The cargo ship Ruby, known for carrying dangerous ammonium nitrate, is making headlines again as it seeks permission to dock at the Port of Klaipeda in Lithuania for essential repairs. The vessel, loaded with 20,000 tons of this highly volatile substance, has suffered damage to its rudder and propeller, prompting its initial refuge in Norway. Registered in Malta and managed from the UAE, the cargo ship Ruby is currently under class review by DNV as authorities explore viable repair options.
Ammonium nitrate is notorious for its explosive potential, having been linked to the catastrophic Beirut explosion four years ago. The cargo ship Ruby’s cargo was originally loaded in Russia and was destined for the Canary Islands before encountering mechanical issues. Norwegian authorities have been in discussions with Malta and DNV since discovering the ship’s damage. Details about the damage have not been publicly disclosed, but after the ship sought shelter from an Arctic storm in Norwegian waters, it was allowed to dock in Tromsø. However, once the media reported the hazardous cargo and the ship’s condition, Norway ordered its departure.
Currently, the cargo ship Ruby is anchored about two miles southeast of Vannøy, Norway. A 500-meter safety zone has been established around the vessel to ensure public safety. The Klaipeda State Seaport Authority has confirmed that the cargo ship Ruby has applied for permission to enter the port. The plan is to offload the ammonium nitrate before the vessel proceeds with repairs at a shipyard in Klaipeda. Lithuanian authorities are carefully evaluating the situation, with a decision expected soon.
The ship’s AIS signal indicates it is en route to Andenes, Norway, with an expected arrival on September 12. It remains uncertain whether this stop is for resupply or crew changes. Despite the repositioning, Norwegian authorities believe the cargo ship, which carries ammonium nitrate, poses no additional risk and continue to monitor the situation in coordination with Maltese authorities and DNV.
