Adrift Cargo Ship Taken in Tow

The Barbados-registered cargo vessel Skog, which was adrift off Orkney after encountering engine problems, is now under tow, the U.K. Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) reported.

The 99-meter cargo vessel, laden with a cargo of paper, reported that it was drifting without engine power and taking in water this morning, leading Shetland Coastguard to send a rescue helicopter to the scene. The Coastguard also requested the Stromness and Kirkwall RNLI all weather lifeboats.

MCA's emergency towing vessel ETV Herakles was also dispatched to assist the vessel, and an industry stand by vessel Vos Hera attended as well.

The disabled ship's 10 crew members remain on board and pumps were transferred on board the Skog by the Coastguard helicopter. The vessel has taken a tow line from the ETV Herakles and will be taken to port for repairs.

The vessel is currently in a position 6.5 nautical miles east, northeast from the island of Papa Westray in Orkney.

Conditions on scene are moderate to rough seas, the Coastguard said.