A Scorpio Tankers ship and a Knutsen OAS Shipping LNG carrier have been damaged in a collision off Spain.

Spain's transport, mobility, and urban planning ministry (MITMA) said the 39,000-dwt product tanker STI Pimlico (built 2013) was in collision with the 138,000-cbm Bilbao Knutsen (built 2004) about 2.5 miles off the port of Huelva at 0403 GMT on Friday.

MITMA tweeted that the harbour master's office had carried out an inspection of the two ships.

The ministry said "fortunately" there had only been material damage, and no pollution or injuries had been reported.

This was confirmed by a Helimer 207 helicopter flight at dawn.

The harbour master's office ruled out any danger of sinking or leaks.

An investigation has begun into how the accident occurred.

Dented in the stern

Photos released by MITMA show the Knutsen OAS gas ship with a dent to its port stern.

The accident happened in the anchorage area as the laden LNG carrier was leaving Enagas' Huelva LNG import terminal.

The STI Pimlico, which is entered with the Standard Club, was on the way into port.

The tanker suffered starboard damage and lost its starboard anchor’s flukes and crown.

Scorpio Tankers told TradeWinds that it is not commenting on the collision, while Knutsen OAS has been contacted for comment.

The LNG carrier is on long-term charter to Shell and is covered by insurer Skuld. The vessel was ordered for $209m in 2000.

The tanker cost $30m as a newbuilding in 2013.

Casualties

Scorpio tanker and Knutsen LNG carrier damaged in clash off Spain