A Cyprus Sea Lines container ship is safe after losing power and drifting off the coast of Japan.
The 5,047-teu Cyprus-flag box ship CSL Santa Maria (built 2005) lost power around 23 km off Shimane Prefecture off Japan’s north-west coast in heavy weather.
The casualty occurred around midnight local time on the 02 February.
The vessel is reported to have had a problem with its generator causing it to lose power.
It is reported to have been in danger of drifting onto the small island of Okinoshima in strong winds.
Japan’s Eighth Regional Coast Guard responded to the incident and its tugs brought the vessel under control. Japan Coast Guard emergency responders also boarded the vessel from a helicopter.
The CSL Santa Maria is understood to be under tow and heading for repair.
The vessel was sailing to China from the US when the ship lost power with around 2,000 containers on board.
It was crewed by 19 mostly Ukrainian seafarers.
No injuries or pollution was caused by the incident.
The vessels protection and indemnity cover is with the UK P&I Club.
Cyprus Sea Lines has been contacted for comment.
