Barge Arla lifted from Lahti harbor after partially sinking in July

A 100-year-old barge, the Arla, which has been in restaurant service, was lifted from the Lahti harbor on Wednesday. The vessel took on water and partially sank earlier in July. Panu Viljanen, the CEO of Casseli Restaurants, was present to oversee the raising of the barge. He suspects that the structure of the aging vessel likely failed due to natural causes.

” divers have noted that there might be some kind of hole in the ship,” Viljanen explained. “However, after it’s raised, we will have a better view of the damage. Some part of the old vessel has deteriorated.”

The barge sank overnight, so there were no people onboard at the time of the incident. It also lacked an engine, meaning no harmful substances were released into the environment. Authorities cordoned off the sinking area with barriers due to potential leaks.

Following the lifting operation, the Arla will be transported to a nearby yard once it is sufficiently emptied of water. Viljanen is uncertain about the barge’s final destination. “It’s possible that someone will restore this vessel. We are also considering other solutions, but it’s unlikely that the barge will return to Lahti’s passenger harbor.”

The cost of the lifting operation is estimated by Viljanen to exceed 10,000 euros.