The U.S.-flagged tanker Stena Immaculate was struck while at anchor by the 459-foot Portuguese-flagged containership M/V Solong at 0948 UTC off the east coast of the United Kingdom. No injuries were reported among the 23 crewmembers of the Stena Immaculate after all had been brought ashore from the site of the incident, where both ships were burning in the North Sea.
The Stena Immaculate is operated in the Tanker Security Program fleet under contract with American Maritime Officers and the Seafarers International Union through a joint venture between Crowley and Stena Bulk USA. The crew includes one engineering officer represented by the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association working under a pass-through agreement.
“We are incredibly grateful all crewmembers from the Stena Immaculate are safe, ashore and accounted for after this terrible incident,” said AMO National President Willie Barrere. “We’re going to continue working with all involved in the operation of the Immaculate and we will provide an update once more details are available.”
The tanker was carrying jet fuel when it was struck by the M/V Solong. Rescue helicopters and numerous support vessels were deployed to the scene. According to a report posted by the BBC, 36 mariners in total “across both crews” were evaluated, accounted for and safe. BBC sources provided conflicting information as to whether one mariner from the Solong was hospitalized.
Based on AIS data, the M/V Solong appeared to be traveling at approximately 16 knots when it allided with the Stena Immaculate at anchor.
The following statement was released by Crowley.
“At approximately 10 a.m. UTC/5 a.m. EST on March 10, 2025, while anchored off the North Sea coast near Hull, United Kingdom, the Crowley-managed tanker Stena Immaculate was struck by the container ship Solong.
“The Stena Immaculate sustained a ruptured cargo tank containing Jet-A1 fuel due to the allision. A fire occurred as a result of the allision, and fuel was reported released. The Stena Immaculate crew abandoned the vessel following multiple explosions onboard. All Crowley mariners are safe and fully accounted for.
“Crowley immediately initiated its emergency vessel response plan and is actively working with public agencies to contain the fire and secure the vessel. Our first priority is the safety of the people and environment. We will provide more updates as information becomes available.”
