Crews Battling Blaze on APL Containership Off Vietnam

The Vietnamese Coast Guard and salvage teams are continuing to respond to a cargo fire onboard the 9,326 TEU containership APL Vancouver in the South China Sea off the coast of Vietnam.

Operator APL reported that the fire broke out in one of the cargo holds as the vessel was underway from Shekou, China to Singapore last Thursday, 31 January, at approximately 0430hrs.

All 24 crew members on board are reported safe. It was not immediately clear on Monday if some of the crew had been evacuated or if they remain on board fighting the fire.

The Vietnamese Coast Guard has been on scene fighting the fire, which has varied in intensity over the last four days, according to reports. Salvage vessels are also on scene providing assistance.

As of February 1, the ship was located approximately 4 nautical miles from Vung Ro Bay, Vietnam, according to the Vietnamese Coast Guard. 

“The operator is in continuous contact with the vessel’s Master and local authorities to coordinate all necessary actions to ensure the fire is safely and promptly extinguished,” APL said in an incident statement. “The situation is being closely monitored and relevant parties have been informed.”

The APL Vancouver was built in 2013 and is flagged in Singapore.