One of Wan Hai's large containerships and a Chinese bulker collided in the Pear River area leaving two missing from the Chinese ship (Wan Hai file photo)

Authorities in Guangzhou, China, have launched a search and rescue operation for two missing seafarers after a small Chinese bulk carrier sank following a collision with the Wan Hai A17 containership (144,572 dwt) in the Pearl River Estuary on the evening of October 25.

According to Wan Hai Lines, the Wan Hai A17 immediately activated emergency procedures after the collision, including deploying lifebuoys, sending distress signals, and launching a rescue boat. The Guangzhou Maritime Safety Administration also initiated rescue efforts and temporarily suspended vessel traffic in the area.

The company stated that the containership was inbound when the 8,000-ton bulker Hai Li 5 lost power, collided with the Wan Hai A17, and sank shortly afterward.

The Wan Hai A17, one of the carrier’s largest vessels with a capacity of 13,100 TEU, was the tenth in a series built by Samsung Heavy Industries. Delivered in August 2024, the vessel series was awarded the “Smart Ship Notation” certification, enabling real-time monitoring and communication systems to ensure safe and efficient maritime operations.

The Wan Hai A17 at its naming ceremony in 2024 (Image: Wan Hai Line)

Chinese officials confirmed that 13 crewmembers had been rescued from the water, while two remained missing as search efforts continued. The Wan Hai A17 has been detained and anchored in the Lingding Channel within the Pearl River Estuary. All 23 crew members aboard the containership were reported safe and uninjured.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), as the vessel’s flag state, reported it had been notified of the accident and would conduct its own investigation in coordination with Chinese authorities.

_____________________________________________________________________________

Edited by: Cofast News Editorial Team (according to The Maritime Executive)

#CofastNetwork #CofastNews

#MaritimeAccident #WanHai #Rescue #Shipping #China