Norwegian SAR helicopters evacuate the 23 Filipino crew from the drifting bulk carrier LMZ Pluto off the coast of Rørvik. Photo: VesselTracker.com
A dramatic rescue unfolded in the Norwegian Sea on March 24 when the bulk carrier LMZ Pluto, carrying a cargo of artificial fertilizer from Murmansk to Santa Marta, lost propulsion due to engine failure amid severe weather, VesselTracker.com reports.
T23 Filipino crew members sent out a distress call and requested evacuation.
Ship left adrift amid stormy seas
Two search-and-rescue helicopters from Ørlandet and Heirdunn swiftly lifted the entire crew from the vessel by 8:30 p.m. local time. They were transported to Værnes Airport near Trondheim, where police conducted ID and border checks.
Fortunately, no major injuries were reported.
By the morning of March 25, the LMZ Pluto remained adrift off Trondheim, west of Brønnøysund.
Norwegian authorities closely monitored the vessel to prevent environmental hazards or navigational risks until conditions improve for a salvage operation. The patrol vessel Jarl was dispatched to assist, but rough weather delayed immediate action.
Responsibility for salvaging the ship rests with its shipping company, in line with international maritime agreements.
This incident is the latest in a series of challenges for the LMZ Pluto, which has previously battled an onboard fire in 2018 that required CO₂ flooding of a hold storing rubber and cloth during a voyage from Antwerp to Martas.
The Norwegian authorities continue to monitor the drifting vessel, underscoring the risks faced by mariners navigating northern waters during storms.