High winds and heavy seas forced the Norwegian Coast Guard to stand by and watch on Tuesday evening as an abandoned heavylift multipurpose (MPP) ship drifted towards the western Norwegian coast.

Maritime authorities said they were organising for an oil spill response but believed a tow could be attached before the 4,200-dwt Eemslift Hendrika (built 2015) grounded.

Owner Amasus Shipping and salvor Smit declined to comment on efforts to save the listing vessel after the rescue of its crew on Monday.