Spirit of Tasmania breaks free from moorings during storm in Rauma, Finland

Last night, the Spirit of Tasmania, a passenger and vehicle ferry under construction at Rauma Marine Constructions in Finland, was struck by a powerful storm that caused it to break free from its moorings. The vessel was secured to the dock with storm ropes when strong winds shifted direction and struck the ferry’s side, leading to significant movement that ultimately caused the ropes and cables to snap.

As the ferry drifted, it collided with a nearby embankment. Caught between the embankment and the ferry was a tugboat that acted as a buffer. The extent of the damage to the ferry is still unclear, although the CEO of Rauma Marine Constructions, Mika Nieminen, has confirmed that there is likely to be significant damage and that external impacts on the ferry are evident.

There were no injuries reported from the incident, and precautionary measures had been taken to ensure that no workers were on board after the construction site was shut down at 6 PM. All gas and electrical systems on the vessel were also disconnected.

Current visuals of the ferry reveal numerous empty gas and electrical lines dangling from its side. The Spirit of Tasmania was initially scheduled for completion next spring, but Nieminen refrained from speculating on potential delays due to the accident.

As Finland braces for another storm expected to hit by Sunday, Nieminen expressed concern about the possibility of the ferry moving again if the wind shifts. To mitigate this risk, multiple tugboats have been dispatched to the area. The ferry’s return to its dock will be conducted once weather conditions permit.

The incident was first reported by Helsingin Sanomat.