Shipping operations cease following a collision in Cuxhaven's harbor. - Collision leads to termination of operations at THW's site in Cuxhaven
In the outer harbour of Cuxhaven, Germany, on July 23, 2025, a collision occurred between the German-flagged oil tanker, Capella, and the Dutch-flagged offshore supply vessel, Coastal Legend. The incident resulted in hull damage to both vessels, with Coastal Legend experiencing a rupture in one of its fuel tanks, causing approximately 6,000 liters of marine diesel oil to spill into the harbour waters.
The emergency response was swift, with the German Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW), Cuxhaven Fire Department, Water Police, and the Central Command for Maritime Emergencies coordinating efforts. They deployed oil containment booms around the Coastal Legend, used skimmers and suction pumps to recover the spilled oil, and divers were sent underwater to seal the rupture in the Coastal Legend's hull. The bunker tanker Herta arrived on site to safely transfer the remaining fuel from Coastal Legend, preventing further leakage.
As of Friday afternoon, approximately 240 cubic meters of oil-water mixture have been removed from the harbour surface. This collected mixture is stored in tank trucks and on the tanker Herta for proper disposal. Cleanup efforts are complicated by oil having drifted beneath harbour structures, particularly under the Lübbertkai dock. The Central Command continues to monitor the situation, including aerial surveillance with a DO 228 aircraft to ensure ongoing containment and cleanup.
The city spokesperson emphasised that the bathers on the beaches of Cuxhaven were not at risk. Restricted activity around the affected areas, especially near Coastal Legend and Lübbertkai, continues while cleanup proceeds.
No injuries were reported on either vessel, and crews received support from the German Seaman’s Mission and Stella Maris after docking. An investigation into the cause of the collision has been launched by local authorities.
The exact amount of oil leaked is estimated to be between 6,000 to 12,000 liters. Water samples will be taken on Monday in the harbour basin of Cuxhaven. The oil barrier will remain in the harbour basin over the weekend. The damaged ship was able to leave its berth under its own power. The removed oil-water mixture was transported away.
No specific information about the cause of the ship collision was provided. THW personnel are still on site as of Friday afternoon. The collision resulted in a tear on the supply ship, causing several thousand liters of marine diesel to leak. The oil spill in the harbour basin has been contained, and oil spill measures have been completed. Elbe shipping traffic was not affected by the collision.
- The community policy in Cuxhaven, Germany, may need to address stricter regulations for oil tankers and offshore supply vessels operating in the harbour, given the recent collision between Capella and Coastal Legend that caused environmental damage.
- The environmental science community is closely monitoring the oil spill incident in Cuxhaven, as the impact on marine life and the local ecosystem is a significant concern, especially considering the estimated 6,000 to 12,000 liters of marine diesel oil spilled.
- As the incident underscores the risks posed by the oil-and-gas industry, finance and investment firms might reconsider their commitment to industries contributing to climate-change, given the potential financial and environmental repercussions.
- The environmental disaster in Cuxhaven serves as a major reminder for the industry to prioritize renewable energy solutions in their operations, as these sources offer a more sustainable alternative to oil, helping mitigate climate-change and protect our environment.
