A containership allided with the southern gate of Kiel-Holtenau lock at a considerable speed on late February 19, Kiel’s police department said in a statement.

The 1,008 TEU Akacia was unable to slow down in time and rammed into the gate at a speed of more than 20 km/h, Kieler Nachrichten reported.

Data provided by kielmonitor shows the 149-meter-long vessel is still in the same place in Kiel Canal as of February 20. It remains unknown when the ship will be moved from the site.

Authorities have launched an investigation into the allision which was allegedly caused by engine control failure. The ship’s hull reportedly breached and water ingress hampers the ongoing investigation.

No injuries were reported following the incident, however, damages are said to be considerable.

At the time of the incident, the Madeira-flagged vessel was en route from Bremerhaven to St. Petersburg, according to VesselsValue’s data.

The 2004-built Akacia is operated by Danz und Tietjens Schiffahrtsgruppe.

World Maritime News Staff