The Port of Aberdeen witnessed a significant emergency response on Tuesday afternoon when a vessel began taking on water, prompting the swift deployment of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS). Crews worked for approximately six hours to manage the situation, underscoring the robust safety protocols in place at Scotland’s largest commercial port.
SFRS was alerted at approximately 1.50pm on Tuesday, responding to reports of a vessel in distress within the harbour facilities, and two fire crews were dispatched to the scene.
Upon arrival, firefighters initiated immediate measures to address the ingress of water. Specialist heavy-duty pumping equipment was deployed to remove water from the compromised boat, a standard procedure for mitigating such maritime emergencies. The operation involved the use of two dedicated pumping appliances, highlighting the scale of the resources committed to prevent further complications.
The Port of Aberdeen, rebranded in 2022, iserves as the main commercial port in the north east of Scotland and is recognised for its commitment to safety and operational efficiency. The port’s expansive infrastructure and strategic location necessitate a high level of preparedness for various incidents, including those involving vessels.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is equipped and trained to handle a diverse range of specialist incidents beyond structural fires, including water rescue and maritime operations. Their capacity to respond effectively to marine emergencies, such as a boat taking on water, is crucial for maintaining safety and preventing potential disruption in busy port environments. Their response capabilities are a key component of the wider safety framework that supports the continuous operation of major maritime hubs like Aberdeen.
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Crews remained on site for around six hours, diligently working to stabilise the vessel and ensure the safety of the harbour area. The operation was successfully concluded on Tuesday evening, with fire crews departing the Port of Aberdeen at 8.16pm, marking the resolution of the incident.
The vessel was branded with the URL of Intermara Marine, a Peterhead-based maritime serviecs firm that provide essels supporting offshore wind farm operations.
