The bulk carrier Canga Star, sailing under the flag of San Marino, temporarily lost control while transiting the Strait of Gibraltar on March 23 en route to Huelva, Spain. No injuries or environmental pollution were reported.
The incident occurred within the Tarifa Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS), approximately 2.7 nautical miles off the coast. Spain’s MRCC Tarifa responded promptly, dispatching the vessel Punta Mayor to monitor and assist while repairs were carried out onboard.
At the same time, navigational safety warnings were issued to nearby vessels, advising increased vigilance in order to reduce the risk of collision in the busy shipping lane.
After several hours of onboard work, the crew successfully restored propulsion and steering. The vessel was subsequently cleared to continue its voyage under its own power, without the need for towing or further external assistance.
The Canga Star, built in 2011, has a deadweight of approximately 8,920 tons, a length of 127.1 meters, and a beam of 18.2 meters.
Although the incident ended without serious consequences, it highlights the importance of rapid response and strict navigational safety measures in one of the world’s most congested maritime corridors.
