed he saw the collision but declined to comment further. “We have no remarks on the matter,” he said, adding that he had submitted a report to the police and the Maritime Authority. He also said the crew of Brimil assisted in rescue efforts after the collision and that Brimil suffered no damage.

Hans Johannes á Brúgv, director of the Maritime Authority, said he has asked the police to investigate possible violations of the maritime safety law that the authority oversees. He declined to assess the seriousness of the incident until the investigation is complete.

Tags: Faroe Islands, maritime accident, police investigation