Source: Hapag-Lloyd

On 3 January, a fire broke out in one container on the deck of the Yantian Express and spread to additional containers. The crew’s initial efforts to put it out were hampered by bad weather.

Over the weekend weather conditions worsened and the fire grew more dangerous. The crew have been taken off the vessel as efforts to bring the blaze under control have failed.

Further developments of the situation on the Yantian Express are being monitored closely, and the firefighting efforts with the salvage tug are ongoing.

At this time, it is not possible to make a precise estimate of any damage to the Yantian Express or its cargo. Hapag-Lloyd remains in close cooperation with all relevant authorities

The vessel sails under a German flag in THE Alliance’s East Coast Loop 5 (EC5) service, which connects South-east Asia with the east coast of North America, and was on its way from Colombo to Halifax via the Suez Canal. Hapag-Lloyd said the ship was currently around 650 nautical miles off the coast of Canada.

Delmar will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to affected clients as events develop.

For additional information please contact your local Delmar representative.