A bunkering vessel sustained material damage at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges earlier this week after containers fell overboard during loading operations, according to Ship & Bunker.
The incident took place on Tuesday afternoon at the quay of the Antwerp Gateway terminal, operated by DP World. Two vessels were caught up in the event: the container ship COSCO Hope and the bunker vessel Mati.
Containers Overboard, Oil Leak Quickly Contained
A DP World spokesperson confirmed to Ship & Bunker that four containers fell overboard and came to rest on the bunkering vessel. The damage was described as purely material, with no reported injuries.
A minor oil leak occurred on deck shortly after the containers landed on the Mati. According to the DP World spokesperson, the leak was “promptly contained and cleaned up.” The fallen containers have since been removed, and precautionary measures have been put in place.
DP World noted that the situation is being handled “in close coordination with the relevant authorities and agencies,” and that terminal operations have continued as normal.
Does This Matter to You?
Incidents involving bunkering vessels during simultaneous cargo operations highlight the physical risks that can arise in busy port environments where multiple activities run concurrently. Damage to a bunker barge — even when limited to material harm — can affect bunkering schedules, vessel turnaround times, and supply availability at one of Europe’s busiest and most strategically important ports.
The prompt containment of the oil leak is significant from an environmental and regulatory standpoint. Had the spill not been quickly managed, the consequences for the terminal and the vessels involved could have extended well beyond material repairs.
For those monitoring port operations, vessel scheduling, and fuel logistics in the ARA region, this serves as a reminder that cargo handling risks do not exist in isolation from bunkering activities taking place alongside.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
