In its latest update on the ill-fated Felicity Ace, vessel managers MOL Ship Management Singapore have confirmed that there is no oil leakage, and the stability of the vessel remains stable.
Two large tugs despatched from Gibraltar are currently spraying the vessel with water to achieve hull and boundary cooling. They will also help control the position of the car carrier prior to inspection by the initial salvage team already on site.
“When conditions are safe, the salvage team will board the Felicity Ace for an initial assessment of future salvage plans,” according to a statement released yesterday.
Two salvage craft with additional firefighting and towing capability are on their way – one of which was scheduled to arrive today (February 23) while the second is due on February 26.
The Panamanian-flagged roro was heading for the Port of Davisville in Rhode Island when it ran into trouble south of the Azores island of Faial.
The loss of the approximately 4 000 cars on board – belonging to Volkswagen Group brands VW, Porsche, Audi, and Lamborghini - is expected to generate at least $155 million in losses for Volkswagen, according to risk analyst Russell Group.
