The bulk carrier VTA Neptune, IMO 9168752, ran aground near Canh Duong village in the Chan May–Lang Co area of Vietnam on the evening of November 9, 2026.

All 20 crew members are safe, with no injuries reported. The vessel, approximately 150.5 metres long with a deadweight of 23,620 tonnes, was in ballast in Chan May Bay.

Strong winds caused the vessel to drag anchor

According to local authorities, the incident occurred at approximately 20:30 local time. Strong northeasterly winds and rough seas caused the vessel to drag anchor and drift towards shore.

Winds reportedly reached Beaufort force 6–7, with gusts of force 8–9. Despite using the main engine, the crew could not stop the drift.

The vessel grounded on a sandy seabed approximately 2.75 nautical miles southwest of the entrance buoy to the Chan May navigation channel, developing a slight list to port.

Hull inspection requested

Port authorities requested an inspection to assess the hull’s condition and check for potential fuel leaks.

The vessel carried 51.82 tonnes of diesel oil and 211.81 tonnes of fuel oil, totalling approximately 263.6 tonnes. This requires careful monitoring of the fuel tanks, but the presence of fuel does not itself indicate marine pollution.

No confirmed fuel leak was identified in the available reports.

Refloating plan required

The shipowner was asked to prepare a salvage and refloating plan. Adverse weather hampered access to the vessel and inspection work.

The timing of refloating and the extent of any damage remain undetermined. Further action will depend on inspection findings and weather conditions.