Rescue Operation Off Juist - Defect Caused Rudder Failure - Funeral Ship Runs Aground Off Juist After Rudder Failure Sparks Fire
The ship struck the sandbank in the afternoon, leaving seven passengers and one crew member stranded. Emergency teams evacuated them shortly after, though two additional crew members stayed on board to assist with recovery efforts.
The vessel only broke free the following day, helped by the rising tide, and returned to Norddeich. However, on Sunday morning, firefighters discovered a smouldering blaze in a wooden beam. Investigators later linked the fire to excessive strain on the engine while the ship was stuck, causing heat to build up. Crews quickly extinguished the flames, and no injuries were reported.
Authorities have since imposed an operating ban on the ship. Repairs to fix the steering failure will be inspected before the vessel is allowed back in service.
The grounding and subsequent fire have left the funeral ship out of service for now. White Star Line must complete repairs and pass safety checks before operations can resume. The cause of the steering defect remains under investigation.
