An Algerian tanker has been damaged in an accident involving a Corsica Linea ropax in Algiers.
Video footage shot at the port shows the bow of the 1,500-passenger Jean Nicoli (built 1998) hitting the stern of the berthed 5,100-dwt product carrier Tolga (built 2021) on 6 April.
Amid shouted warnings, the large ferry glances across the superstructure of the tanker with an audible crash, before reversing away from the other vessel.
Algerian media said the Jean Nicoli was manoeuvring in the port when the accident occurred.
No injuries or pollution were reported, but the tanker, owned by Algeria’s Naftal, sustained damage to the superstructure, including to a lifeboat. The ship remained seaworthy after the impact.
Naftal said inspections were carried out with the help of experts from Dutch shipbuilder Damen, which delivered the vessel last year from its Chinese shipyard.
A further hull inspection showed no damage.
The Port of Algiers has opened an investigation into the accident, while Corsica Linea has not commented.
Lost control?
Naftal reported that the ferry had apparently lost control in the dock.
The Jean Nicoli was reported to have suffered only slight damage and was allowed to continue on its route.
The Norwegian-built ropax was acquired in 2009 by French owner SNCM for $97.5m from Minoan Lines of Greece.
The vessel was taken over by Corsica Linea as part of SNCM's bankruptcy process in 2016.
The Tolga is mainly used as a bunkering vessel.
