Two general cargoships have been damaged in a head-on clash in the Welland Canal in Canada.
Video footage shows neither vessel able to take enough evasive action before the bow of the 14,000-dwt Florence Spirit (built 2004) is forced under that of the 12,700-dwt Alanis (built 2010) at what looks like full speed in a screech of metal on Saturday.
A horn can be heard being blasted in desperation, as well as plenty of swearing from the shore.
Both ships then drift to the side of the canal before separating. Damaged was caused to both starboard sides.
The Alanis, operated by McKeil Marine of Canada, was carrying wind turbine parts, while Rambow Reederei's Florence Spirit was hauling coal.
Both vessels have clean port state records going back to 2012 and 2010 respectively.
Rambow told TradeWinds the incident was still under investigation and it was not able to comment. McKeil Marine has also been contacted.
'Rare' incident
The St Lawrence Seaway Management Corp said no cause had been established for the incident, according to the CBC.
The Canadian agency added: "It’s a routine passage. It’s an area that is common. Obviously, as witnessed by the public, there was an unfortunate incident that the two vessels collided."
The authority also said the clash was rare.
No injuries or pollution were reported.
Skuld insures the Florence Spirit, while the Shipowners' Club covers the Alanis.
Ontario's Welland Canal connects Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.
