Storm disrupts Rauma shipyard as Spirit of Tasmania collides with shoreline

Last night, a severe storm hit Rauma shipyard, causing significant disruption, including to the passenger ferry currently under construction. The vessel, Spirit of Tasmania, operated by Tasmania’s TT-Line, broke free from its moorings. According to Mika Nieminen, CEO of Rauma Marine Constructions, the ship was secured with storm ropes, but the winds were fierce enough to create significant movement, leading to the ropes and cables snapping.

As a result, the ship drifted and collided with the shoreline, where a tugboat, acting as a buffer, became trapped between the rocks and the ferry. Nieminen noted that the extent of damage to the ferry is still undefined, but it is certain that there are damages, and divers will assess the situation in daylight today and tomorrow. The tugboat has likely sustained serious damage, as well.

Visually, the ship appears to have numerous external scrapes, but fortunately, there were no injuries reported. Nieminen confirmed that thorough checks were conducted to ensure no personnel remained on board after the workplace closure at 6 PM. All gases and electricity were also shut off safely.

At present, the Spirit of Tasmania looks quite damaged, with dozens, if not hundreds, of broken gas and electrical pipes hanging precariously from its side. The ferry was originally scheduled for completion in the spring of next year, and Nieminen refrained from speculating on potential delays due to the incident.

With another storm front expected to arrive in Finland by Sunday, there is renewed concern that the ship might shift again if the wind direction changes. Multiple tugboats have been dispatched to the area and will arrive later today. The transfer of the vessel back to the dock will proceed when weather conditions permit, with expectations to minimize further damage.