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Bunker Tanker Aground Off Nova Scotia

Arca 1
Credit: Canadian Coast Guard

Published Jan 9, 2017 12:53 AM by The Maritime Executive

A bunkering tanker ran aground off Little Pond, Nova Scotia, Canada, on Sunday morning after her main engine failed. 

The Canadian Coast Guard says the Arca 1’s six crew members have been rescued, and the hull of the tanker does not appear to be seriously damaged.
 
The unladen tanker was en route from Cap-aux-Meules to Sydney, Canada, on her way to Mexico and had 15 tons of fuel oil on board. 

Anne Miller, spokeswoman for the Canadian Coast Guard, said the tanker was heading into Sydney, as it had expected some mechanical difficulties.

So far, no pollution has been reported, but a storm has pushed the vessel closer to shore. 
 
Local authorities are monitoring the situation, and environmental response groups are now involved.

The tanker is operated by Mexican company Petroil Marine. Vessel Finder reports that the 53-meter (174-foot), 793 gross ton tanker was built in 1963 and currently sails under the Panama flag.