Three crewmembers sustained injuries after an explosion in the engine room onboard the containership MSC Rachele off the coast of France on June 21.
The explosion took place while the vessel was about 20 nautical miles south of Cape Cépet, enroute from Napoli, Italy to the port of Fos-sur-Mer.
The French Navy medevaced the three injured crewmembers for immediate medical treatment aboard the amphibious assault helicopter carrier Tonnerre.
The crew, including two reportedly in serious condition, have been transferred by helicopter to the Sainte-Anne army training hospital in Toulon.
What is more, a fire that was sparked by the explosion is under control, and no immediate threat exists in terms of pollution or maritime safety.
The vessel will be towed to the port of Fos-sur-Mer by commercial tugs chartered by the containership’s owner, as the weather in the area, current and forecast, is mild enough to consider towing operations in good conditions.
A support and assistance vessel Pionnier chartered by the Mediterranean Maritime Prefecture remains on scene to provide emergency towing if necessary.