Yantian Express: The Fire Primarily Contained

The fire has been primarily contained. Three salvage tugs are currently providing assistance to Yantian Express, which suffered a cargo fire on 3 January in the Atlantic.

Another ocean-going tug is also on its way to further assist the operations, said a press release from Ocean Network Express (ONE). The Hapag-Lloyd containership is alliance partner of ONE.

"Unfortunately, we are unable to provide you the possible port of refuge and estimated time of arrival at this moment. Details will be advised once the information has been determined," an advisory to customers said.

"At this time, it is not possible to make a precise estimate of any damage to Yantian Express or its cargo. Ocean Network Express is in close cooperation with all relevant authorities and will continue to update you as this situation progresses," it said.

Import customs filings should be delayed until the date and arrival port have been determined. If import customs filings have been completed, customers are advised to investigate with their customs brokers to determine the appropriate course of action.
 
The fire, which spread to other containers, was brought under control by 10 January and operations to started to tow the vessel some 800 nm back to the Port of Halifax, Canada.

Meanwhile a note from Hapag-Lloyd said: "The salvage operations show continuous progress. The fire is widely contained and meanwhile the ocean-going tug “Union Sovereign” has arrived at the vessels position on January 15, 2019 to further assist the operations. Another ocean-going tug is on its way."