Coal Ship Runs Aground Richards Bay

Smart Shipwreck off Alkantstrand Richards Bay. Pic M Mersham

A large 230m ship called 'Smart' caring coal has run aground just north of the main surfing beach at Alkanstrand in Richards Bay. With the large swell yesterday the ship had already caused a beautiful A-frame peak. Maybe this is Richards Bays version of the Seli??

The 'Smart' broken in half.

The long ship has broken about two thirds down, and does not look like it is going to be easy to remove. Being in the bay we can only hope that the salvage guys get out there and remove all the fuel oil and other potential pollutants before Richards Bay lands up with a serious environmental disaster.

If all works out well there is potential for Richards Bay to add to its already great surf spots. I can already see some crackers forming on the next cyclone swell.

If you know any more details please post a comment below.

Coatesman