A capesize bulk carrier controlled by Japan's Doun Kisen has been badly damaged in a collision at the northern entrance to the Cannakale Strait near Gallipoli Turkey.
The 206,000-dwt Panama-flag Benitamou (built 2006) was hit in the midships by the 31,800-dwt general cargo ship Vanessa (built 2010) in thick fog, according to Turkey's Directorate General of Coastal Safety.
The Barbados-registered Vanessa is controlled by Greece's F.G.M Chartering.
Pictures of the casualty indicate that the Benitamou's hull has been breached while the Vanessa suffered damage to the forecastle.
The Benitamou is reported to have taken on water following the collision but is now safely at anchor.
According to reports both ships were fully laden at the time.
The Benitamou was heading for the Suez Canal enroute to China with a cargo of iron ore, according to AIS information.
Turkey's Directorate General of Coastal Safety said three tugs are onsite and responding to the casualty.
The Benitamou's P&I cover is placed with the Japan P&I Club and the Vanessa is entered with the London P&I Club.
No pollution or injuries are reported following the collision. The vessels will undergo safety inspection before being allowed to sail.
This is the second casualty incident involving a Doun bulk carrier this year.
The 49,549-dwt Crimson Polaris (built 2006) grounded and broke in two off the Port of Hachinohe in Japan earlier this year.
The vessel has been declared a constructive total loss and a wreck removal is underway.
