Steering Issues Set Teekay Tanker Adrift

Published Dec 11, 2014 2:50 PM by The Maritime Executive

A Teekay tanker lost its steering and was left adrift off the coast of Nova Scotia, Canada on Tuesday, while on its way to New York.

There was no reported danger to the crew on the 2004-built Australian Spirit. Although the tanker is carrying 90,000 tonnes of crude oil, the local coast guard said there was no pollution. Rough weather caused gale force winds and four-meter waves that made repairs to the steering impossible.

The Australian Spirit still has power and engines, so two tugs were deployed to help steer the vessel safely head to the nearby Halifax port. Both tugs reportedly reached the ship by Wednesday afternoon. The Coast Guard vessel Earl Grey is also on site.

Teekay Corporation confirmed that the crew and cargo are safe. It has chartered both the tugs and is covering the costs of the operation.

Towing started on Thursday, but it was unclear how long repairs would take or where the ship would be berthed while that happens.