In our previous article, the cargo ship Ruby had notably requested permission to dock at the port of Klaipeda in Lithuania.
The MV Ruby, a cargo ship laden with 20,000 tonnes of potentially explosive cargo, specifically ammonium nitrate, is set to dock at the Port of Great Yarmouth on Monday, October 28. This decision comes after weeks of intense scrutiny and refusals from several ports regarding the hazardous nature of its cargo, which exceeds the quantity involved in the catastrophic Beirut explosion of 2020 by more than seven times.
The vessel originally departed from Kandalaksha, Russia, in late August but suffered damage to its hull and propeller shortly after setting sail due to adverse weather conditions. In search of necessary repairs, the Ruby first attempted to dock in Tromso, Norway, but was turned away amid growing media speculation about the risks associated with its explosive cargo. Attempts to secure a safe harbor in Lithuania also proved unsuccessful, resulting in the ship anchoring off Margate, UK, while waiting for arrangements in Great Yarmouth.
According to Peel Ports Group, the port operator, the MV Ruby will dock at Great Yarmouth to facilitate the transfer of its cargo, allowing for essential repairs. He emphasized that the port staff is well-equipped to handle hazardous materials and complies with stringent UK safety regulations.
The UK government has approved the decision to allow the Ruby into port, clarifying that the vessel is not Russian-owned and that ammonium nitrate is not a sanctioned commodity.
Local authorities and Peel Ports are committed to ensuring that the cargo transfer proceeds safely. Following this operation, both the MV Ruby and the receiving vessel will depart from Great Yarmouth. This operation underscores the significance of maintaining safe and efficient maritime commerce, even amid challenges posed by hazardous materials.
