28/07/2026
On 13 July 2026, a 19-metre, approximately 50-tonne motor yacht ran aground on the Lieps shoal in Wismar Bay and suffered water ingress. The DGzRS safely brought four people and a dog ashore.
With everyone safe, MCS took over the salvage phase.
The operation began with an on-site assessment of the yacht’s position, condition, and the risks surrounding the salvage. Once the safest approach had been defined, the vessel was secured and a containment boom was positioned around the hull.
Due to the highly sensitive habitat, the entire operation was carried out in close coordination with the relevant authorities and the water police. The surrounding nature reserve is home to one of the region’s largest mixed colonies of grey seals and harbour seals.
While the technical solution remained essential, environmental protection was a priority throughout the operation. Working with powerful equipment such as a specialist tug in a protected marine environment required careful planning, controlled movements, and continuous consideration of the surrounding ecosystem.
The next step required more than pulling power alone.
A specialist tug was brought to the scene, the towlines were carefully set, and all teams were coordinated for a controlled salvage. The yacht was freed from the shoal and taken safely under tow as the operation continued into the evening.
Twelve hours after MCS set out, the vessel was safely back alongside at the pier.
Successful marine salvage is built on assessment, preparation, coordination, and using the right equipment at the right moment. Even during complex maritime casualties, protecting the marine environment remains a priority.
From grounded to safely alongside.
12 hours. One coordinated operation. Problem solved.
Grounding BalticSea WismarBay TowingOperation EmergencyResponse ClaimsManagement MaritimeOperations MarineSurvey MarineProtection EnvironmentalProtection Yachting